MoS Sports Raksha Khadse Inaugurates ABC Pro Basketball League in Pune

Minister of State for Sports Raksha Khadse inaugurated the fourth season of the ABC Pro Basketball League in Pune, praising the tournament for aligning with the central government’s Khelo India initiative aimed at promoting grassroots sports development.

Speaking at the opening ceremony, Khadse emphasized the importance of such platforms in nurturing young sporting talent. “This league perfectly resonates with the spirit of Khelo India. It encourages physical fitness, discipline, and competitive spirit among youth,” she said.

According to the organisers, the league saw a massive turnout with over 5,000 young basketball aspirants participating in statewide trials across Maharashtra. After a thorough selection process that included an auction system, 1,000 players were shortlisted, and 310 players were eventually chosen to represent 19 teams.

The league features both Under-14 and Under-17 categories, for boys and girls, aiming to provide structured training and competitive exposure to budding basketball players.

With increasing participation and professional organization, the ABC Pro Basketball League is emerging as a significant platform for youth basketball talent in India.