Bahrainis chase global shot

TDT | Manama

Email: mail@newsofbahrain.com

Bahraini youth basketball players are a single tournament win away from the global spotlight, thanks to a landmark upgrade to the Bahrain Summer 3x3 Basketball Championship. The final round of the tournament will now qualify its winner directly for the prestigious FIBA 3x3 World Tour, offering local talent a first-of-its-kind gateway to elite international competition.

Global breakthrough

The decision by the International Basketball Federation (FIBA) to raise the tournament’s status from Lite Quest to Quest places Bahraini players in contention for a world-stage debut. It is a rare chance for teams composed entirely of local players aged 16 and above to make their mark alongside the best in the sport.

With 3x3 basketball gaining traction worldwide and solidifying its place as an Olympic discipline, this development is being seen as a transformative moment for Bahrain’s basketball ecosystem, particularly for its emerging youth players.

Support driving change

The Bahrain Basketball Association (BBA), under the guidance of His Highness Shaikh Isa bin Ali Al Khalifa, Vice President of the Bahrain Olympic Committee, has been championing the development of 3x3 basketball in the Kingdom. The international recognition by FIBA is a nod to these sustained efforts.

In addition to the tournament upgrade, the BBA has introduced a dedicated logo for the 3x3 format, establishing a stronger visual identity and paving the way for deeper local engagement and recognition of the sport.

One chance to win

Commenting on the milestone, BBA Secretary-General Ahmed Hafez said, “We consider this step the beginning of a long journey towards strengthening the Kingdom’s representation in major tournaments. We are working to create the appropriate environment for Bahraini players to enter international competitions with confidence and competence.”

Teams interested in competing must register before 7 p.m. on Tuesday, June 10th, 2025, via the BBA’s social media platforms. Eligibility is restricted to Bahraini nationals aged over 16.

To reach the final, teams must participate in at least three qualifying rounds, with the top two from each stage advancing. Only one team will secure the final Quest victory, and with it, a golden ticket to the FIBA 3x3 World Tour.