What's Happening?
The National Basketball Association (NBA) and the International Basketball Federation (FIBA) have announced a new format for the Basketball Without Borders (BWB) program. The 10th annual BWB All-Star camp will take place in Los Angeles from February 13 to 15, 2026, at the UCLA Health Training Center. This event will feature 40 top high-school-age prospects from 29 countries and territories. The reimagined format, called 'BWB Next Up,' will include two annual camps for the top 80 male and female prospects from outside the U.S. The top performers from these camps will be selected to participate in the BWB All-Star camps at the NBA and WNBA All-Star events. The program aims to enhance the development of international players and create a clearer
pathway to professional basketball.
Why It's Important?
The reimagined BWB program is significant as it strengthens the global basketball talent pipeline, providing young international players with opportunities to develop their skills and gain exposure. By bringing together diverse playing styles and training philosophies, the program fosters a rich learning environment that can accelerate player development. This initiative also underscores the NBA and FIBA's commitment to growing basketball worldwide, potentially increasing the sport's popularity and talent pool. The involvement of current and former NBA and FIBA players as coaches further enriches the experience for participants, offering them mentorship and guidance from seasoned professionals.
What's Next?
The BWB Next Up camps will be announced in the coming months, with the first events expected to take place later in the year. The program will continue to evolve, with the potential for more international players to enter the NBA and WNBA. The success of this initiative could lead to further collaborations between the NBA, FIBA, and other basketball organizations worldwide, enhancing the global reach and impact of the sport.
