The 5x5 professional basketball tournament (VBA 5x5) in Viet Nam is scheduled to take place from June 10 - September 30 in Ha Noi, Ho Chi Minh City, Nha Trang, Can Tho, and Da Nang.

Illustrative image (Photo: Internet)

This year's event is expected to have a total of 74 matches organised in a centralised competition model with the competition of 7 clubs, namely defending champion Saigon Heat, Ha Noi Buffaloes, Thang Long Warriors, Da Nang Dragons, Cantho Catfish, Nha Trang Dolphins, and Ho Chi Minh City Wings. 

In the group stage, the teams will met 3 times instead of 2 times like VBA 5x5 2022. Therefore, the number of matches will be increased to 63, doubling that of 2022.

The increased 21 matches will be held according to the centralised competition model at the Ha Noi-based Cau Giay Gymnasium from June 10 to 30. The remaining matches of the season will be held according to the home-away model in the localities of 7 clubs.

Specifically, the group stage consisting of 63 matches will take place from June 10 - September 3. The semi-final stage with 6 matches will take place from September 7 - 15. The final stage with 5 matches will be held from September 17 - 30.

Another new feature of this year’s VBA is to expand opportunities for young talents. The VBA 5x5 in 2023 will apply the rules of the VBA 5x5 in 2022.

Accordingly, VBA officially changed the age for considering athletes in the youth training programme from U20 to U18. Thus, talented young athletes have the opportunity to compete officially and shine at professional basketball matches.

Reporting by P.N - Translating by M.DUNG