Season Tips Off February 21, 2026 | 20-Game Schedule | Competing in the New Era Sports TV Conference
Baton Rouge, Louisiana — The National Basketball League–United States (NBL-US) proudly announces the addition of the Baton Rouge Beast, marking an exciting expansion of the league’s influence in the southern United States. The Beast will officially begin league play on February 21, 2026, participating in a 20-game regular season under the New Era Sports TV Conference banner.
The inclusion of Baton Rouge in the NBL-US family represents a landmark moment in professional development basketball, as the city takes its place on the national stage in a league designed to spotlight unsigned players aspiring to advance their careers through collegiate, international, and professional opportunities.
Commissioner Lillian Countee’s Statement
“Bringing professional developmental basketball to Baton Rouge is not just about expanding a league—it’s about expanding opportunity,” said Commissioner Lillian Countee. “Louisiana has a deep talent pool and passionate fan base that deserves visibility and pathways to success. The NBL-US remains committed to bridging the gap between grassroots and global basketball by providing a system that not only showcases skill but builds careers responsibly.”
“Our partnership model allows players to maintain college eligibility while exploring NIL deals, sponsorships, and international exposure through a FIBA-sanctioned structure. The Beast’s arrival reinforces our mission to support education, opportunity, and professional growth all in one league.”
Kevin Williams Sr. on Baton Rouge’s New Journey
“We’re proud to bring the Baton Rouge Beast to our league,” said Kevin Williams Sr., President of the NBL-United States. “This program is about giving unsigned talent—from high school graduates to young adults—a platform to develop their game, gain real professional exposure, and pursue scholarships or contracts that change lives. Baton Rouge is built on heart, hustle, and hope—qualities that define the Beast on and off the court.”
About the NBL-US: The Exposure and Incentive League
The National Basketball League–United States (NBL-US) is a groundbreaking development platform built for College, International, and Professional Domestic Opportunities, offering a unique blend of exposure, education, and advancement.
- League Model: FIBA-sanctioned and structured to align with international standards.
- Player Composition:
- 3 players aged 18 and under
- 4 players aged 19–22
- 3 players aged 23 and up
- Opportunities: Players are eligible for sponsorships, NIL (Name, Image & Likeness) deals, and can retain their college eligibility.
These features have earned the NBL-US the designations “The Exposure League” and “The Incentive League”, highlighting its role as a bridge between amateur and professional basketball.
Global Partnerships and Success Stories
The NBL-US currently partners with 12 countries worldwide, opening direct international routes for player development and recruitment.
During the 2024–2025 season, the league proudly saw seven players sign college scholarships, reflecting the success of its talent pipeline and the credibility of its exposure-centered mission.
Looking Ahead
With the launch of the Baton Rouge Beast, the NBL-US continues to redefine developmental basketball by ensuring accessibility, visibility, and authenticity for every athlete who dreams of playing professionally. Fans can expect a thrilling season of high-level competition, mentorship, and progression starting February 21, 2026.
Contact Information
National Basketball League–United States (NBL-US)
Website: www.usnbl.com
Email: info@usnbl.com
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