Pune, 07 JUL 2025 – The ABC Pro Basketball League Season 4 officially began on July 6, 2025, at Rajaram Bhiku Pathare Stadium in Kharadi, Pune. Union Minister of State for Youth Affairs and Sports, Raksha Khadse, inaugurated the event. The launch reflects the Government’s renewed focus on grassroots sports and youth development under the ‘Khelo Bharat Niti 2025’ initiative.
Speaking at the event, Khadse emphasized the importance of fostering a culture of sports among India’s youth. She stated, “The ABC Pro Basketball League embodies the spirit of our young generation and our goal of becoming a sporting nation. Each match, each pass, contributes to a healthier and more united India.”
She further highlighted that grassroots platforms like ABC Pro are essential for identifying talent early and building India’s global sporting presence. The initiative aligns with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of transforming India into a ‘Viksit Bharat’ by empowering youth through structured sports development.
The day started with the season’s first official match at 4:00 PM, followed by the Inauguration Ceremony at 5:15 PM. Key highlights included:
National Anthem and March Past
Speech by Khadse
Trophy Unveiling
An exhibition basketball match
Khadse interacted directly with players and teams, praising the league organizers for their role in bringing basketball to the forefront of youth engagement.
According to organizers, the league received over 5,000 applications from young athletes across Maharashtra. After an extensive selection process and talent trials:
1,000 athletes were shortlisted through an auction
310 elite players were finally chosen to join the league
Players were grouped into 19 teams in Under-14 and Under-17 categories for both boys and girls
This process ensured transparency and merit-based inclusion, promoting fair play and excellence.
Now in its fourth season, the ABC Pro Basketball League continues to expand its impact. All matches will be held at a world-class indoor facility, providing young athletes with top-tier conditions to develop and compete. Organizers are committed to creating a sustainable path for young players to pursue professional basketball careers in India.
The event saw attendance from several key figures in sports and local governance. Notable personalities included:
Mr. Surendra Pathare (Surendra Pathare Foundation)
Mr. Suresh Mishra & Mr. Edward Kacherikar (Kolhapur Jaguars)
Mr. Vijay Sule & Mr. Sadanand Sule (Mumbai Snipers)
Mr. Anshul Jain & Mr. Kevin Francis (Hi 5 RS)
Mr. Indraneel Chitale (Pune Chitale Warriors)
Mr. Rahul Chinta & Mr. Onkar Sable (Thane Tigers)
Ms. Amruta & Mr. Harshal Birati (Nashik Crusaders)
Mr. Jitendra Chouksey (Fittr Warriors)
Mr. Rohit Pawar (Ahilyanagar Storms)
Ms. Mayara, Ms. Deepti Sharma (Nagpur Warriors)
Mr. Abhishek Sinha (Trinita Heats)
Ms. Smita Patil (Nanded Jaguars)
PCMC Stallions, Mumbai Bears, Satara Champs, and Khandesh Heats representatives
The ABC Pro Basketball League Season 4 sets a strong precedent for inclusive and structured youth engagement in sports. Backed by public-private collaboration and strategic vision, it aims to pave the way for India’s emergence as a basketball powerhouse.
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