32-game season, 12-team format, and expansion momentum position NBL-United States for its biggest season yet
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: May 1, 2026
HOUSTON, TEXAS — The National Basketball League-United States (NBL-US) is proud to officially announce that the NBL-US Season 8 Commissioner’s Cup will begin on November 7, 2026, ushering in a new chapter for one of the fastest-growing college-pro development leagues in the country. Season 8 will feature a 32-game regular season, a 12-team format, and the continued growth of the league’s mission to provide serious basketball opportunities for players ages 16 and up seeking college exposure, professional development, and international pathways.
With momentum building across the Greater Houston region and beyond, NBL-US is preparing for what is expected to be its most important and most visible season to date. The league will continue to strengthen its position as the #1 ranked college-pro development league in the United States, built on a model that combines high-level competition, player branding, media exposure, community engagement, and direct access to future opportunities at the college and professional levels.
Season 8 will also mark a major step forward in league growth, as six new teams will be added to the NBL-US, expanding the league’s footprint and increasing the level of competition throughout the Commissioner’s Cup race. The names and locations of the new franchises will be announced soon.
Among the returning teams generating major attention heading into Season 8 is HBCU Movement, which is coming off an undefeated championship season and will return for its third season with its sights set on winning its third consecutive championship. As one of the league’s flagship organizations, HBCU Movement has continued to raise the standard for excellence on and off the court, and its return adds even more anticipation to an already highly anticipated season.
Commissioner Lillian Countee emphasized that Season 8 represents more than just growth in numbers — it represents growth in vision, opportunity, and impact.
“Season 8 of the NBL-US Commissioner’s Cup is a major milestone for our league and for the future of basketball development in the United States,” said Commissioner Lillian Countee. “With a 12-team format, a 32-game season, and the addition of six new teams, we are continuing to build a league that gives players real opportunities to be seen, to grow, and to move forward in their basketball careers. Our mission has always been bigger than the game itself. We are here to create pathways, strengthen communities, and provide a professional environment for student-athletes and aspiring pros who are serious about taking the next step. The excitement around Season 8 is real, and we believe this will be our strongest season yet.”
The NBL-US Commissioner’s Cup has become one of the league’s signature competitive platforms, showcasing emerging talent in a structured environment that emphasizes exposure, discipline, development, and performance. With returning contenders, new franchises, stronger rivalries, and a growing fan base, Season 8 is expected to deliver a highly competitive schedule and a powerful platform for athletes, coaches, staff, sponsors, and communities across the region.
League officials also believe the Season 8 expansion reflects the increasing demand for alternative development models that can bridge the gap between grassroots basketball, college recruitment, and entry-level professional opportunities. NBL-US continues to position itself as a destination for players who want more than local games — players who want exposure, structure, visibility, and a chance to build something meaningful within a competitive league setting.
As preparations continue for the November 7 tip-off, NBL-US will begin releasing additional Season 8 updates, including team announcements, league promotions, schedule details, marketing initiatives, and community activation plans. The coming months will be focused on building excitement throughout the league’s markets while expanding relationships with families, schools, sponsors, local businesses, and basketball supporters who will all play a role in the success of the Commissioner’s Cup.
The return of proven franchises, the addition of six new teams, and the ongoing rise of organizations like HBCU Movement signal that NBL-US is entering Season 8 with strong momentum and a clear purpose. The league remains committed to creating a high-value experience for players and communities alike while continuing to grow its influence as a national leader in college-pro development basketball.
About NBL-United States
The National Basketball League-United States (NBL-US) is a college-pro development basketball league dedicated to providing players ages 16 and up with competitive opportunities, exposure, and pathways to college, professional, and international basketball. Through elite competition, player development, media visibility, and community-focused programming, NBL-US continues to serve as a platform for the next generation of basketball talent.
For more information, visit: usnbl.com