ACG Jr. NBA 3v3 National Tournament Returns for 2026 with New Under-16 Format
Exciting Announcement for Young Basketball Players
On Wednesday, the National Basketball Association (NBA) and the Basketball Federation of India (BFI), which oversees basketball in India, revealed the return of the ACG Jr. NBA 3v3 National Tournament. This tournament is a nationwide, school-based competition for teams of boys and girls under the age of 16, featuring events in ten cities across the country, making it the largest school basketball tournament in India.
Tournament Details and Schedule
The 2026 ACG Jr. NBA 3v3 National Tournament, managed by the grassroots sports organization India On Track, will commence on September 24 in Ahmedabad. Following this, the tournament will visit Indore, Kochi, Delhi, Chennai, Kolkata, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Prayagraj, and Ludhiana. Schools in each zone can register their boys' and girls' teams for the respective city tournaments through the official event website.
The top two teams from each zone, along with one boys' All-Star team and one girls' All-Star team, will qualify for the National Finals in December 2026. Additional details regarding the remaining tournament stops and finals will be shared later.
Enhancing Player Development with New Age Classification
The 2026 program will transition from an under-14 to an under-16 age classification, aligning with the theme 'Where Stars Are Born.' This change aims to engage players at a more competitive level while ensuring equal opportunities for both genders. The new format will enhance the ACG Jr. NBA program's contribution to basketball development in India, preparing participants for their next growth phase.
The ACG Jr. NBA initiative focuses on teaching essential skills and values of basketball, positively impacting youth across the nation. Last year, the program involved over 8,000 players from 2,000 teams representing 900 schools, with more than 2,700 games played in ten cities. This initiative is part of the NBA's broader youth development strategy in India, which includes the NBA Basketball School, offering training programs for players aged 6-18 in 13 cities.
Engagement and Updates for Participants
Players, coaches, and families can stay updated on the 2026 ACG Jr. NBA program through the NBA's localized social media channels on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and X. Fans in India can also download the NBA App for the latest news, scores, stats, and schedules.
Leadership Insights on Grassroots Basketball Development
Sunny Malik, NBA India Country Head, stated, 'The ACG Jr. NBA program is fundamental to our grassroots basketball development in India. By moving to the under-16 category, we are establishing a more competitive link between grassroots participation and our player development pathway. Together with ACG, BFI, and Skechers, we are excited to continue building the largest school-based tournament in the country, providing a platform for young athletes to realize their potential.'
BFI President Aadhav Arjuna emphasized the importance of their collaboration with the NBA, stating, 'The ACG Jr. NBA program offers young players a unique opportunity to learn and compete while representing their schools. Transitioning to the under-16 format helps create a sustainable talent pipeline for basketball in India.'
Karan Singh, Managing Director of ACG, expressed his enthusiasm for the growth of basketball in India, highlighting the program's commitment to inclusivity and equal representation for all players. He noted, 'This tournament is truly where stars are born, and we are dedicated to fostering environments that empower the next generation both on and off the court.'
Rahul Vira, CEO and Country Manager of Skechers South Asia Pvt. Ltd., remarked that the shift to an under-16 format strengthens the competitive platform for young athletes, stating, 'Our partnership with the Jr. NBA allows us to engage with young players and support a thriving basketball ecosystem in India.'