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The NBA is planning to open several global basketball academies in order to strengthen the talent pool and improve the versatility of players from over the world, according to Adrian Wojnarowski and Jonathan Givony of The Vertical.
NBA Vice President of International Basketball Operations, Brooks Meeks, told The Vertical the league is figuring out contracts and locations for their new academies.
Wojnarowski and Givony said the first academies will be likely located in Africa, India, Australia, and China.
The prospects' age will vary between the 14 to 18 range. While the main objective is basketball, the program is designed to help players through a higher education as well.
The program will include college scholarship funds as well as life-and-skills training for those who don't choose to pursue a college education.
Prospects outside of the academy locations will be invited to Australia, where the program will be centered.
The NBA is working with coaches and scouts worldwide to search for talent to bring into the program. If the program succeeds, there will be more academies in different countries to follow suit.
Agents will be allowed to meet with players willing to make the leap to the pros during certain time windows.
The league is looking for ways to connect the NBA Development League as an option for players that aren’t yet eligible to enter the draft.
