Bengaluru to Host FIBA Women's Basketball League Asia 2026
Bengaluru is set to host the FIBA Women's Basketball League Asia 2026, featuring top clubs from Japan, China, South Korea, and more.
Bengaluru is gearing up to become the epicenter of continental basketball as the city prepares to host the FIBA Women's Basketball League Asia 2026. From October 20 to 25, the city will welcome six of Asia's premier women's basketball clubs, bringing elite international competition directly to Indian fans.
A Grand Stage for Asian Basketball Excellence
Organized by the Karnataka State Basketball Association (KSBA) under the aegis of the Basketball Federation of India (BFI), the tournament has received significant backing from the Department of Youth Empowerment and Sports, Government of Karnataka. The event promises to showcase the highest level of talent in women's club basketball across the continent.
The tournament will feature a diverse lineup of champions, including:
- Denso Iris (Japan)
- Cheongju KB Stars (South Korea)
- Sichuan Yuanda Meile (China)
- Akari Sparks (Philippines)
- Cathay Life Tigers (Chinese Taipei)
- Indian Railways (India)
To further elevate the level of play, each participating team will include two import players from the United States, Australia, and Europe, ensuring a high-octane spectacle for the spectators.
Strengthening India's Sporting Footprint
Speaking at a press conference, G Parameshwara, Deputy Chief Minister of Karnataka, expressed his pride in the city's ability to host such a prestigious event. He noted that hosting the FIBA Women's Basketball League Asia 2026 reflects Karnataka's commitment to promoting sports and provides a vital platform for local athletes to witness world-class competition firsthand.
"Bengaluru has established itself as a major sporting destination, and an international competition of this stature will further strengthen the city's position on the global sporting map," the Deputy Chief Minister stated. He added that the event would serve as a massive inspiration for young women aspiring to reach the pinnacle of the sport.
A Platform for Rising Stars
K Govindaraj, President of FIBA Asia and Secretary of the KSBA, highlighted the significance of this tournament in showcasing the growing strength of women's basketball in the region. He emphasized that the competition is a vital opportunity to strengthen India's presence on the Asian basketball calendar.
For the local fans, the spotlight will be on Indian Railways. As India's national champions, the Railways team will face the daunting but exciting task of testing themselves against the continent's most successful clubs, backed by the roar of a home crowd.
Tournament Schedule and Venue
All the high-stakes matches will be held at the Sree Kanteerava Indoor Stadium. Fans can look forward to two intense matches every day, scheduled for 4:00 PM and 7:00 PM, ensuring a week of non-stop action as these six clubs battle for continental glory.