The USBL, first established in 1985, will relaunch in 2026 after ceasing operation in 2008. The men’s professional basketball league will include at least 15 franchises for the 2026 season.

“Our mission is simple: create opportunity and unforgettable game-night experiences for fans and players alike in markets that love basketball,” USBL executive director Ingrid Hutt said in a news release. “With our 2026 season on the horizon anchored by the strength of established, successful franchises like the Virginia Valley Vipers around the country, the USBL is positioned to make basketball history.”

The Purcellville-based Vipers will be joined by the Bakersfield Majestics, Baltimore Rhythm, Capital Seahawks, Frederick Flying Cows, Las Vegas Stars, Lilac City Legends, Long Beach Blue Waves, New Jersey Shore Breaks, New York Phoenix, Reading Rebels, Salem Capitals, San Diego Sharks, Seattle Super Hawks and Vancouver Bears in the USBL.

“I am thrilled to announce our team’s participation in the newly-resurgent United States Basketball League,” Vipers general manager Jason Hamm said. “With a storied history of developing NBA legends such as Hal Greer and Billy Cunningham, and later serving as a coaching launchpad for figures like John Calipari, we couldn’t be more excited to be part of this revival. We are beyond excited to see what’s in store for the Vipers in this upcoming 2026 season.”

The Vipers — founded in 2022 — relocated to Loudoun County ahead of the 2025 TBL season after spending their first two seasons in Winchester. The Vipers play their home games at Patrick Henry College.