FIBA Secretary General Declares 2024 a Record Year for 3×3 Basketball
FIBA Secretary General Andreas Zagklis announced 2024 as a record year for 3×3 basketball, citing increased events and social media engagement. The format offers smaller nations a chance to compete on a global stage. Zagklis anticipates expanded participation in future Olympics, including plans for 12 teams in upcoming competitions.
FIBA Secretary General Andreas Zagklis has proclaimed 2024 as a groundbreaking year for 3×3 basketball, highlighting the sport’s expansive growth in reach and engagement. At a year-end media conference, Zagklis credited the momentum to the successful representation of 3×3 at the 2024 Paris Olympic Games. He emphasized significant increases in event numbers and social media metrics, revealing that FIBA has over 57 million followers and five billion views across its platforms.
Zagklis remarked on the democratic nature of 3×3 basketball, stating that it provides opportunities for smaller nations to excel on international stages, citing impressive performances from countries like Madagascar and Latvia. He expressed a strong belief that the Olympic platform enhances the sport’s visibility, ensuring that nations with fewer resources can still aspire to Olympic glory. Looking ahead, Zagklis confirmed that the competition at the upcoming 2026 Dakar Youth Olympic Games will feature 12 teams, a model FIBA is also advocating for future Olympic events in Los Angeles 2028 and Brisbane 2032.
With an anticipation of growing interest, Zagklis asserted that 3×3 basketball would attain increased prominence and support in Los Angeles and beyond. “There is little doubt that 3×3 will be followed very closely in LA, and loved by the local audience. I expect 3×3 to really go to the next level in LA28,” he stated, underscoring the sport’s trajectory towards greater inclusivity and global appeal.
3×3 basketball, a dynamic and fast-paced variant of the traditional game, has seen exponential growth in popularity, particularly since its inclusion in the Olympic Games. The format allows for a more compact style of play, making it accessible to a broader range of players, especially those from smaller countries with limited basketball infrastructure. As FIBA continues to promote 3×3, its role in elevating the sport’s profile and fostering international competition is becoming increasingly significant, particularly through events like the Olympics.
In conclusion, the year 2024 is poised to mark a significant milestone for 3×3 basketball, as acknowledged by FIBA Secretary General Andreas Zagklis. The growth in participation and online visibility, combined with the unique opportunities afforded to smaller nations, reinforces the sport’s commitment to inclusivity. As 3×3 continues to capture global attention, its influence on basketball dynamics will likely increase in upcoming Olympic events.
Original Source: www.china.org.cn
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