THE National Community Basketball League (NCBL) is one of the longest-running basketball leagues in the country.
Incepted in 2006, the NCBL is now gearing up for the 16th season, which starts on Jan 6.
"It's been a long road as we started with only eight teams. We finished the recent 2020 season with 128 teams," said NCBL co-founder and chief organiser Wong Wing Wai.
"The NCBL is growing in popularity, and we are hoping to attract 130 teams next season in order to keep growing.
"The league is quite different compared to other open tournaments as we have a division structure, and there is also a relegation and promotion incentive.
"Our teams also do their part in promoting the sport by scouting for players and organising tryouts.
"This year's Covid-19 situation, however, made it tough for us as we had to organise matches without spectators.
"We're still positive of going ahead with the new season in January. Hopefully, the situation eases up a bit more in the future so that we can get the crowd back in eventually."
The NCBL received a timely boost recently when clothing retail company, Pusat Pakaian Hari Hari extended their sponsorship worth RM60,000 for another two years.
Next season's NCBL, comprising four categories — men's division, women's division, men's veteran and junior boys, is open for registration until Dec 9.