Houston, TX – The Women’s National Basketball League-United States (WNBL-US) is officially set to debut in May 2026, marking a historic expansion in professional basketball. The WNBL-US is a direct partner of the National Basketball League-United States (NBL-US), which is entering its 6th year and seventh season in 2026. This groundbreaking league will provide a premier platform for the top 120 unsigned female athletes, ages 17 and up, as they pursue opportunities at the collegiate, professional, and international levels.
Mission Statement
The WNBL-US is dedicated to fostering elite women’s basketball talent by providing a competitive, high-visibility platform that bridges the gap between amateur and professional basketball. Our mission is to empower athletes through exposure, mentorship, and career development, ensuring they have every opportunity to achieve their dreams both on and off the court.
Vision and Purpose
The WNBL-US is committed to elevating the game of women’s basketball by providing a structured, competitive league designed to highlight the skills and potential of talented female athletes. The league will serve as a pipeline for players seeking college scholarships, professional contracts, and international basketball opportunities. By fostering partnerships with college programs and overseas leagues, the WNBL-US aims to be a steppingstone for athletes looking to take their careers to the next level.
The inaugural season will feature 12 teams, with a 20-game regular season beginning on May 30th, 2026, and concluding on August 30th, 2026. Official team announcements are coming soon, with open tryouts set to begin in January, 2026.
Statements from Leadership
Kevin Williams Sr., President and Founder of NBL-United States:
“The addition of the WNBL-US is a major milestone for our organization and for women’s basketball in the United States. This league is about more than just competition – it’s about creating opportunities. We have seen the immense talent that exists among young women who deserve a stage to showcase their skills. With the success of the NBL-US as our foundation, we are confident that the WNBL-US will provide the exposure and development necessary to help these athletes achieve their dreams. I couldn’t be more excited to launch this league and watch it grow into a premier destination for women’s basketball.”
Lillian Countee, Commissioner of the NBL-United States:
“I am thrilled to be working alongside the WNBL-US and bringing another level of competitive basketball to our platform. Women’s basketball is growing at an incredible rate, and it’s time we provide a league that not only showcases talent but also nurtures future stars of the game. This is an opportunity for young women to gain the recognition they deserve and open doors to both collegiate and professional careers. The WNBL-US will be a game-changer, and I am honored to be part of this historic moment.”
What’s Next?
Team announcements coming soon!
Player tryouts begin in January 2026 – stay tuned for details.
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Website: www.usnbl.com
For media inquiries, sponsorship opportunities, or additional information, please contact the NBL-US at info@usnbl.com.
About WNBL-US
The Women’s National Basketball League-United States (WNBL-US) is a professional developmental basketball league providing top-tier opportunities for unsigned female athletes. As an official partner of the NBL-US, the WNBL-US is committed to advancing women’s basketball through elite competition, development programs, and career pathways at the collegiate, professional, and international levels.
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