NBA to open academy in India early next year

“The NBA remains committed to growing the game in India, and the launch of NBA Academy India marks our most significant investment in basketball development in the market," said Brooks Meek, NBA Vice President (International Basketball Operations).

“This academy will provide the top male and female prospects in India with world-class coaching and training, as well as academic support and an emphasis on life skills," he added.

In January, the NBA will organise a national talent scout programme to identify the inaugural pool of 24 elite prospects who will receive scholarships and training at the academy.

“NBA Academy India will help us identify and develop elite homegrown prospects and shape the next generation of national players," said NBA India MD Yannick Colaco.

“Youth basketball players in India have had relatable figures to look up to in Sim Bhullar and Satnam Singh, and now NBA Academy India will give them a platform to prepare for the opportunity to develop into a professional-level prospect," he added.

NBA opened academies in Hangzhou, Jinan and Urumqi in China in October this year and will shortly launch its Global Academy at Basketball Australia's Centre of Excellence.