HO CHI MINH CITY — Vietnamese basketball has entered a new era as FPT Play and the Vietnam Basketball Association (VBA) announced a landmark five-year partnership to produce and broadcast all league matches from the 2026 season through 2030. The deal, officially signed on March 31, 2026, transforms the league’s media presence with high-definition production standards and interactive fan engagement, positioning the VBA as a cornerstone of FPT Play’s sports ecosystem alongside its recent acquisition of English Premier League broadcasting rights.

The partnership marks the first time a single broadcaster has secured exclusive rights to the VBA for five consecutive seasons, underscoring FPT Play’s commitment to growing Vietnamese sports. The 2026 season, the league’s 11th edition, kicks off in May with six teams competing in a home-and-away format: defending champions Hanoi Buffaloes, runners-up Nha Trang Dolphins, Danang Dragons, Ho Chi Minh City Wings, Saigon Heat, and Cantho Catfish.

Broadcast Upgrades and Fan Experience

FPT Play’s production standards for the VBA will include up to nine cameras per game, 4K resolution, and real-time interactive features such as live commentary, score predictions, and minigames. This represents a significant leap from previous broadcasts, which often relied on fewer cameras and lower production values.

“With a content rejuvenation strategy, basketball is one of FPT Play’s priorities. By partnering with VBA, we aim to build a sustainable basketball ecosystem and connect fans nationwide.”

Nguyen Van Khoa, General Director of FPT Group

The interactive features will allow viewers to engage with the games in real time, including participating in polls, predicting scores, and accessing behind-the-scenes content. FPT Play will as well integrate social media elements, such as live-streamed merchandise sales and community events, to deepen fan involvement.

A New Era for Vietnamese Basketball

The VBA’s partnership with FPT Play extends beyond broadcasting. The league is expanding its ecosystem to include entertainment, community outreach, and youth development initiatives. In 2026, the VBA will launch the Draft Combine Series, a four-phase event designed to scout and develop young talent. This initiative aims to create a pipeline for the next generation of Vietnamese basketball players, aligning with the league’s vision to elevate local talent to “legendary status.”

Community engagement is a key focus. The VBA is collaborating with the Central Committee of the Vietnam Student Union and Grab Vietnam to organize a nationwide summer basketball camp for students. The camp will promote physical fitness and healthy lifestyles among young people although fostering a love for the sport.

“VBA 2026 is not just a professional basketball season, but also opens a new phase where basketball becomes the central link between sports, entertainment, and community.”

Tran Chu Sa, CEO of the Vietnam Basketball Association

What Fans Can Expect in 2026

The 2026 VBA season will maintain the league’s established 5×5 home-and-away format, ensuring a competitive and balanced schedule. Each team will play 20 matches, with the top four teams qualifying for the playoffs. The season is expected to begin in May, with games broadcast live on FPT Play throughout Vietnam.

Fans can also seem forward to enhanced pre-game and post-game shows, player interviews, and analysis segments that will provide deeper insights into the league’s teams and athletes. The league’s social media presence will be bolstered, with content shared across platforms to engage a younger audience.

Broader Implications for Vietnamese Sports

The VBA-FPT Play partnership is part of a broader trend in Vietnam, where local sports leagues are partnering with major broadcasters to enhance their visibility and fan engagement. FPT Play has already secured rights to broadcast the English Premier League, NBA, and UFC in Vietnam, positioning itself as the go-to platform for sports content in the country.

For Vietnamese basketball, the deal represents a significant step forward. It not only improves the quality of broadcasts but also provides the league with the resources and infrastructure to grow the sport at all levels. With the 2026 season set to tip off in May, fans can expect a more immersive and engaging experience as the VBA enters this new chapter.

How to Watch

FPT Play subscribers will have access to all VBA games starting in May 2026. For those outside Vietnam, the league has not yet announced international streaming options, but the partnership aims to expand global reach in the coming years.

To stay updated on the VBA season, follow VBA’s official Facebook page and FPT Play’s official website for schedules, highlights, and behind-the-scenes content.

Key Takeaways

• Five-Year Deal: FPT Play will broadcast all VBA games from 2026 through 2030.
• Production Upgrades: Games will feature up to nine cameras, 4K resolution, and real-time interactive features.
• Youth Development: The 2026 Draft Combine Series will scout and develop young talent.
• Community Engagement: Partnerships with student unions and Grab Vietnam will promote basketball among youth.
• Season Start: The 2026 VBA season is set to begin in May.