Leagues

About NPBA Leagues

Welcome to the official information hub for the New Plymouth Basketball Association (NPBA) Leagues. NPBA proudly supports the growth of basketball in our region by organising inclusive, competitive, and fun leagues for all age groups — from beginners in Miniball to seasoned Senior players.

Our Miniball & Junior Leagues are run in partnership with local schools across New Plymouth and take place from May to September each year. These leagues cater to:

  • Miniball (Years 0–2 & 3–4): Played on a full court with coaches on court for guidance, Miniball games run over 13 weeks with 40+ teams participating. Players enjoy two 12-minute halves, with rolling substitutions. Games are held on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Wednesdays.

  • Year 5&6 Mixed League: With over 30 teams, this league introduces referee-officiated games and begins with grading rounds followed by a competition phase, semi-finals, and finals over 15 weeks. Games are two 18-minute halves and played on Mondays.

  • Intermediate (Years 7–8): Split into Boys (Premier, A, B, C Grades) and Girls (A & B Grades), this league features grading and competition rounds, followed by finals over 15 weeks. Premier Boys play 8-minute stop-clock quarters, while others play 4x10-minute running-clock quarters. Games are held on Monday nights and Tuesday afternoons.

For older age groups and competitive adult players, our Senior Leagues run from April to September, totaling 18 weeks including grading, regular season, and finals:

  • Men’s Divisions: Premier, Premier Reserve, A, B (and sometimes C) Grades

  • Women’s Divisions: Premier, A & B Grades

  • Wheelchair Basketball: A dedicated time slot is allocated within the Senior League

With over 45 teams across seven divisions, Senior League games are played on Tuesday and Wednesday nights, culminating in an exciting Finals Day in September.

Summer League (October – December & January – March)

Once the Winter Senior League wraps up, NPBA runs a fun and social Senior Mixed Summer League. This league offers a relaxed but competitive environment over two 10-week blocks — 10 games before Christmas and 10 after.

To encourage inclusivity and balance, each team must have at least two women or two teens on the court at all times. A great way to stay active and connected through the off-season!

Whether you're picking up a ball for the first time or competing at a high level, NPBA has a league to match your passion.

For more information or to get involved, contact Pam Moss our Leagues Co-Ordinator (league@newplymouthbasketball.co.nz)