The Kenyan basketball fraternity received a shot in the arm on Wednesday, October 5 after the Commonwealth Federation announced the return of the 3X3 Basketball ahead of the 2026 edition to be staged in Victoria, Australia.
Dame Louise Martin, Commonwealth Games Federation President broke the news stating that 3x3 Basketball and Shooting will be part of the sports that will be played in Victoria.
“We are thrilled to confirm the Sport Program for the 2026 Commonwealth Games, with the additional sports proposed by Victoria 2026 completing an exciting and diverse line-up.
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“The Games are set to be competitive and action-packed, featuring an extensive, fully integrated Para Sport Program, the debuts of Coastal Rowing, Golf and BMX, the return of Shooting and the scintillating 3x3 Basketball,” read her statement.
The minister in charge of legacy at the Commonwealth Games, Shaun Leane backed the introduction of the above sports to promote cultural diversity.
“The Games will deliver a blend of contemporary, traditional and Para sports, promoting diversity and inclusion," he stated.
3X3 Basketball and Shooting made their debut at the 2022 edition that was held in Birmingham, United Kingdom between the months of July and August.
In Birmingham, both the Kenya women’s and men’s 3x3 basketball teams were knocked out at the quarterfinals stage.
The men’s side were beaten 20-15 by Australia while their female counterparts exited the tournament after a 21-12 defeat in the hands of hosts England.
Hilda Andasi, Victoria Reynolds, Medina Okoth, Larry Aligula and Faheem Juma were among the stars who represented Kenya at the games which are held after every four years.
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