The NBA has announced the removal of Rwanda's army team, APR, from the Basketball Africa League following US sanctions imposed in March. The sanctions were a response to allegations of the Rwandan army's involvement in the conflict in the Democratic Republic of Congo, which has raised concerns among US lawmakers about human rights abuses linked to the Rwandan government.
APR, which had previously performed well in the league, will not participate in the upcoming 2026 season. The NBA's decision comes after pressure from US senators who questioned the league's partnership with Rwanda amidst ongoing conflicts in the region.
Watch for potential shifts in the NBA's partnerships as they navigate the complexities of international relations and human rights concerns. The removal of APR may prompt other leagues to reassess their affiliations, especially in regions with ongoing conflicts.