Tracy McGrady is bringing one-on-one basketball back in style. The Ones Basketball League (OBL), originally founded in 2022, will return for its third iteration thanks to a $5–7 million capital infusion from Miami-based investment firm Next Gen Sports.
McGrady, a seven-time NBA All-Star and Hall of Famer, drew inspiration from playground basketball and his AAU program, where one-on-one games shaped his skillset. “A lot of my friends, we just grew up playing 21… that’s how I learned my skills,” he said.
League Structure and Format
The 2026 OBL season kicks off May 15 in Orlando, featuring a three-round tournament in a high school gym seating 500–600 fans. Eight city-based teams, composed solely of local players, will compete in a “Battle of the Cities”, with a $100,000 top prize. NBA players with over two years’ experience are barred from participation, though celebrity owners like Vince Carter, John Wall, and rapper Jadakiss bring star power to the franchises.
McGrady funded the initial league with roughly $5 million from his own earnings, but the Next Gen Sports investment allows him to expand the league’s reach, refine operations, and explore sponsorships. Games will initially stream on YouTube, with potential streaming partnerships under discussion.
Future Ambitions
Beyond 2026, McGrady envisions adding a women’s league and expanding internationally, starting with China. While large profits aren’t the immediate focus, McGrady emphasizes long-term growth and sustainability. “This is my baby. I want to be a part of this as long as possible,” he said.