10 Best Basketball Academies in China (2025)
Here are the top basketball academies in China offering great facilities, skilled coaching, and programs for players of all ages and levels.
Basketball’s popularity in China keeps growing, making the country a good destination for basketball training and development. Across the country, numerous basketball academies cater to kids, teens, and even adults, from beginners learning basics to elite prospects chasing pro dreams.
These academies accept a wide range of age groups, offer full-time or part-time programs, and provide instruction in Chinese, English, or both. Whether you’re a parent in Shanghai, a young player in Beijing, or an international student interested in training in China, these academies offer top-notch coaching, great facilities, and unique programs.
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1. NBA Basketball School – Haikou, Hainan
Located at Mission Hills Haikou. Opened in 2021, it’s the first NBA-operated basketball training campus in China. The School offers an authentic NBA training experience. With facilities including multiple indoor courts, advanced fitness centers, swimming pools, and dormitories, it caters to players of all levels, from juniors to professional prospects. Training emphasizes NBA methods, focusing on fundamentals, teamwork, and sportsmanship.
How to Join: Interested individuals can apply online via Mission Hills’ or NBA China’s websites. There are seasonal camps (summer/winter) and full-time development programs, applicants may need to register for specific sessions or be selected for elite training. Instructions are given in Chinese and English, and the training emphasizes fundamentals, teamwork, and NBA-style player development.
Fun Fact: NBA legends such as Dirk Nowitzki and Kobe Bryant have visited to inspire and mentor players.
Website: missionhillschina.com
2. Five-Star Basketball Academy – Multiple Cities
Five-Star Basketball Academy operates across multiple cities, including Shenzhen, Shanghai, Beijing, and more. It features international coaches providing bilingual instruction to players aged 4–18. Programs range from casual after-school classes to intensive competitive team training and summer camps.
How to Join: Register through their official website.
Website: fivestarsports.cn
Fun Fact: The academy often hosts clinics led by NBA players and enjoys partnerships with NBA China and Nike.
3. NBA Academies – Many cities
NBA Academies in many cities across the country is the pinnacle of youth basketball training in China, providing intensive residential programs for elite prospects aged 14–18. Students receive NBA-standard coaching and participate in international competitions.
How to Join: Invitation-only, typically identified through national and Jr. NBA programs.
Website: jr.nba.com
Fun Fact: Alumni often advance to prestigious U.S. college basketball programs or professional careers.
4. Youth Basketball Development League (YBDL) – Shanghai & Beijing
YBDL is known for its international coaching team, offering programs conducted primarily in English for players aged 5–18. The academy combines skill-building sessions with competitive league play, creating a practical and engaging learning experience.
How to Join: Enroll via their official website or at local training centers.
Fun Fact: YBDL regularly hosts NBA legends, including Allen Iverson and Kobe Bryant, for special training events.
5. China Basketball College – Beijing
Part of the Beijing Sport University, China Basketball College specializes in developing professional basketball players, coaches, and referees through rigorous training and academic programs. It targets older teenagers and young adults aspiring toward professional careers in sports.
How to Join: Admission requires academic testing and sports talent assessments through university admission procedures.
Website: bsu.edu.cn
Fun Fact: It frequently serves as a training ground for the Chinese national basketball team, providing unique exposure for students.
6. Select Basketball Club – Shanghai
Established by expat coaches, Select Basketball Club provides competitive and developmental basketball programs primarily in English for youth aged 5–18. The club fosters community involvement and teamwork, competing in both local and international tournaments.
How to Join: Attend tryouts for competitive teams or register online for developmental classes.
Website: selectbasketballshanghai.com
Fun Fact: Actively involves parents and families, creating a tight-knit community environment.
7. Triple Double Basketball Academy – Hong Kong
Run by Duncan Reid, captain of Hong Kong’s national team, Triple Double Basketball Academy offers comprehensive training for ages 5–16. Classes are bilingual, combining fundamental skill training with advanced competitive techniques.
How to Join: Register online or directly at the academy facility.
Website: tdbasketballhk.com
Fun Fact: Founder Duncan Reid regularly shares professional insights and experiences with academy students.
8. CBA Dongguan Basketball School – Dongguan, Guangdong
The CBA Dongguan Basketball School is renowned as a breeding ground for elite talent, specifically designed for youth aged 12–17. It provides rigorous training, combining basketball fundamentals with academic education. Facilities include professional-standard courts and comprehensive boarding options.
How to Join: Admission requires participation in competitive tryouts or recommendations by coaches.
Fun Fact: Located in Dongguan, famously known as China’s “Basketball City” and home to the champion Guangdong Southern Tigers.
9. ALBA BERLIN Basketball Academy Asia – Hong Kong
Germany’s most successful basketball club brought its expertise to Hong Kong in 2021. This academy emphasizes cultural exchange and environmental education alongside rigorous training.
How to Get In:
- Submit a highlight reel via their website or attend local tryouts.
- Participate in ALBA’s regional tournaments for visibility.
Standout Features:
Unique “Basketball Builds Bridges” program combining sports and sustainability
Produced NBA players like Franz Wagner.
Website: albaberlinacademy.asia
10. UCBA Basketball Academy – Nationwide
UCBA bridges basketball development between China and the U.S., offering pathways for young athletes to train at elite institutions, compete internationally, and pursue NCAA or professional careers. Founded in 2016, it emphasizes cultural exchange, academic growth, and high-level competition.
How to Get In:
- Secure recommendations from coaches or scouts via regional tournaments like the YAOXIN International High School Basketball Tournament.
- Submit player profiles, highlight reels, or tournament stats through UCBA’s website.
- Attend tryouts for UCBA’s Sino-American sister-school programs or international camps.
Standout Features:
Global Exposure: Partners with U.S. programs like the Junior Knicks Camp and NIKE EYBL leagues. Their 2023 China trip involved coaching clinics and tournaments with over 100 teams
Alumni Success: Graduates include Quincy Ji (Bentley University), a former teammate of WNBA star Xu Han, and Hao Chen (No. 12 prospect in New York’s Class of 2025) 1.
Website: UCBA Basketball Academy
Conclusion
Basketball academies in China offer an impressive variety of options—from relaxed community programs to elite professional training. Regardless of age, ability, or language preference, aspiring basketball players in China can find excellent opportunities to develop their skills, compete, and pursue their basketball dreams in a vibrant sporting community.
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