THE 2026 PREMIER Cup Penang Basketball Championship has attracted 24 teams from across Penang and will serve as a platform to identify new talent for the state basketball team, saiys Paya Terubong assemblyman Wong Hon Wai.
Speaking at the tournament’s opening ceremony, the state Tourism and Creative Economy Committee chairman said the championship not only promotes healthy competition among players but also helps strengthen Penang’s basketball development pipeline.
“Promising and capable players will be shortlisted as preliminary candidates for the Penang state team, thereby strengthening the talent pipeline and laying a stronger foundation for the future of Penang basketball,” he said.
The tournament, jointly organized by the Penang Basketball Association and the Central Seberang Perai Basketball Association, is being held at the Farlim Basketball Court and Berapit Basketball Court from June 7 to 29.
Wong said the championship has drawn 11 teams from Penang island and 13 teams from Seberang Perai, with top teams from both zones advancing to compete for the overall Penang title.
He added that the Farlim Basketball Court, which opened in September 2024, has become an active community sports venue, hosting its third official basketball tournament since opening.
“This clearly shows that the court has not been left idle after completion. Instead, it has been well utilized, activated and embraced by the local community,” he said.
Wong also thanked the Penang Island City Council (MBPP) for carrying out repair works at the court ahead of the tournament and encouraged players to seize the opportunity to showcase their talent and earn a place in the Penang state team.
Story by Edmund Lee