India has taken a historic step in basketball with the launch of the country’s first dedicated residential High Performance Centre (HPC) and the announcement of the India Basketball League (IBL), set to begin in 2026. The initiative comes through a landmark partnership between the Basketball Federation of India (BFI) and ACG Sports Pvt Ltd, aimed at developing world-class Indian basketball talent.
The HPC, located at the Lakshyan Academy in Bengaluru, is India’s first facility built entirely for elite basketball training. It is a fully residential centre that will operate year-round, providing players with world-class infrastructure and coaching. The facility includes three FIBA-standard courts, a modern strength and conditioning gym, and a 25-metre swimming pool. Advanced technology, including wearable sensors and AI-driven analytics, will track player performance, giving coaches detailed insights to improve training.
The HPC also focuses on the overall growth of players. It includes nutrition planning, physiotherapy, mental conditioning, classrooms for tactical learning, and spaces to develop personal brands. Players can access recording studios, a basketball-themed barbershop, and social spaces to build team culture and community connections. 
“The India Basketball League represents years of vision becoming reality,” said Aadhav Arjuna, President of BFI. “With the HPC operational and the league launching next year, we are setting new standards for Indian sport and opening doors for generations to come.”
Karan Singh, Managing Director of ACG, said, “To build a great league, you must first build great players. This centre is more than an investment in infrastructure—it is an investment in people, passion, and the future of Indian basketball.”
The IBL will serve as India’s first professional basketball platform, combining national talent with international coaching expertise. Technical Director Martin Clarke, along with coaches Scott Flemming and Sarah Galler, will guide players to compete at the highest level, including potential representation at international tournaments like the FIBA Asia Cup, Asian Games, and the Olympics.
The journey begins with the IBL Invitational Combine in Bengaluru from November 22 to 24, which will showcase top talent. Following this, regional try-outs will be held across India to ensure aspiring athletes from every state have a chance to join the league.
Jeremy Loeliger, IBL Commissioner, added, “The HPC and IBL are two pillars of a shared vision to create a sustainable, world-class basketball ecosystem in India. We are building foundations that will last generations and produce athletes who can become national heroes.”
Players interested in the All India regional try-outs can register online. This initiative marks a transformative milestone for Indian basketball, blending modern facilities, professional coaching, and a clear pathway from grassroots talent to international competition.
