The Latvian Basketball League (LBL; Latvian: Latvijas Basketbola līga) also known as the Pafbet LBL for sponsorship reasons, is the top-level national basketball championship in Latvia composed of 6 teams. Since 2018/19, only the playoff matches are played, as the top Latvian clubs play the regular season in the Latvian–Estonian Basketball League. The LBL is governed by the Latvian Basketball Association, the national governing body of basketball in Latvia.

Its 6 teams are located in 5 cities; two in Riga, and one in Ventspils, Liepāja, Valmiera, and Ogre. The LBL season usually ran from September to April, with the playoffs in April–May. The league was founded in 1992, and its first season was played in the same year.

History

Before 1992

After American YMCA volunteers introduced the sport in Riga around 1920, interest in the sport grew, and in 1923 the YMCA organized the first ever basketball tournament in Latvia, with 14 teams registering. In 1924, the newly-founded Latvian Basketball Association announced the first Latvian Basketball Championship in the winter of 1924 (Latvian: Latvijas meistarsacīkstes basketbolā) with 6 teams participating. It was won by the Latvian Sports Society (Latvijas Sporta biedrība) team, who defeated the Riga YMCA team (Rīgas JKS) in the final game with a score of 25:15. The first official national women's tournament followed in 1932.

Early years

The first LBL season was played in 1992, with LBL2 (LBL 2. divīzija) as its second division and LBL3 as the third. From 1992 to 1999 all championships were won by BK Brocēni, however, from 2000 to 2006 BK Ventspils were the champions. In 2007, ASK Rīga stopped BK Ventspils' winning streak. BK Ventspils won again in 2009, beating Barons/LMT in a thriller 4–3.

Later history

Barons would return to the final the following year, this time against VEF Rīga, and win by the same 4–3 margin. The 2011 final again went to 7 games, with VEF Rīga defeating Ventspils. Between 2011 and 2018, the title changed hands frequently, with BK Valmiera Ordo claiming the title in 2016.

Since the introduction of the Latvian-Estonian Basketball League in the 2018/2019 season, the regular LBL championship was merged into the LEBL. The six top Latvian teams then qualify for the LBL playoffs after the end of the LEBL regular season. VEF Rīga has held the title ever since.

For the 2020/2021 season, the 2nd tier Latvian league - LBL2 - was reformed into the Ramirent Nacionālā basketbola līga [lv] (NBL, National Basketball League) and LBL3 became the Reģionālā basketbola līga (Regional Basketball League).

The Latvia Basketball League (LBL) is the premier professional basketball tournament in Latvia, showcasing the country's top talent and fostering a competitive spirit among its teams. Established to promote the sport and develop local players, the LBL features a dynamic mix of clubs from across Latvia, each vying for the coveted championship title.

The tournament typically runs from late autumn through spring, culminating in an exciting playoff series that determines the league champion. With a format that includes regular-season games followed by knockout rounds, the LBL offers thrilling matchups and intense rivalries, drawing passionate fans to arenas across the nation.

In addition to the high level of competition, the LBL serves as a platform for emerging talent, providing opportunities for young athletes to shine and potentially advance to international leagues. The league also emphasizes community engagement, with various initiatives aimed at promoting basketball at the grassroots level.

Whether you're a die-hard basketball fan or new to the sport, the Latvia Basketball League promises an exhilarating experience filled with skillful play, dramatic moments, and the vibrant energy of Latvian basketball culture. Join us in celebrating the passion and dedication of players, coaches, and fans alike as they come together for another thrilling season of the LBL!