Basketball Gets the Big League Treatment! India’s First-Ever Pro Circuit Announced

Image Source: The Economic Times

India has taken a historic step in sports development with the launch of its first-ever professional basketball league, a collaboration between the Basketball Federation of India (BFI) and ACG Sports Private Limited. The league will feature structured competitive formats in 5x5 and 3x3 categories for both men and women, aiming to establish a comprehensive professional ecosystem for basketball in India.

1. Transforming Basketball into a Mainstream Sport

The league is designed to shift basketball from a niche discipline to a mainstream pursuit, providing structured career opportunities for athletes.
Jeremy Loeliger, former CEO and Commissioner of Australia’s National Basketball League (NBL), has been appointed Director of ACG Sports, bringing global expertise to the league’s development.

2. High-Performance Training & Global Standards

ACG Sports will launch India’s first fully residential high-performance basketball academy within the year.
The academy will feature world-class facilities, attract top coaching talent from the U.S. and Australia, and offer comprehensive training programs for players, coaches, and referees.
The curriculum will integrate nutrition, mental wellness, and academic balance, ensuring holistic development for future basketball stars.

3. Long-Term Vision & Competitive Framework

The league aims to build momentum and global credibility, with a vision to win medals at the Asian Games and Olympics.

The League Council will oversee standards and operations, while nationwide scouting initiatives and athlete development programs will lay the foundation for a vibrant basketball culture in India.

Sources: MSN. The Hindu Business Line, First Post