New Delhi [India]: The Basketball Federation of India (BFI), in collaboration with Captains Professional Basketball Pvt Ltd (CPBL), unveiled the Pro International Basketball League (INBL PRO U-25) at an exclusive press conference. This landmark league, designed to elevate Indian basketball, will commence on January 15, 2025, and will feature six teams competing for the championship.
Format and Schedule
- The league kicks off with daily matches, leading to the Final Four, scheduled to be held in Abu Dhabi in March 2025.
- A player auction on January 9, 2025, will showcase talent from both India and international basketball powerhouses like the USA, Australia, and New Zealand.
- Each team will include 12 players, with a blend of six Indian players under 25 and six international players. Additionally, three development players will be included for training purposes.
Leadership and Vision
Key stakeholders present at the launch included:
- Aadhav Arjuna (President, BFI)
- Kulvinder Singh Gill (Secretary General, BFI)
- Rupinder Brar (Founder and Chairman, INBL Pro)
- Abhishek Yash Tyagi (Founder and Co-Chairman, INBL Pro)
- Dushyant Khanna (Founder and Director, INBL Pro)
- Parveen Batish (CEO, INBL Pro)
The league aims to create a world-class platform for U-25 Indian players, blending local talent with global expertise. It will employ 12 international coaches alongside six Indian assistant coaches, ensuring high-quality training and player development.
Statements from Stakeholders
Aadhav Arjuna, President of BFI:
“The INBL PRO U-25 sets a new benchmark for basketball in India. By fusing international expertise with Indian talent, the league will raise the standards of the sport while creating opportunities for our youth.”
Kulvinder Singh Gill, Secretary General of BFI:
“This initiative will elevate Indian basketball by exposing young players to international competition and professional environments. It’s a pivotal step in preparing them for the global stage.”
Rupinder Brar, Founder and Chairman of INBL Pro:
“Our goal is to inspire the next generation of basketball players by offering them aspirational pathways. INBL Pro combines development, competition, and entertainment to promote the sport in India.”
Parveen Batish, CEO of INBL Pro:
“By integrating international players, coaches, and venues, the INBL PRO U-25 is not just about competition but about global exposure and long-term development of Indian talent.”
Targeting India’s Youth
With 50% of India’s 1.42 billion population under the age of 25, the league focuses on nurturing young talent, providing them with international exposure, and building a robust pipeline of professional players.
A Leap for Indian Basketball
The INBL PRO U-25 represents a transformative step for Indian basketball, combining development, entertainment, and international collaboration to elevate the sport on the global stage. As fans eagerly anticipate the first tip-off, the league promises to inspire and redefine basketball’s presence in India.