The Elite Pro 3×3 League (EP3L), which was eagerly anticipated to commence on September 28, has been hit by a major setback. The Basketball Federation of India (BFI) issued a notice on September 26, urging players to refrain from participating in the league. This development has left many athletes disappointed, as they were looking forward to showcasing their talent on the EP3L stage.
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The Basketball Federation of India Notice
The notice issued by the Basketball Federation of India has sent shockwaves through the Indian basketball community. The BFI’s decision to discourage players from participating in the EP3L has raised questions about the league’s legitimacy and compliance with national basketball regulations. It appears that the BFI has reservations about the league and wants to ensure that Indian players are not negatively affected by participating in it.
EP3L’s Response
In response to the BFI’s notice, the Elite Pro Basketball League (EPBL) and the Elite Women’s Pro Basketball League (EWPBL) issued a joint statement. They expressed their commitment to the development of basketball in India and their desire to create opportunities for Indian players to excel on a professional level. The statement highlighted their willingness to collaborate with relevant authorities to advance the sport of basketball in India with integrity.
The EPBL and EWPBL emphasized their dedication to establishing basketball leagues in India and conducting promotional activities that would benefit Indian basketball players and the overall ecosystem. Their passion for elevating Indian basketball to greater heights is evident in their statement, and they stressed their openness to collaboration with the relevant governing bodies.
Impact on Indian Athletes
The setback faced by the EP3L is particularly significant because there are currently no other professional basketball leagues in India. For many aspiring athletes, EP3L represented a unique opportunity to gain exposure, develop their skills, and compete at a higher level. With the BFI’s notice discouraging participation, these athletes are left in a state of uncertainty about their future in professional basketball.
The league’s organizers have called upon the general public and players associated with them to refrain from believing “incorrect narratives communicated by vested interests.” This statement suggests that there may be external forces at play in the decision to discourage participation in the EP3L.
The sudden setback faced by the Elite Pro 3×3 League due to the notice issued by the Basketball Federation of India has cast a shadow of uncertainty over the future of professional basketball in the country. While the EPBL and EWPBL express their commitment to the growth of Indian basketball, it remains to be seen how this conflict will be resolved.
