Puerto Vallarta, Mexico – Professional basketball continues gaining momentum in Puerto Vallarta as the Iguanas Vallarta prepare for an important new chapter. Entering its third season, the team recently announced its integration into the CIBAPAC League (Pacific Basketball Circuit) for the 2026 campaign, strengthening its role in developing young basketball talent in the region.
The move places Iguanas Vallarta in one of western Mexico’s fastest-growing semi-professional basketball leagues and creates new opportunities for local athletes to compete at a higher level. Team management says the project is designed not only to be competitive, but also to reflect the identity and athletic potential of Puerto Vallarta.
Head coach Alejandro Ramírez emphasized the organization’s commitment to local players, noting that “the door is open for the people of Vallarta.” According to the club, at least seven local athletes are already included on the roster that will compete in the Second Division this season.
With the squad reportedly 90 percent complete, preparations are already underway ahead of the August debut. Morning training sessions will take place at the Agustín Flores Contreras Stadium facilities, where players will focus heavily on physical conditioning and team development before the season begins during the first week of August.
In an effort to make the sport more accessible, the club has removed financial hurdles by offering free registration for participants. While the program focuses primarily on players under the age of 21, the league also welcomes athletes between the ages of 24 and 25 to participate. This inclusive approach ensures that a wide range of local talent has the chance to gain experience in a league recognized for its rapid growth across the northwest and western regions of Mexico.
The 2026 CIBAPAC season officially tips off on August 28 and will feature a demanding 20-game regular season schedule, including 10 home games and 10 road contests. The regular season will conclude in November, followed by the league championship later that month.
For Puerto Vallarta basketball fans, the team’s entry into CIBAPAC represents another step forward in the growth of the sport locally, while giving young athletes the chance to gain experience and exposure in a competitive regional league.
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