FIBA 3×3 World Tour Manama 2024 Inaugurated by HH Khalid bin Hamad
Thursday, November 7, 2024Bahrain News Agency
22:23
Manama, Bahrain – The much-anticipated FIBA 3×3 World Tour Manama 2024 officially kicked off today with a grand inauguration ceremony, marked by the presence of His Highness Khalid bin Hamad Al Khalifa. Held at the Bahrain International Exhibition and Convention Centre, the event brings together some of the world’s best 3×3 basketball players for a thrilling competition set to run until the weekend.
In an atmosphere brimming with excitement, the inauguration ceremony was attended by high-ranking officials, sporting dignitaries, and basketball enthusiasts from around the globe. His Highness Khalid bin Hamad, a prominent figure in Bahrain’s sports landscape, delivered the official opening speech, expressing his gratitude and pride in hosting such a prestigious international tournament.
“We are incredibly proud to host the FIBA 3×3 World Tour for the second consecutive year in Manama. This tournament reflects Bahrain’s commitment to nurturing global sports, promoting community engagement, and celebrating the spirit of competition,” HH Khalid bin Hamad said. “The 3×3 basketball format has grown exponentially in popularity, and its inclusion in the Olympics has further solidified its place in the global sporting arena. We look forward to seeing our city shine as a hub for international talent and sporting excellence.”
The 3×3 World Tour, which has grown significantly in both prestige and scale over the years, is now one of the most watched and celebrated events in the world of basketball. Unlike traditional 5-on-5 basketball, the 3×3 format is fast-paced, intense, and packed with excitement, with each game consisting of just 10 minutes or until a team scores 21 points.
This year’s event will feature top-tier teams from around the world, including defending champions, as well as a host of rising stars aiming to make their mark in the world of 3×3 basketball. Teams from countries such as the United States, Serbia, Latvia, France, and Japan are expected to battle it out on the courts in what promises to be an intense showcase of athleticism and skill.
The FIBA 3×3 World Tour has become a signature event for Bahrain, which has increasingly positioned itself as a key destination for international sports. Over the years, Bahrain has hosted several high-profile sporting events, including Formula 1 races, boxing tournaments, and now the global 3×3 basketball circuit. Bahrain’s strategic focus on sports tourism is clearly evident, and the 3×3 World Tour Manama 2024 is expected to attract thousands of spectators over its three-day run.
The event will see a variety of activities surrounding the games, including fan engagement zones, live entertainment, and a showcase of Bahrain’s rich cultural heritage. The official FIBA 3×3 World Tour app has also been launched to provide fans worldwide with live updates, highlights, and interactive features, ensuring that basketball fans everywhere can stay connected to the action.
A Rising Global Phenomenon
The 3×3 basketball format has seen explosive growth since its inclusion in the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, with a rapidly expanding fanbase and a continually evolving competitive landscape. The FIBA 3×3 World Tour, inaugurated in 2010, has become the premier event in the discipline, with cities across the globe hosting tournaments as part of the broader global tour. This year, Bahrain is proud to be one of the central venues in this dynamic competition.
“The sport has gained remarkable momentum and is continuously evolving,” said FIBA 3×3 World Tour Director, Alexander Khloptchev. “Bahrain’s commitment to promoting basketball and its passion for sports make it the ideal place to host one of the world’s premier 3×3 tournaments. The level of competition here is world-class, and we are excited to watch this year’s players showcase their talents.”
In addition to the competitive spirit, the tournament is also fostering collaboration between the global 3×3 community and local grassroots basketball programs. Bahrain has invested in 3×3 courts and training programs to further promote the sport at the youth level, ensuring that the legacy of the World Tour extends beyond the professional stage.
Looking Ahead to an Exciting Weekend
As the tournament officially begins, fans can look forward to thrilling matchups and high-octane action. The event will feature a knockout format, culminating in the championship game on Saturday evening. Tickets are available for purchase, with special offers for families and group attendees. Organizers anticipate a record turnout, as basketball enthusiasts from around the world make their way to Bahrain to witness the excitement firsthand.
“We expect a full house and an incredible atmosphere this weekend,” said tournament organizer Sami Al-Khajeh. “The energy here is infectious, and we’re confident that the 2024 FIBA 3×3 World Tour Manama will be an unforgettable experience for everyone involved.”
For basketball fans, the FIBA 3×3 World Tour Manama 2024 represents the culmination of years of growth for the sport in Bahrain. With the tournament now officially underway, the eyes of the basketball world are firmly focused on the Kingdom, eager to see who will emerge victorious in this high-stakes global competition.
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