The National Basketball Association (NBA) has defended its ongoing business relationship with Rwanda after two U.S. senators called on the league to reconsider its partnership with the country over concerns related to the conflict in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo).

In a letter sent on November 3, 2026, NBA Deputy Commissioner Mark Tatum responded to Senators Jeff Merkley and Marsha Blackburn, explaining that the league follows U.S. government policy when making decisions about its international business activities.

The senators had questioned the NBA's continued relationship with Rwanda, raising allegations about the country's role in the conflict in eastern DR Congo. These are claims made by the lawmakers and remain disputed by Rwanda. The NBA's response focused on its business policy and how it handles changes in U.S. government decisions.

Tatum pointed to the withdrawal of Armée Patriotique Rwandaise (APR) Basketball Club from the 2026 Basketball Africa League (BAL) season following U.S. sanctions on the Rwanda Defence Force. He said APR would remain ineligible to compete in the BAL while the sanctions remain in effect.

The NBA Deputy Commissioner also said the league would continue adjusting its international activities as U.S. policy changes. He reaffirmed the NBA's mission to connect people through basketball around the world.

Despite the concerns raised by the senators, the NBA has not announced an end to its wider partnership with Rwanda. The relationship includes marketing activities and basketball development programmes connected to the Basketball Africa League. ESPN has reported that Rwanda pays between $6 million and $7 million annually for its partnership with the NBA.

For Rwanda, the continued partnership is an important development in its relationship with one of the world's biggest sports organisations. While the NBA has confirmed that it will follow U.S. policy and maintain restrictions affecting APR, it has not announced plans to end its broader cooperation with Rwanda.

While questions have been raised, Rwanda's wider partnership with the NBA remains in place.