Dr S Subramanian’s expertise, guidance helped in shaping careers of basketball players

Basketball is popular in various part of India. It’s worth noting that the sport has a significant following in different regions, including the northeast and Punjab, not just limited to South India. The Ludhiana Basketball Academy (LBA) was established to promote the sport in Punjab and the surrounding regions.

The LBA, set up in 2003, with the support of an NRI Harjinder Singh Dhanoa and the Directorate of Sports, Punjab, provided the infrastructure such as dormitory accommodation for lodging the players, and basketball grounds (one indoor and two outdoor courts) and multi-gym for the conditioning training.

One of the greatest and most influential coaches in Indian basketball history, late Dr S Subramanian, former Director of basketball, Netaji Subash National Institute of Sports (NIS), Patiala, joined the academy where he helped nurture dozens of India’s best players.

Under his leadership, the LBA played a pivot role in shaping the careers of numerous basketball players, promoting the sport in Punjab, encouraging more young boys and girls to take up the sport. The academy’s focus on developing skills and promoting the sport has made it a breeding ground for basketball talent in India.

Dr Subramanian’s guidance brought a significant change in the basketball landscape of Punjab, increasing participation among young boys and girls, and contributed to Punjab’s growing competitiveness in basketball, enabling the state to challenge the dominance of traditional basketball strongholds in India.

Dr Subramanian is the second inductee into the Hoopistani Indian Basketball Hall of Fame. He died on May 22, 2013, after offering over 40 years of service to Indian basketball. His dedication, passion and expertise earned him a special place in the basketball fraternity. His legacy continues to inspire players, coaches and enthusiasts alike.

Recalling his contributions, Teja Singh Dhaliwal, general secretary, Punjab Basketball Association, said the LBA trainees consistently matched up against top teams from the southern states, showcasing their skills and determination. “The academy has produced talented players who have gone on to represent India in various national and international championships, bringing recognition and accolades to the academy and Punjab,” he said.

“The LBA continues to be a hub for talent development, inspiring young athletes to pursue their passion for basketball and thrive for excellence. Under Dr Subramanian’s expert guidance and mentorship, several trainees from LBA have been part of the Indian national basketball team, showcasing their skills and dedication to the sport. They represented India in prestigious tournaments like FIBA Asia Cup, Asia Cup, Asian Games and Commonwealth Games,” said Dhaliwal.

Some of the trainees of the LBA who have gained international recognition include Satnam Singh Bhambra being the first Indian player to be drafted in the NBA.

Amritpal Singh represented India in FIBA Asia Championship and played for the Sydney Kings in the Australian National Basketball League.

Princepal Singh represented India in various international tournaments and also became the part of the Sacramento King’s a squad that won the NBA Summer league.

Amjyot Singh played in FIBA Asia championship and was part of the Filou Oostende Basketball Cup in Belgium.

Palpreet Singh captained the Indian team at the FIBA Asia Cup 2025 and also represented the country internationally for over 15 years, featuring in three Asia Cups and the Asian Games.

Sahaij Partap Singh Sekhon was member of India basketball team and scored 14 points against China in FIBA Asia Cup, while Kanwar Gurbaz Singh and Arvinder Singh Kahlon, trainees of the LBA represented India in various international tournaments.

Other trainees of the LBA — Jagdeep Singh represented India in the FIBA Asia Cup qualifying tournament, Anmolpreet Kaur represented India in FIBA Asia Basketball Championship and for her outstanding performance, was felicitated by the PBA, Kiranjit Kaur represented India in international tournaments like ABC Hong Kong and the Commonwealth Games.

As the academy continues to produce talented players, it is poised to play an even more significant role in shaping the future of Indian basketball. With its strong reputation commitment to excellence, the LBA is set to remain a force to be reckoned with in the world of basketball.