Bahrain’s reputation as a premier host for international basketball was solidified this year after successfully staging three major FIBA events, including the kingdom’s first-ever FIBA Mid-Term Congress 2025, the FIBA Hall of Fame Class of 2025 induction ceremony, and the season-ending FIBA 3×3 World Tour 2025 Manama Final. The events drew global attention, with fans, officials, and players praising the quality of organisation and the dynamic atmosphere.
FIBA Secretary General Andreas Zagklis, who attended all three events, expressed his admiration for Bahrain’s capabilities. “We have seen first-hand the capacity that Bahrain has to deliver events of global magnitude and quality,” Zagklis said in an exclusive interview following the Manama Final. “The title for this weekend was ‘Manama Energy,’ reflecting the passionate fans and vibrant atmosphere.”
The Manama Final, hosted at a purpose-built venue at Bahrain Financial Harbour, marked the pinnacle of the 3×3 World Tour season. Zagklis highlighted the strong fan turnout and praised the players for delivering an outstanding spectacle. He also credited Bahrain Olympic Committee Vice-President Shaikh Isa bin Ali bin Khalifa Al Khalifa for his pivotal role in advancing 3×3 basketball in the kingdom and promoting it internationally.
“The 3×3 game is booming globally, with the LA 2028 Olympics now allowing 12 countries to participate,” Zagklis said. “Bahrain has been a key part of this growth, hosting events and fostering youth engagement through initiatives like the FIBA 3×3 Youth Nations League, which saw a record participation of over 90 countries this year.”
Bahrain’s own 3×3 basketball scene has flourished alongside these international events. For the third consecutive year, the kingdom hosted the FIBA 3×3 World Tour, and for the first time, the season’s final event was held in Manama. Two Bahraini teams participated in the tour, including longtime contenders Riffa and newcomers Seef, who became the first all-Bahraini squad to compete at this level.
The Bahrain Basketball Association has further strengthened domestic 3×3 basketball by launching the kingdom’s first-ever 3×3 league. National teams have also excelled internationally, winning silver at the third Asian Youth Games and gold in both men’s and women’s categories at the Gulf Basketball Association 3×3 U21 Championships.
Zagklis concluded, “We are very happy with the development of 3×3 globally, and Bahrain has been instrumental in showcasing how this fast-growing format can thrive. FIBA will continue to invest in 3×3 and bring it to every corner of the world.”
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