When our first tournament took place in 2006 in Salt Lake City, the media showed up. I didn't understand the magnitude of what was happening.
-Mark Chambers, Founder
What started in 1998 as an idea to unite all the LGBTQ+ basketball leagues—and players—from across the nation to make the process of running national tournaments easier, has grown into an open and inclusive community of chosen family that comes together multiple times per year for a family reunion like no other. Like any other family we joke, we fellowship, and we have fun. But most importantly, WE COMPETE.
2002-2006
SUCCESS FROM THE START
The NGBA was formed to bring organization and baseline standards to the LGBTQ+ basketball community. From 2002 to 2006 the NGBA promoted the future path of LGBTQ+ basketball, and that path started to shine at the 2006 Gay Games in Chicago.
INCLUSION
We are an inclusive organization open to EVERYBODY. We pride ourselves on the diversity of our community and the family that we’ve built.
FIRST EVENT
Our first tournament took place in Salt Lake City, Utah in October 2006 with a surprise appearance from multiple media outlets.
DIVISIONS
Initially beginning with only an upper and lower division, the NGBA has grown to offer 7 All Gender divisions and 3 Women’s+ divisions.
VOLUNTEERS
The NGBA would not be the organization it is today without the help of dedicated and selfless volunteers. Contact info@ngba.org to get involved.
2007-2010
CITY TEAMS GROWTH
Many LGBTQ+ basketball programs were created during the first five years of NGBA's existence. It was an exciting time to see many local leaders embracing the power of LGBTQ+ basketball. The community that has been built is like no other. Check the City Leagues page to find an LGBTQ+ basketball league near you. If there is not one listed near you, reach out and we can help.
CITY LEAGUES
City leagues keep the NGBA going. The work done by local leaders cannot be appreciated enough. Without these leaders, NGBA would not be able to welcome new members tournament after tournament.
GYM LOCATION
There are many cities with open and league play. The NGBA can connect you to a local league or help you start a league.
WOMEN'S+ DIVISION
The NGBA Women’s+ division started in 2018. After a number of years apart, the Women’s+ division held its first solo tournaments in West Hollywood and Brooklyn in 2024.
National Gay Basketball Association
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The National Gay Basketball Association (NGBA) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that is an integrated and all-inclusive organization dedicated to providing the LGBTQ+ community with a well-organized, supportive and welcoming sporting environment.
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