In a defining moment for Taiwanese professional basketball, the New Taipei Kings captured the first-ever Taiwan Professional Basketball League (TPBL) championship on Sunday night, defeating the Kaohsiung FamilyMart Aquas 108–89 at home. The title win not only cemented the Kings’ place in Taiwanese sports history but also marked a successful debut season for the newly formed league.
A Statement Win Backed by a Star
From the opening whistle, the Kings demonstrated poise, physicality, and strategic brilliance. Their early dominance was undeniable — a 35–18 first-quarter lead showcased their fast-paced offense and tight defense. By halftime, the Kings had widened the gap to 61–38.
Though the Aquas attempted a comeback in the third quarter and closed the margin to just 12 points, Jeremy Lin, the Kings’ marquee player and former NBA star, took over the game. Lin drained several crucial three-pointers — each met with thunderous applause from the home crowd — helping the Kings regain momentum and extending their lead.
In the final frame, the Kings surged ahead with a 20+ point lead and never looked back.
💡 What Makes This Victory Unique?
- First TPBL Championship: This is the first season and first championship of the TPBL, a new initiative aimed at unifying Taiwan’s professional basketball structure and increasing global exposure.
- Jeremy Lin’s Legacy in Taiwan: Lin’s presence elevated the league’s prestige. His performance in the final — a blend of leadership, court vision, and sharp shooting — embodied the professionalism and star power TPBL aims to attract.
- Kaohsiung’s Strong Season: Despite the loss, the Kaohsiung Aquas had a formidable run throughout the season. Their third-quarter rally in the final showed grit, though they fell short against a well-prepared Kings squad.
- Fan Engagement & League Future: The TPBL reported sold-out arenas in several cities and record-breaking livestream viewership. With corporate sponsorships from brands like FamilyMart and strong public interest, the league is poised for growth.
📊 Game Summary
| Quarter | Kings | Aquas |
|---|---|---|
| Q1 | 35 | 18 |
| Q2 | 26 | 20 |
| Q3 | 22 | 27 |
| Q4 | 25 | 24 |
| Final | 108 | 89 |
🎤 Player Spotlight: Jeremy Lin
At 36, Jeremy Lin has redefined his basketball journey in Taiwan. After stints with the NBA and CBA, he joined the Kings not just as a player but as an ambassador of the sport in Asia.
“This isn’t just about winning a game,” Lin said post-match. “It’s about inspiring a new generation of athletes in Taiwan. Basketball is growing here, and I’m honored to be part of that.”
🔍 Additional Insights
- TPBL Vision: The league is a consolidation effort to raise Taiwan’s domestic basketball to international standards, combining players from P.League+, T1 League, and other regional circuits.
- Youth Development: Grassroots academies affiliated with the Kings have seen a 40% increase in registration since Lin joined the team.
- Media Coverage: Major broadcasters in Japan, the Philippines, and China aired the final, reflecting Taiwan’s expanding basketball diplomacy.
📌 FAQs
What is the TPBL?
The Taiwan Professional Basketball League (TPBL) is Taiwan’s newly unified premier basketball league, formed to consolidate local talent and promote international competition.
Who is Jeremy Lin and why is he important to this league?
Jeremy Lin is a former NBA player known for “Linsanity” during his time with the New York Knicks. He brings star power, experience, and media attention to Taiwan’s domestic league.
How does this win impact basketball in Taiwan?
It boosts national pride, encourages youth participation, attracts sponsors, and lays a strong foundation for Taiwan to compete regionally and globally.
Will there be more teams joining TPBL?
Yes, the league has indicated plans to expand by two teams next season and will also host a summer league to scout new talent.
