A New Era for Youth Basketball in Singapore

This June, Singapore will transform into the basketball capital of Asia as it hosts the first-ever NBA Rising Stars Invitational. In an exciting partnership with Sport Singapore (SportSG) and the Singapore Tourism Board (STB), the National Basketball Association (NBA) is bringing a multi-year series of electrifying basketball events to the city-state. The highlight of this inaugural festival will be the NBA Rising Stars Invitational, a unique regional high-school basketball tournament featuring elite boys’ and girls’ teams from across the Asia-Pacific region. This landmark event promises to be a transformative experience for young athletes and basketball fans alike.

A Historic Basketball and Entertainment Festival

Running from June 25 to June 29 at the Kallang Alive Precinct, the NBA Rising Stars Invitational will captivate audiences with an unforgettable five-day competition. The tournament will kick off with a round-robin format, leading into thrilling semi-finals and finals. In addition to high-energy basketball action, the event will immerse participants in a variety of skill development programs, community engagement initiatives, and cultural exchange activities—truly a celebration of basketball and youth empowerment.

Unforgettable Experiences with NBA Legends

What sets this festival apart is its star-studded lineup of NBA and WNBA players, past and present, who will interact with fans through meet-and-greet sessions, basketball clinics, and community outreach. Fans can also enjoy live music performances, open basketball courts, and exclusive NBA memorabilia displays, including the coveted Larry O’Brien Trophy. This multi-dimensional event will be a must-attend for anyone passionate about basketball and entertainment.

Bringing Singapore’s Basketball Talent to the World Stage

In an effort to elevate local talent, Singapore will field two teams in each division, who will compete against the best youth teams from ten countries and territories in the region. By partnering with local basketball federations, the event also opens doors for young athletes to access elite training programs, NBA development camps, and showcases. This is not just a tournament; it’s an opportunity for Singapore’s rising basketball stars to shine on the global stage.

Elevating Basketball in Asia-Pacific: What’s at Stake?

Wayne Chang, Managing Director of NBA Asia, emphasized the significance of this event, stating, “Basketball is the second most-played sport among youth in Asia. The NBA Rising Stars Invitational is a critical part of our efforts to accelerate the growth of basketball in the region and provide a platform for young athletes to showcase their skills.”

SportSG’s CEO, Alan Goh, echoed this sentiment, highlighting the festival’s potential to unite Singapore’s basketball community and inspire future generations of athletes. Similarly, STB Chief Executive, Melissa Ow, underscored the importance of this event in reinforcing Singapore’s position as a premier destination for world-class sports events.

The NBA’s Long-Term Commitment to Asia

This partnership is a part of the NBA’s larger strategy to expand its reach and grow the sport in the Asia-Pacific region. Through programs like the Jr. NBA, NBA Basketball School, and Basketball Without Borders, the NBA has already made a substantial impact in the region, touching millions of young athletes. The opening of a regional office in Singapore in 2022 further demonstrates the league’s commitment to strengthening its presence in Asia.

Event Details and How to Get Tickets

Stay tuned for additional event details, including ticket sales, event partners, and media collaborations. For the latest updates, visit the official website at www.nba.com/risingstarsinvitational or follow the NBA Rising Stars Invitational on Instagram.