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Chennai emerges as potential host for Indian Basketball League

  • Authored By: Sports Now
  • Updated Nov 11, 2026, 20:50 IST

Chennai's Nehru Indoor Stadium has been blocked for a 20-day period in January 2027, signaling that the city is being considered as a host venue for the upcoming Indian Basketball League.

Chennai emerges as potential host for Indian Basketball League

Chennai is poised to become a key destination for the inaugural Indian Basketball League (IBL), with reports indicating that the city is being lined up to host a portion of the professional competition. The development follows ongoing efforts by the Basketball Federation of India (BFI) to establish a formal pro league since Aadhav Arjuna assumed the presidency in July 2023.

While the BFI has previously confirmed that the league is in development, specific host cities have remained unannounced until now. Recent information suggests that Chennai is firmly in the frame to stage one of the league's legs, marking a significant step forward in the tournament's logistical planning.

Nehru Indoor Stadium earmarked for January 2027

The Nehru Indoor Stadium has emerged as the primary candidate to facilitate these matches. According to stadium authorities, the facility has been officially blocked for a duration of 20 days, beginning on January 20, 2027. This booking suggests that the venue is being prepared to accommodate the requirements of the professional basketball circuit early that year.

The reservation of the stadium for such an extended window aligns with the timeline for the league's rollout. Although official confirmation regarding the full schedule and the complete list of host cities is still pending from the federation, the activity at the Nehru Indoor Stadium provides the clearest indication yet of the league's operational roadmap. As the BFI continues to build the infrastructure for the IBL, the inclusion of Chennai would represent a major milestone in bringing professional basketball to a wider audience across India.