​About NBL-Laos (Laos NBL)

National Basketball League -Laos—also referred to as NBL-Laos—is the nation’s first professional development basketball league, operated in partnership with the Laos basketball community and the NBL global network. We exist to elevate Laotian players, coaches, referees, and fans through a high-standard, TV-ready league hosted in the capital city.

Mission

To develop Laotian basketball talent and opportunity by delivering a professionally run league that blends international quality with a strong local identity, creates pathways to play abroad, and provides an exciting, family-friendly experience in Vientiane.

Vision

A thriving Laotian basketball ecosystem that is respected across Southeast Asia—where local players become regional stars, coaches and referees earn certifications and careers, and Vientiane is known as the home of professional basketball in Laos. Through NBL’s global pipelines, standout players from Laos advance to opportunities in the United States, Africa, the Caribbean, and the Solomon Islands.

2026 Inaugural Season — Key Facts for Fans

  • Start Date: Saturday, February 7, 2026

  • End Date: Sunday, March 29, 2026 (8 weeks)

  • City/Venue Model: All games in one central arena in Vientiane (festival-style weekends)

  • Teams: 6

  • Games: 10 regular-season games per team + playoffs

  • Game Days: Two games per team each week (Fri–Sat or Sat–Sun)

  • Rosters (max 10): 2 U.S. imports, 1 Naturalized player, 7 Local Laotian players​​​​​​​

Why this roster model?
It raises the level of play with experienced imports while reserving 70% of roster spots for local players, accelerating development and keeping the league authentically Laotian.

What Makes NBL-Laos Different

  • Centralized Experience: Every game in Vientiane—easy to attend, consistent production, and a true weekend basketball festival.

  • Player Pathways: Scouting and showcases connect Laotian standouts to NBL programs in the U.S., Africa, Caribbean, and Solomon Islands.

  • Professional Standards: FIBA-aligned rules, trained officials, medical coverage, and broadcast-quality streaming.

  • Community First: School visits, youth clinics, and affordable tickets to grow the next generation of fans and players.

How the League Works

  • Regular Season: Round-robin format; each club plays every opponent twice (home/away designation used for branding).

  • Standings & Tiebreakers: Win–loss record, head-to-head, point differential, then points scored.

  • Playoffs: Top 4 teams advance (Semifinals and Finals; best-of-3 series).

  • Awards: Season MVP, Defensive Player of the Year, Rising Star (top local U-23), Coach of the Year, All-NBL-Laos Team.

Player Pathway & Development

  • Global Scouting: Shared film rooms and databases across the NBL network ensure Laos talent is seen globally.

  • Invites & Exchanges: Selected players may be invited to NBL-US combines, preseason camps, or international tournaments.

  • Coach & Referee Education: Clinics and certifications delivered with NBL specialists and local partners.

  • Performance Support: Strength & conditioning templates, recovery guidance, and injury-prevention standards.

Fan Experience

  • Festival Weekends: Multiple games, music, emcee/host, contests, and local food vendors.

  • Family-Friendly Pricing: Accessible tickets and student sections.

  • Merchandise: Team and league apparel in-arena and online.

  • Broadcast & Highlights: Live streams and clips on New Era Sports TV and league socials.

Our Values

  • Integrity & Fair Play: Transparent rules, neutral operations, and respect for the game.

  • Development Over Hype: Real minutes for local players, real coaching, real improvement.

  • Safety & Care: Certified medical staff at every event and clear emergency protocols.

  • Community & Inclusion: Welcoming environment for all fans, volunteers, and partners.

  • Sustainability: Smart budgets and centralized logistics to ensure long-term success.

Community Programs

  • Youth Clinics: Pre-game sessions led by league players and coaches.

  • School Partnerships: Ticket bundles, assemblies, and halftime youth scrimmages.

  • Referee & Table-Crew Pathways: Training, on-court evaluations, and advancement opportunities.

  • Volunteer Program: Roles in game ops, media, fan services, and community outreach.

Frequently Asked (Fan) Questions

Is NBL-Laos a professional league?
Yes. It’s a professional development league with paid players, imports, and broadcast-ready operations.

Why are there imports?
Imports raise the overall standard, helping local players grow faster—while most roster spots remain Laotian.

Will there be a women’s league?
A women’s pathway is under evaluation; timing will be shared after Season 1 based on venue availability and sponsor interest.

How can I attend games?
The full season schedule and ticket info will be posted ahead of Opening Night. Expect weekend double-headers in Vientiane.

How can players try out?
Tryout and combine announcements will be posted on the website and social channels (see below).

Stay Connected

  • Website: www.laosnbl.com

  • Instagram: @laosnbl

  • Facebook: National Basketball League-Laos

  • Twitter/X: @laosnbl​​​​​​​