Glasgow 2026 to Host Expanded 3x3 Basketball Competition at Commonwealth Games
Exciting Developments for 3x3 Basketball
The Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games has officially announced the nations that will participate in the 3x3 Basketball events, marking a significant step for a sport that debuted just four years ago at the Birmingham 2022 Games.
Fast-Paced Action Awaits
Scheduled from July 24 to July 29, 2026, the 3x3 Basketball competition will take place at the SEC Centre. This dynamic half-court format is known for its rapid pace and engaging atmosphere, making it one of the most thrilling versions of basketball worldwide. Each game features two teams of three players, utilizing a single hoop and a 12-second shot clock to maintain a fast flow of play. Matches last for 10 minutes or conclude when a team scores 21 points, emphasizing speed, skill, and agility.
Growth of the 3x3 Basketball Program
After a successful debut in Birmingham 2022, the 3x3 Basketball program has expanded from eight teams per gender to 12 for Glasgow 2026, reflecting the sport's increasing popularity and global reach.
Qualified Nations for the Competition
The nations qualified for the Men's 3x3 Basketball Competition include: Australia, Cayman Islands, Fiji, Guyana, Jamaica, Kenya, Malaysia, New Zealand, Nigeria, Scotland, Singapore, with one European qualification slot still to be determined. For the Women's 3x3 Basketball Competition, the qualified nations are: Australia, Cayman Islands, Fiji, Jamaica, Kenya, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea, Scotland, Singapore, Tonga, Uganda, with one European qualification slot also pending.
Host Nation and Returning Teams
Scotland, as the host nation, automatically qualifies for both the men's and women's tournaments. Several countries will return for their second appearance in the 3x3 format, including Australia, Kenya, New Zealand, and Scotland, all aiming to improve upon their previous performances.
Newcomers to Keep an Eye On
Fiji will make its Commonwealth Games 3x3 debut after qualifying for both tournaments at the Pacific Mini Games in July 2025. Other first-time participants include Papua New Guinea and Tonga in the women's event, along with the Cayman Islands, Jamaica, and Singapore in both men's and women's categories. Additionally, Guyana, Malaysia, and Nigeria will debut in the men's competition, while Uganda will participate for the first time in the women's event.
Support from Key Figures
Alex Wilson, a three-time FIBA 3x3 World Cup bronze medalist and Olympian, expressed excitement about the upcoming competition, stating, "Participating in 3x3 at the Commonwealth Games was a monumental experience for us, and winning a bronze medal only fueled our ambition to excel further."
Natalie Cunningham, Director of Sport for Glasgow 2026, emphasized the thrilling nature of 3x3 Basketball, noting the electric atmosphere witnessed in Birmingham. She stated, "With new nations joining and experienced teams returning, Glasgow 2026 will highlight the best of 3x3 Basketball."
Ann-Louise Morgan, Director of Sport at Commonwealth Sport, remarked on the sport's growth, saying, "The expansion to 12 teams per gender showcases the excitement and youthful spirit of the Commonwealth Games."
Alex Sanchez, Managing Director of FIBA 3x3, highlighted the global reach of the sport, stating, "The confirmed line-up for Glasgow 2026 reflects the ongoing success of 3x3 Basketball, and we eagerly anticipate the competition this July."
Upcoming Details
The draw and match schedule for the 3x3 Basketball events will be announced later this year.