South Africa is not starting from a blank slate. The nation possesses a men’s and women’s professional league within the Basketball National League, has a club competing in the Basketball Africa League, and boasts a rapidly expanding youth base influenced by online basketball culture and concrete courts. The potential for talent has existed for years, and now it appears the system is beginning to evolve.
The path forward is clear yet challenging. Teams must register and battle through three city-level qualifiers to secure a spot in the National Final.
KwaZulu-Natal – 1 August – Durban University of Technology
Gauteng – 2 August – Emeris Sandton
Western Cape – 7 August – University of Cape Town
National Final
Johannesburg – 22 August
Champions in both the men’s and women’s divisions will receive a significant accolade: the opportunity to showcase the South African flag at the Red Bull Half Court World Final, set to take place in Manila, The Philippines, on 5 December 2026.
Registration is currently open; visit www.redbull.com/halfcourt. Teams comprising three to four players can register for a chance to represent South Africa. Assemble your squad, finalize your roster, and prepare for the competition.
Here are some basic guidelines: each participant must be 18 or older, at least three members must be residents of South Africa, and there will be no substitutes allowed on game day, so it’s important to bring your trusted teammates. Check-in begins 90 minutes prior to tip-off, so arrive in advance and ready to warm up.
Red Bull Half Court is open to the public free of charge. However, space is limited, so teams are encouraged to secure their entry as soon as possible.
