Ho Chi Minh City – The Vietnam Professional Basketball League (VBA) officially tipped off its 11th season, VBA 11, on Sunday, March 31st, marking a significant milestone for the sport in Vietnam. The league unveiled plans for the 2026 season at an event held in Ho Chi Minh City, signaling a new chapter in its development after a decade of growth.
The VBA continues to employ a familiar 5×5 home-and-away format for the upcoming season, ensuring a competitive and geographically diverse league structure. Six teams will vie for the championship: Hanoi Buffaloes, Danang Dragons, Nha Trang Dolphins, Ho Chi Minh City Wings, Saigon Heat and Cantho Catfish. This consistent format, according to league officials, is designed to foster team development and maintain a compelling pace of competition.
Beyond the on-court action, the VBA is placing a strong emphasis on talent identification and development. The league announced the “Draft Combine Series 2026,” a comprehensive, four-phase program aimed at discovering and nurturing the next generation of Vietnamese basketball stars. This initiative underscores the VBA’s commitment to strengthening the foundation of the sport at the grassroots level.
The Draft Combine Series began with a scouting tour of universities in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, running from March 29th to April 3rd. The goal was to identify potential recruits, who will then progress to the “Rising Camp” from April 6th to 8th for intensive training. Following the camp, the “Combine Challenges” phase, held from April 9th to 11th, will feature individual tests and 3×3 matches to further evaluate the prospects. The series culminates with the VBA Rookie Draft on April 14th, where teams will select players to bolster their rosters for the new season.
This year’s launch also marks a significant media partnership for the VBA. The league has entered into a five-season agreement with FPT Play, which will serve as the official broadcaster for all VBA games from 2026 through 2030. FPT Play’s involvement extends beyond broadcasting, encompassing a broader strategy to expand the basketball ecosystem in Vietnam through various community and entertainment initiatives.
The partnership with FPT Play is intended to elevate the profile of Vietnamese basketball, reaching a wider audience and fostering greater engagement with fans. The league hopes this collaboration will not only enhance the viewing experience but also contribute to the overall growth and sustainability of the sport. The VBA’s theme for the 2026 season, “Inspiring A New Generation,” reflects this ambition.
For those unfamiliar with the VBA, the league was established in 2016 and has quickly become the premier professional basketball competition in Vietnam. It’s a crucial platform for showcasing the country’s top talent and attracting aspiring players. The league’s structure, while maintaining stability with the 5×5 format, is constantly evolving to improve the quality of play and fan experience.
The Draft Combine Series, in particular, represents a significant investment in the future of the league. By proactively identifying and developing young talent, the VBA aims to ensure a steady pipeline of skilled players who can compete at the highest level. The program’s multi-stage approach – scouting, intensive training, and competitive challenges – is designed to provide a comprehensive evaluation of each prospect’s potential.
The league’s commitment to a stable structure, coupled with its focus on talent development and expanded media coverage, positions the VBA for continued growth and success. The partnership with FPT Play is a key component of this strategy, providing the league with a powerful platform to reach a broader audience and build a stronger fan base.
Fans can expect a competitive and exciting season as the six teams battle for supremacy. The VBA 11 season promises to be a showcase of Vietnamese basketball talent, with the Draft Combine Series adding an extra layer of anticipation as teams look to discover the next generation of stars. The league’s continued development is a positive sign for the future of basketball in Vietnam, and the partnership with FPT Play is expected to play a crucial role in elevating the sport to new heights.
The next key date for VBA fans is April 14th, when the VBA Rookie Draft will take place. This event will provide a first look at the new talent joining the league and will shape the competitive landscape for the 2026 season. Stay tuned to official VBA channels and FPT Play for updates and coverage.
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