Date: January 5, 2026
League: National Basketball League–United States (NBL-US)
Website: usnbl.com
Email: info@usnbl.com
Baton Rouge, Louisiana — The National Basketball League–United States (NBL-US) is proud to officially announce the addition of the Baton Rouge Beast as the league’s newest franchise, set to compete beginning with the 2026 NBL-US Season, which tips off May 2, 2026.
The Baton Rouge Beast become the latest Louisiana-based organization to join the rapidly expanding NBL-US, following the championship blueprint set by the Gueydan Flying Ducks, the reigning 2025 NBL-US Champions, and the continued growth of the Lake Charles Aces, now entering their second season of league competition.
A Strategic Addition to a Growing Louisiana Footprint
The addition of the Baton Rouge Beast further solidifies Louisiana as a cornerstone market for the NBL-US. With teams now spanning multiple cities across the state, the league continues its mission of creating sustainable, high-level basketball opportunities while building strong regional rivalries and community engagement.
The Baton Rouge Beast are expected to play a key role in elevating basketball visibility in South Louisiana while contributing to the league’s broader Gulf Coast growth strategy.
About the NBL-US
The NBL-US is a FIBA-sanctioned professional and college development basketball league, uniquely designed to bridge the gap between amateur, collegiate, and professional basketball pathways.
Key League Distinctions
- FIBA Sanctioned competition
- College & Professional Development League
- Open to unsigned athletes ages 16 and up
- The only league in the United States that features:
- Unsigned high school athletes
- Unsigned post-graduate athletes
- College graduates seeking professional opportunities
The NBL-US is nationally recognized for providing verified game film, statistics, and structured exposure opportunities for athletes pursuing college scholarships, domestic professional careers, and international basketball placement.
2026 Season Overview
- Season Start Date: May 2, 2026
- Season Length: 15 regular-season games
- Competition Level: FIBA-sanctioned professional development
- Athlete Focus: Exposure, advancement, and long-term career pathways
Commissioner’s Statement
Lillian Countee, Commissioner of the National Basketball League–United States, shared her excitement regarding the newest franchise:
“We are extremely excited to welcome the Baton Rouge Beast to the NBL-US family. Baton Rouge is a basketball-rich city with deep talent and passionate fans, and the Beast represent everything our league stands for—opportunity, development, and community impact.”
“What excites us most is what this team brings not only to Baton Rouge, but to the greater Baton Rouge and South Louisiana basketball ecosystem. The Beast will provide a structured, professional pathway for local and regional athletes who are still chasing college, professional, and international dreams. This franchise strengthens our Louisiana footprint and raises the competitive standard of our league.”
“Following the championship success of the Gueydan Flying Ducks and the growth of teams like the Lake Charles Aces, we believe the Baton Rouge Beast are positioned to make an immediate and lasting impact on and off the court.”
Looking Ahead
With the addition of the Baton Rouge Beast, the NBL-US continues to position itself as The Exposure League, offering unmatched access, structure, and opportunity for unsigned athletes across the United States.
The 2026 season is expected to be one of the most competitive and talent-rich in league history.
For More Information
🌐 Website: usnbl.com
📧 Email: info@usnbl.com