The Basketball Training Foundation has introduced a new Basketball Player Development Program aimed at nurturing young talents and creating a stronger, more sustainable basketball system in Nigeria.
The initiative, known as the Basketball Player Development Program, is designed to help young players master the fundamentals of the game while developing the discipline and life skills needed both on and off the court.
BTF founder Donald G. Mbaka said the programme will primarily target players between the ages of 13 and 18, with selected players under 21 also expected to participate. He described these years as an important stage in the development of athletes seeking to reach the elite level.
Training will cover essential areas such as dribbling, passing, shooting, rebounding and defence, alongside physical fitness, mental conditioning, discipline, teamwork and resilience.
Chidinma Queen Nwagwu, who heads Female Basketball at BTF, said the programme is focused on giving young players a strong foundation before they move into more competitive basketball environments.
The programme will be coordinated by the Basketball and Training School and will operate on a full time basis. Scholarship opportunities will also be available for talented players who may be unable to afford the required registration fees.
BTF is also working with grassroots academy coaches in Abuja as part of its broader development plans. The collaboration has contributed to the establishment of Abuja Bats for male players, Batina for female players and BATS.
The Abuja Bats male team has competed in the Abuja City Basketball League for five years and reached the final in 2025. Batina also made its debut in the Women’s City League last year.
Mbaka said the foundation’s objective goes beyond producing basketball players. He explained that BTF is working to create a sustainable pathway for young athletes while promoting discipline, excellence and community development through the sport.
The new programme is expected to provide young basketball players with structured training and opportunities to develop the skills needed to progress through the sport.
