BTF Launches Basketball Development Program for Youth

The Basketball Training Foundation (BTF) has introduced the Basketball Player Development Program (BPDP) aimed at developing young basketball talents in Nigeria. Founded by Donald G.

Mbaka, the program targets players aged 13 to 18, with occasional inclusion of those under 21, emphasizing the foundational years for elite development. Training will encompass essential basketball skills such as dribbling, passing, shooting, rebounding, and defense, along with physical fitness, mental conditioning, discipline, teamwork, and resilience.

Chidinma Queen Nwagwu, Head of Female Basketball at BTF, stated that the program aims to ensure players are well-prepared before advancing to competitive levels. The BPDP will be coordinated by the Basketball and Training School (BATS) and will offer full-time training, including scholarship slots for talented players unable to afford registration fees.

BTF is collaborating with grassroots academy coaches in Abuja, resulting in the formation of the Abuja Bats (male team) and Batina (female team), with the male team having reached the finals of the Abuja City Basketball League in 2025.