Hyderabad, June 17 (RAHNUMA): Telangana is set to witness a major boost in grassroots basketball with the launch of Telangana Junior Basketball League (TJBL), the state’s first professional league exclusively for young players. The tournament will begin on June 19 at the Kotla Vijayabhaskar Reddy Indoor Stadium, Yousufguda, and continue until June 28.
Organised by the Telangana Basketball Association (TBA), the league will feature Under-15 and Under-18 categories for boys and girls, providing a professional platform for young athletes to showcase their talent and gain competitive exposure.
Speaking about the initiative, TBA General Secretary A. Prudhvishwar Reddy said the league aims to identify and nurture talent at the grassroots level while creating a clear pathway for players to progress to state, national and international competitions. Association’s long-term vision is to transform Telangana into the “Basketball Capital of India”, he added.
The inaugural season will feature six city-based franchises — Hyderabad Hurricanes, Ranga Reddy Rulers, Nalgonda Ninjas, Vikarabad Predators, Warangal Wildfires and Medak Monsters.
TJBL has generated significant interest across the state, attracting nearly 3,000 registrations. Following a rigorous selection process, shortlisted players underwent a month-long intensive training camp in May.
The league also set a benchmark for junior sports tournaments, with the franchise auction generating a valuation of Rs.1.48 crore. Hyderabad Hurricanes emerged as the most expensive franchise, acquired by Prospero Group for Rs.33 lakh.
