1. What are your thoughts about the current basketball infrastructure and scene in India?
India has immense potential for basketball, but the infrastructure hasn’t kept up with the talent. We lack widespread access to quality courts, professional coaching, and structured leagues that can nurture players from a young age. While the passion for basketball is evident, especially among the youth, what’s missing is a professional ecosystem to bridge the gap between raw talent and competitive play. The Elite Pro Basketball League (EPBL) aims to address these gaps by providing a structured platform for players and creating an engaging experience for fans.
2. How did the EPBL concept come into being?
The concept of EPBL was born out of a desire to elevate Indian basketball to global standards. We saw how professional leagues like the NBA create opportunities for players and engage fans. India lacked such a professional structure for basketball, and we knew it was time to create one. EPBL is not just a league—it’s a movement to put Indian basketball on the map by giving athletes a professional stage to showcase their talent and inspiring young players to dream big.
3. How do you see the future of basketball in India?
The future of basketball in India is incredibly bright. The sport has a universal appeal—it’s fast-paced, dynamic, and inclusive. With the youth increasingly drawn to basketball through global exposure like the NBA, it’s only a matter of building the right ecosystem. Initiatives like EPBL, coupled with grassroots development and community engagement, will be critical in ensuring that basketball becomes a mainstream sport in India.
4. What is UBL, and how will it help in finding young talents?
UBL (Uprising Basketball League) is inspired by the NBA’s G League and serves as a developmental platform for Indian basketball. Its purpose is to allow more players to display their talent at a competitive level. By focusing on bridging the gap between collegiate and professional basketball, UBL provides young players with the exposure and training they need to progress into the Elite Pro Basketball League (EPBL). It’s about creating a sustainable pathway for the next generation of Indian basketball stars.
5. How will EPBL help regain basketball’s status as a mainstream sport in India?
EPBL is designed to reinvigorate basketball in India by offering a professional and world-class platform. The league focuses on creating high-quality competition, engaging storylines, and relatable heroes that fans can rally behind. While cricket dominates the market, basketball’s fast-paced nature and global appeal offer something unique. Through grassroots programs, fan engagement strategies, and a strong emphasis on storytelling, EPBL aims to bring basketball back into the mainstream and inspire a new generation of players and fans.
6. Will this league transform basketball into a steady income source for young talented players?
Yes, that’s one of the primary goals of EPBL. The league offers competitive salaries, performance incentives, and opportunities for brand endorsements, ensuring that players can earn a sustainable income. By creating a professional ecosystem, EPBL allows young athletes to focus entirely on their game without financial insecurity. This will not only attract more talent but also inspire confidence in pursuing basketball as a viable career.
7. How many teams are going to be there in the upcoming season?
The upcoming season will feature 16 teams, each representing a key region of India. This structure ensures that talent from across the country gets a platform to shine while giving fans a sense of regional pride and connection. With this multi-team approach, EPBL is committed to building a truly national basketball league that unites players and audiences alike.
