The Big Picture
The Austin Bats, Austin's only professional basketball team, are back for the American Basketball Association 2026–2027 season and will play their first game on Oct. 25 at St. Edward’s University. The timing matters because the Bats will make their season debut carrying the ABA's national championship banner, having secured the league title earlier this year.
What Changed
What shifted is status: the team finished as the ABA's number one squad in 2026 after beating the Buffalo eXtreme on April 12. Owner Leticia Castillo framed this season as different, saying the organization has new excitement and energy surrounding it. That championship result is the concrete change the season carries into its opener.
What's Next
The Bats' first game of the 2026–2027 ABA season is scheduled for Oct. 25 at St. Edward’s University. The Community Impact story does not provide game time, ticket prices, or a ticket link, so check the team's official channels for those details before you go.