The Basketball League (TBL) is a professional men's basketball league that has gained recognition for providing a platform for athletes to pursue their passion for the game while positively impacting the local community. Established in 2017, the league has expanded significantly, boasting a total of 38 teams as of 2024. Under the leadership of CEO Evelyn Magley and President Dave Magley, TBL has been dedicated to delivering a world-class professional basketball experience to fans, players, and business partners across the United States.
Founding and Expansion
The TBL, previously known as the North America Premier Basketball (NAPB), emerged in 2017 when Sev Hrywnak and Dave Magley announced the formation of a new professional basketball league. Magley, who previously served as the commissioner for the National Basketball League of Canada, brought his expertise to this new venture. The league began its operations in North America in 2018 with eight teams and has since expanded to 38 teams in 2024, making it a significant player in the professional basketball landscape.
Mission and Values
TBL is not just about basketball; it's about community involvement and positive impact. The league's programs include players engaging with the community, such as reading to younger children, hosting basketball camps for teens, and addressing students in school-wide assemblies about substance abuse and the importance of education. This approach emphasizes the league's commitment to making a difference beyond the basketball court.
Player Profile
TBL provides opportunities for a diverse range of athletes, including:
- Players from Division 1 through Division 3 schools looking to kickstart their professional careers.
- Athletes who have played overseas and want to continue their careers in the US.
- Former NBA players seeking to extend their careers by playing in a US-based league.
The league offers player salaries ranging from $500 to $6,500 per month, ensuring that players have the opportunity to earn a living while doing what they love.
League Operations
The TBL operates with a budget range of $125,000 to $250,000 per season for each team. The league's season typically commences in March and concludes in June with a championship tournament. With more than 40 teams for the 2022 season, TBL has a widespread presence across various states, including Alabama, California, Florida, Indiana, New York, Ohio, Texas, and Washington State, among others.
Community Impact
One of the core aspects of TBL's mission is the positive impact it makes on the local communities. Benefits of having a TBL team in a local community include:
- Providing affordable and quality family entertainment through professional basketball games.
- Engaging in school and group appearances, youth camps, clinics, and support for non-profit organizations, thereby fostering a sense of community involvement and support.
Ownership Opportunities
Local individuals or groups have the opportunity to own a professional sports business through TBL. With a relatively low-cost barrier to entry and a proven game plan for success, owning a TBL team offers a promising return on investment while making a positive impact on the local region.
The Basketball League goes beyond being a platform for professional basketball; it serves as a catalyst for community engagement, athletic development, and entertainment. With a strong emphasis on community impact, player opportunities, and a commitment to delivering a world-class basketball experience, TBL has positioned itself as a significant player in the landscape of professional basketball in the United States.
TBL's dedication to delivering a world-class professional basketball experience to its community, fans, and business partners, combined with its focus on community involvement and athlete empowerment, solidifies its position as a prominent and impactful entity in the realm of professional basketball.
