Bengaluru to host FIBA Women’s Basketball League Asia from October 20 to 25

Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister G. Parameshwara (second from left) addresses a press conference during the announcement of the upcoming FIBA Women's Basketball League Asia 2026. | Photo Credit: ANI

The Karnataka government is committed to developing Bengaluru into a major national and international basketball hub and will extend all necessary support to promote the sport, Deputy Chief Minister G Parameshwara said on Monday.

Addressing a press conference at Karnataka Olympic Bhavan in Bengaluru, he announced that the city would host the FIBA Women’s Basketball League Asia 2026 from October 20 to 25 at Sree Kanteerava Indoor Stadium. The championship will feature six leading women’s basketball clubs from across Asia.

FIBA, originally derived from the French name Fédération Internationale de Basketball, is known in English as the International Basketball Federation.

The tournament is being organised by the Karnataka State Basketball Association (KSBA) under the aegis of the Basketball Federation of India (BFI), with support from the Karnataka government’s Department of Youth Empowerment and Sports and FIBA, a statement from the Minister’s office said.

“Hosting the FIBA Women’s Basketball League Asia 2026 is a proud moment for Karnataka and reflects our commitment to promoting sports and providing athletes with opportunities to compete at the highest level,” Parameshwara said.

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The participating teams are Denso Iris of Japan, Cheongju KB Stars of South Korea, Sichuan Yuanda Meile of China, Akari Sparks of the Philippines, Cathay Life Tigers of Chinese Taipei and Indian Railways, the reigning national champion, the statement said.

Highlighting the quality of the competition, Parameshwara said each team would feature two American players. NBA players would also be part of the championship, making it an exciting event for basketball fans and young players, he said.

All matches will be held at Sree Kanteerava Indoor Stadium, with two games scheduled daily at 4 p.m. and 7 p.m., the statement said.

Parameshwara said the championship would give young basketball players in Karnataka and across India an opportunity to watch leading international players in action and learn from their skills, techniques and competitive approach.

The tournament would also help promote women’s basketball in India, particularly in Karnataka, and inspire more young girls to take up the sport, he said. Highlighting Indian Railways’ participation, Parameshwara said the national champion would get a rare opportunity to compete against some of Asia’s strongest clubs.

“Normally, it is difficult for our teams to get the opportunity to play in international championships. This tournament gives Indian Railways that opportunity and also allows our players to gain exposure at the international level,” he said.