(CNN) Former US President Barack Obama has joined NBA Africa as a strategic partner, the National Basketball Association announced on Tuesday. Obama "will help advance the league's social responsibility efforts across the continent, including programs and partnerships that support greater gender equality and economic inclusion," according to a news release from the NBA. He will also be a minority stakeholder in NBA Africa. According to the NBA's release , "NBA Africa is focused on expanding the NBA's presence in priority African markets, deepening the league's engagement with players and fans across the continent, and continuing to grow Africa's basketball ecosystem." Obama, who was the 44th US president, often played basketball in his youth and highlighted his love for the sport during his tenure in the White House.

Source: CNN July 28, 2021 02:15 UTC