Kicking off India’s hoops revolution, InBL Pro U25 Season 1 had a historic opening at the Thyagaraj Sports Complex in New Delhi.
INBL PRO U25 Basketball League is poised to reshape the future of Indian sports with its emphasis on growth and international recognition for Indian Basketball players.
The league is set to showcase some of India’s brightest Basketball prospects. Sahaij Sekhon, Gurbaz Sandhu, Pranav Prince, Arvind Kumar, Kushal Singh, Harsh Dagar, Arvinder Singh and former NBA G-League player Princepal Singh will compete alongside former NBA player Lamar Patterson, as well as Jock Perry, Lachlan Barker, and Uche Dibiamaka.
“The InBL Pro Season 1 is a testament to the growth and potential of basketball in India,” said Aadhav Arjuna, President of the Basketball Federation of India, during the launch. He added, “We are creating the groundwork for the sport’s success by combining domestic athletes with foreign potential. In addition to showcasing India’s abilities on the international scene, this league will motivate the next generation.”
The six teams in the competition are the Gujarat Stallions, Delhi Dribblers, Mumbai Titans, Hyderabad Falcons, Chennai Heat, and Punjab Warriors. There are twelve players on each of the six teams, with an equal number of Indian and foreign competitors.
In order to further develop young players, the teams have the provision to add two mentor players (over 25) who can offer invaluable leadership and expertise on the court.
The round robin format will continue till February 24 and the top four teams will advance to the semi-finals on February 28, The final is to be held on March 1 at the prestigious Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi.
The Delhi Dribblers defeated the Mumbai Titans 93-85 in the season’s opening match. Rupinder Brar, the Chairman and Founder of the InBL Pro, announced the league’s opening.
He said, “The InBL Pro Season 1 is a transformative step for basketball in India. The Rapid League format ensures that every player gets a chance to contribute, fostering greater growth and engagement in the sport.”
Bollywood actors Rannvijay Singh and Disha Patani were present at the opening ceremony. Rannvijay Singh stated, “InBL Pro is set to take it to the next level in India. Basketball has always been a sport of energy and passion.”