Legendary franchise set to play a 40-game 2026 season; the dynasty returns to where it all began.
HOUSTON, Texas — October 9, 2025 — The National Basketball League – United States (NBL-US) proudly announces the return of its most iconic franchise — the four-time undefeated champions, East Houston United — for the upcoming 2026 NBL-US Division 1 season.
The United, who dominated the NBL-US landscape from 2020 through 2023, return after a two-year hiatus that saw their head coach and President of Basketball Operations, Kevin Williams Sr., continue his legacy of excellence elsewhere in the league — including serving as General Manager of the 2024 HBCU Movement Championship Team, and leading his family hometown team, the Gueydan Flying Ducks, to the 2025 NBL-US Championship, also in undefeated fashion.
Now, the dynasty returns. The East Houston United will once again call Houston home as they prepare to defend their legacy and extend their record-setting unbeaten streak.
A Dynasty Reborn
The East Houston United hold a historic distinction as the only team in NBL-US history to win four consecutive league titles — the inaugural championship in 2020, followed by repeat titles in 2021, 2022, and 2023. Each season, they combined elite athleticism, disciplined coaching, and an unwavering focus on development, becoming the blueprint for the modern NBL-US organization.
Season Framework
The United will compete in a 40-game regular season beginning January 2026, as part of the NBL-US Division 1. The season is divided into four (4) ten-game sessions, providing flexibility for players seeking the right level of exposure:
- Session 1: Foundational Development (10 games)
- Session 2: Competitive Readiness (20 games)
- Session 3: Professional-Level Exposure (30 games)
- Session 4: Full Season & Showcase (40 games)
Players can compete in one, two, three, or all four sessions, depending on their personal goals, skill level, and recruitment timeline.
Player Benefits & Opportunities
East Houston United athletes, like all players across the NBL-US, receive an unmatched package of exposure and professional development tools, including:
- NIL compensation and incentive opportunities
- Official FIBA Profile for international visibility and contract eligibility
- USBasket.com (Eurobasket Network) player profile for verified scouting access
- Live-streamed games on NBL-US broadcasting partners and New Era Sports TV
- Individual game highlights and verified FIBA stats for every player
- Access to placement assistance for college programs and professional leagues (domestic and international)
This system gives players measurable tools and professional validation within the only FIBA-sanctioned basketball league in the United States, blending AAU, Post-Graduate, and Semi-Professional basketball into one complete platform for athletes aged 17 and up.
Statement from Kevin Williams Sr.
President of Basketball Operations
“This is personal — East Houston United was where it all started. To bring this program back home after everything we’ve accomplished across the league feels right.
We built something special from day one: a culture of winning, accountability, and brotherhood. Four straight championships weren’t luck — they were the result of hard work, sacrifice, and a belief that East Houston produces elite basketball talent when given the right structure.
I’m excited about what’s ahead for this team. The goal isn’t just to win; it’s to help players from East Houston realize their dreams of playing college ball, earning domestic contracts, or signing internationally. United have never been beaten, and until someone knocks them off their throne, They will keep setting the standard for what NBL-US basketball is supposed to look like.
The United are back — and are here to prove why they’re still the best.”
Statement from the Commissioner
Lillian Countee, Commissioner, NBL-US
“The return of East Houston United is a moment of celebration for our entire league. This franchise is where our story began. They helped define what the NBL-US stands for — structure, opportunity, and excellence.
The United’s legacy as four-time undefeated champions is unmatched, and we’re thrilled to see them back on the floor as part of the 2026 season. Their return represents the best of Houston basketball and the best of our league’s vision — helping athletes move from development to opportunity, both here and around the world.”
About the NBL-US
The National Basketball League – United States (NBL-US) is a FIBA-sanctioned professional development basketball league headquartered in Houston, Texas. It is the only basketball league in the United States that integrates AAU, Post-Graduate, and Semi-Professional competition into a single, structured ecosystem — creating legitimate pathways for athletes from age 17 and up.
Mission
To empower athletes through credible exposure, professional development, and verified opportunities that lead to college scholarships, domestic professional contracts, and international careers.
Vision
To build a globally connected and sustainable basketball system that turns development into opportunity — where athletes of all backgrounds can elevate their game, education, and future through the power of organized competition.
Membership Information
Athletes ages 17 and older can apply for NBL-US Division 1 membership and participate in one or more sessions based on readiness and exposure needs.
Applications, tryout information, and full 2026 season details available at:
🌐 usnbl.com
Media & Inquiries
Media Contact:
National Basketball League – United States (NBL-US)
📍 Houston, Texas
🌐 usnbl.com
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