FIBA has announced that the Commonwealth Games Federation (CGF) has confirmed the 3x3 team quota will be increased to 12 men’s and 12 women’s teams for the Glasgow Games, reflecting the huge success of 3x3’s debut at Birmingham 2022.
3x3 made its debut as a Commonwealth Games sport at Birmingham 2022 and England had much to celebrate with its men’s and women’s teams creating basketball history by winning gold and silver medals to capture the nation’s attention and imagination.
The decision represents a 50% increase from the quota allocation at Birmingham 2022 that saw eight men’s and eight women’s teams compete.
Team England will have to navigate a qualification tournament but there will be high expectations following the successes of 2022.
"Our England teams performed exceptionally two years ago to obtain their gold and silver medal haul in Birmingham and we're excited to put together a performance programme and elite squad selection that can, from the men's perspective, defend our title, and for the women, go one better and turn silver to gold."
The expansion of quota places will create new opportunities for Commonwealth Games Associations (CGAs) to compete in the Commonwealth Games and support the ongoing development of 3x3 around the world. At Birmingham 2022, 12 CGAs took part in the Commonwealth Games and this will look to be increased in 2026.
“We are delighted that 3x3’s quota has been increased for Glasgow 2026 and grateful to the CGF for their ongoing support of our sport. The decision is a testament to the great debut success of 3x3 at Birmingham 2022 and the growing popularity of 3x3 in Commonwealth nations and around the world. We have no doubt that with more teams competing at Glasgow 2026 we will be able to build on the success of Birmingham to deliver a thrilling competition and powerful global legacy.”
“The 3x3 Basketball and 3x3 Wheelchair Basketball competitions were brilliant to watch at the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games so we are pleased they are back! Their success means they are bigger than before with the 3x3 Basketball competitions for men and women extending from eight teams to 12 and the 3x3 Wheelchair Basketball for men and women going from six teams to eight, meaning more games to enjoy!”
Glasgow 2026 promises to be a truly immersive festival of sport and celebration of culture and diversity that inspires athletes and sports – with a spectator experience more accessible than ever before with fans brought closer to the sporting action.
“What makes the Commonwealth Games so special to so many is its fully integrated sport program. The 3x3 Basketball and 3x3 Wheelchair Basketball competitions were a fantastic success in Birmingham 2022, loved by players and fans alike. It is brilliant that we have been able to further showcase this great sport, with more games to experience as the program goes from eight teams to 12. I'm confident that with action-packed programs across all four venues in the city, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Glasgow 2026 is set to be a world-class sporting celebration, filled with passion, fun, and outstanding sport!”
The Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games will take place on 23 July to 2 August. 3x3 will be among a 10-strong sports programme with elite athletes from 74 nations and territories competing for glory.
.
.
