NSAC World Invitational 2026: What We Know So Far
The inaugural NSAC World Invitational is set to bring together eight collegiate basketball teams from four countries for three days of international competition this August.
Organized by Asiabasket in partnership with the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) and the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP), the tournament aims to provide Filipino student-athletes with the opportunity to compete against quality international programs while strengthening basketball ties across the Asia-Pacific region.
Here’s everything we know so far about the tournament.
When is the NSAC World Invitational?
The NSAC World Invitational will be held from August 14 to 16, 2026.
The tournament will feature eight teams competing over three days, with every team guaranteed three games through a knockout format with classification games.
Where will the games be played?
All games will be held at PhilSports Arena in Pasig City.
Games are scheduled to begin at 11 a.m. each day, with the final game tipping off at 5 p.m.
Which teams are competing?
The tournament will feature four Philippine collegiate teams and four international squads.
Philippines
- University of Santo Tomas Growling Tigers
- San Beda University Red Lions
- Jose Rizal University Heavy Bombers
- Far Eastern University Tamaraws
International
- Fighting Eagles Nagoya (Japan)
- Tenri University (Japan)
- National Formosa University (Taiwan)
- Elite Stacks AUS (Australia)
How will the tournament work?
The NSAC World Invitational will follow a knockout format with classification games, ensuring every participating team plays three games throughout the event.
- August 14: Opening knockout games
- August 15: Classification games and semifinals
- August 16: Placement games, the third-place game, and the championship game
Where can fans buy tickets?
Tickets are now available through TicketNet.
Each ticket grants fans access to all games scheduled for that day, allowing spectators to watch every matchup on the day’s slate.
Where can fans watch?
Fans who cannot make it to PhilSports Arena can catch the action live on One Sports and One Sports+.
Why is the NSAC World Invitational important?
According to Asiabasket Founder and CEO Jai Reyes, the tournament reflects the organization’s vision of elevating Philippine collegiate basketball by giving local student-athletes meaningful opportunities to compete against international opposition.
“The NSAC World Invitational is a reflection of our vision to elevate Philippine collegiate basketball beyond our borders,” Reyes said.
He also thanked the Philippine Sports Commission and the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas for supporting the initiative.
“Together, we’re creating more opportunities for Filipino student-athletes to compete internationally while continuing to raise the standard of collegiate basketball in the Philippines,” he added.
What to Watch For
The NSAC World Invitational offers a rare chance to see some of the Philippines’ top collegiate basketball programs test themselves against teams from Japan, Taiwan, and Australia on home soil.
Beyond competing for the inaugural championship, the tournament continues Asiabasket’s efforts to expand opportunities for Filipino student-athletes while helping raise the profile of Philippine collegiate basketball on the international stage.
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