Thanks to NBA, basketball set to shoot up in India

NBA globally have five training centres. The new academy will be launched in NCR. 

The elite training centre, that is set to be launched in New Delhi, will be, overall, the NBA's fifth training centre globally.

The basketball association, that will fully fund the training centre, has claimed that the Indian project is their most significant investment in the market.

"The NBA remains committed to growing the game in India, and the launch of NBA Academy India marks our most significant investment in basketball development in the market," NBA Vice President, International Basketball Operations, Brooks Meek told PTI.

"This academy will provide the top male and female prospects in India with world-class coaching and training, as well as academic support and an emphasis on life skills," he added.

NBA has announced its scouting programme that is due to begin later this month. It will identify the inaugural pool of 24 elite prospects who will receive scholarships and training at NBA Academy India.

The 24 prospects are expected to be selected by next February.

"NBA Academy India will help us identify and develop elite homegrown prospects and shape the next generation of national players," said NBA India MD, Yannick Colaco.

"Youth basketball players in India have had relatable figures to look up to in Sim Bhullar and Satnam Singh, and now NBA Academy India will give them a platform to prepare for the opportunity to develop into a professional-level prospect," he added.