Entering its 11th season, the VBA marks a new chapter in Vietnamese basketball - building a comprehensive ecosystem that integrates sports, entertainment, retail and community engagement. — VNA/VNS Photo

HÀ NỘI — The Việt Nam Professional Basketball League (VBA) will officially begin its 2026 season in May.

Entering its 11th season, the VBA marks a new chapter in Vietnamese basketball - building a comprehensive ecosystem that integrates sports, entertainment, retail and community engagement.

The league not only celebrates its ongoing work laying the foundations for professional basketball in Việt Nam but also embraces an expanded mission: raising the standard of Vietnamese basketball regionally and creating a sustainable base for national sports development.

Under the theme Where Talent Reaches Legendary Heights - Inspiring a New Generation, the 2026 season underscores the VBA’s role as a bridge between pioneering generations and emerging talent poised to make breakthroughs.

Trần Chu Sa, CEO of the VBA, said: “The 2026 season opens a new phase of development, positioning basketball as a central link between elite sport, modern entertainment and lasting community values.

"The VBA 2026 continues to unite professional clubs and deliver highly competitive experiences for fans across the country. With systematic investment and clear direction, the VBA is steadily realising its commitment to building a modern, sustainable sports ecosystem in Việt Nam.”

The 2026 season will retain the 5x5 home-and-away format and feature six professional teams: Hanoi Buffaloes, Danang Dragons, Nha Trang Dolphins, HCM City Wings, Saigon Heat and Cantho Catfish.

A major highlight is the launch of the Draft Combine Series 2026, which is the VBA’s largest athlete-selection programme to date. The series will unfold in four phases. The Scouting Tour will hold university events in Hà Nội and HCM City from March 29 to April 3.

The Rising Camp will provide intensive training from April 6 to April 8. The Combine Challenges will feature individual skill tests and 3x3 tournaments from April 9 to April 11. The VBA Rookie Draft will serve as the official selection event and will conclude on April 14.

Organisers expect the Draft Combine Series to open pathways for a new generation of players and help drive the future of Vietnamese basketball.

The VBA also announced a comprehensive strategic partnership with FPT Play. Under the agreement, FPT Play will produce and broadcast all matches for five consecutive seasons, from 2026 through 2030. — VNS