Bengaluru will host the FIBA Women's Basketball League Asia 2026 from 20 to 25 October at the Sree Kanteerava Indoor Stadium, Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister G. Parameshwara announced on Monday, 13 October 2026. The six-day championship will bring together six top women's basketball clubs from across Asia, marking a significant milestone for the city's ambitions as a sporting destination.

Teams and Tournament Format

The championship features Denso Iris of Japan, Cheongju KB Stars of South Korea, Sichuan Yuanda Meile of China, Akari Sparks of the Philippines, Cathay Life Tigers of Chinese Taipei, and Indian Railways — India's reigning national champions. Two matches will be held daily at 4 PM and 7 PM, all at Sree Kanteerava Indoor Stadium. Notably, each participating team will include two American players, and NBA players are also expected to feature, adding an extra dimension to the competition.

What the Government Said

Speaking at a press conference at Karnataka Olympic Bhavan, Deputy Chief Minister Parameshwara described the occasion as a proud moment for the state. 'Hosting the FIBA Women's Basketball League Asia 2026 is a proud moment for Karnataka and reflects our commitment to promoting sports and providing athletes with opportunities to compete at the highest level,' he said. He also confirmed that Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar has already pledged support for the event, with the government promising to back similar major sporting events going forward.

Bengaluru's Push as a Basketball Hub

The tournament is being organised by the Karnataka State Basketball Association (KSBA) under the aegis of the Basketball Federation of India (BFI), with support from Karnataka's Department of Youth Empowerment and Sports and FIBA. Parameshwara credited Dr K. Govindaraj, President of FIBA Asia and Secretary of KSBA, for securing the championship for Bengaluru. The city has previously hosted several invitational basketball tournaments, and officials say this event will further consolidate its status as a national and international basketball centre.

What It Means for Indian Basketball

The inclusion of Indian Railways in the line-up is seen as particularly significant. As India's national champions, the team will get a rare platform to measure themselves against some of Asia's strongest clubs. 'Normally, it is difficult for our teams to get the opportunity to play in international championships. This tournament gives Indian Railways that opportunity and also allows our players to gain exposure to the international level,' Parameshwara said. Officials also highlighted the event's potential to inspire young girls across Karnataka and India to take up basketball seriously, calling it a catalyst for the growth of women's basketball in the country.

Key Officials Present

The press conference was attended by FIBA Asia President Dr K. Govindaraj, KSBA President B. Dayananda, Youth Empowerment and Sports Department Principal Secretary Naveen Raj Singh, and Commissioner M.N. Anucheth. The Karnataka government expressed confidence that the six-day championship would deliver a memorable showcase of women's basketball excellence at the international level.