3×3 basketball to expand its presence at the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games
SportsIn
February 7, 2025

The International Basketball Federation (FIBA) has announced that the Commonwealth Games Federation (CGF) has confirmed the expansion of the 3×3 basketball team quota for Glasgow 2026. Compared to Birmingham 2022, the number of men’s and women’s teams will increase from 8 to 12, reflecting the great success of the discipline in its debut at the last edition of the event.

AN EXPANSION THAT STRENGTHENS 3X3

The 50% increase in the team quota will allow more Commonwealth Games associations to participate, contributing to the overall development of the sport. At Birmingham 2022, 12 CGAs competed in the 3×3 tournament, and that number is expected to grow in 2026.

FIBA Secretary General Andreas Zagklis stressed that this decision confirms the growing popularity of 3×3 in Commonwealth countries and around the world. “We are delighted that the 3×3 quota has been increased for Glasgow 2026 and grateful to the CGF for their continued support. We have no doubt that, with more teams competing, we will be able to build on Birmingham’s success and deliver an exciting competition with a powerful global legacy.”

Katie Sadleir, executive director of the CGF, also celebrated the return of 3×3 and its expansion, noting that both basketball and wheelchair basketball were a great spectacle in Birmingham. “Their success means they will be even bigger at Glasgow 2026, with more games to enjoy.”

The 3×3 wheelchair basketball will also see an increase in the-equipment, rising from six-equal men’s and women’s teams to eight in each category.

GLASGOW 2026

Glasgow 2026 organising chief executive Phil Batty stressed that the Commonwealth Games offer a fully integrated sporting program and that the expansion of 3×3 will allow more players and fans to enjoy the competition. “With action-packed programs across the city’s four venues, there is something for everyone. Glasgow 2026 will be a world-class sporting celebration, full of passion, fun and exceptional sport.”

The Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games will be held from July 23 to August 2 and will feature a program of 10 sporting disciplines involving athletes from 74 nations and territories.