The campaign comes in the wake of a hugely successful inaugural She Calls Game initiative launched in 2022 by FIBA Media to bring a new female voice to the world feed commentary. That resulted in more women being part of media teams at multiple FIBA events. In addition to the previous roles offered of commentator and photographer, there will also now be content creator and writer roles available. All successful applicants will receive support, guidance and training from a range of FIBA professionals across the various media areas and will also have the opportunity to gain experience at the FIBA Women's Basketball World Cup 2026 Qualifying Tournaments. For those selected for each position, this experience will extend to participating in the highly anticipated FIBA Women's Basketball World Cup 2026 in Berlin, Germany, next September, with commentator and content creator roles forming part of FIBA Media’s extensive production team. FIBA Secretary General, Andreas Zagklis, stated: "We are delighted to be launching this next chapter of the initiative. We know there are many more talented and aspiring women with a passion for basketball who are ready to tell powerful and captivating stories about our sport." "Being part of the FIBA Women's Basketball World Cup 2026 is a huge and exciting incentive. But this is also about potentially building skills, capacity and an even stronger, diverse and talented media team for multiple FIBA events in the future - not just within the women's game." Interested applicants are encouraged to act quickly, with deadlines for the various categories soon approaching in February 2026. Shortlisted applicants will be involved in the FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup 2026 Qualifying Tournaments in March. The winners will be announced at the FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup 2026 Draw in April. How to Apply?Commentators: Submit a short commentary clip using the provided game moment here. Applicants can send their application via email by February 16. Content Creator: Submit a 1-minute POV video from a local basketball game, highlighting its most iconic and emotional moment and showing us where the game lives. Applications can be sent via email by February 23. Content Writer: Submit a one-page telling us who you are and why you want to join us, with two editorial pieces via email by February 10. Photographer: Submit a one-page telling us who you are and what your experience is in sports photography, also via email by February 10. The winners of each position will be announced on April 21 at the FIBA Women's Basketball World Cup 2026 Draw, which will take place in Berlin, Germany. For more information, click here. More than 87 million people in the U.S. have watched NBA games this season across NBC/Peacock, ESPN, Amazon Prime Video and NBA TV, the most viewers in 15 years and up 89% vs. last year. NBA TO ENGAGE PROSPECTIVE TEAMS AND OWNERSHIP GROUPS FOR NEW BASKETBALL LEAGUE IN EUROPE IN PARTNERSHIP WITH FIBA – New League Would Offer Every Team in a FIBA-Affiliated Domestic League in Europe an Annual, Merit-Based Pathway to Qualify – MIES, SWITZERLAND AND NEW YORK, Dec. 22, 2025 – The National Basketball Association (NBA) and the International Basketball Federation (FIBA) today announced that they will in January move forward in their joint exploration of a new professional, pan-European men’s basketball league by engaging prospective teams and ownership groups in the process to join the league. In addition to permanent spots, the new league would offer every team in a FIBA-affiliated domestic league in Europe a merit-based pathway to qualify on an annual basis either through FIBA’s Basketball Champions League (BCL) or an end-of-season qualifying tournament. The league would also align its schedule with domestic league and national team schedules, allowing players to represent their club and national team year-round. As part of the new league, the NBA and FIBA would also plan to dedicate financial support and resources to the continued development of Europe’s basketball ecosystem, including domestic leagues, club team academies, and the NBA and FIBA’s existing programs to develop aspiring players, coaches and referees at all levels of the game. “Advancing further this joint NBA-FIBA project is great news for the European basketball community,” said FIBA Secretary General Andreas Zagklis. “The format of the league respects European sport model principles by offering any ambitious club in the continent a fair pathway to the top. The project is conceived in a way that will improve the sustainability of the entire European basketball ecosystem, including players, clubs, leagues and national federations, by generating a knock-on effect that will strongly benefit basketball fans throughout Europe.” “Our conversations with various stakeholders in Europe have reinforced our belief that an enormous opportunity exists around the creation of a new league on the continent,” said NBA Commissioner Adam Silver. “Together with FIBA, we look forward to engaging prospective clubs and ownership groups that share our vision for the game’s potential in Europe.” The NBA and FIBA will provide additional updates in the coming months.
NBA to engage prospective teams and ownership groups for new basketball league in Europe in partnership with FIBA |
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 | | Photo: FIBA Secretary General Andreas Zagklis and NBA Commissioner Adam Silver (Credit: NBAE/Getty Images) |
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DECEMBER 22, 2025 MIES/NEW YORK (Switzerland/U.S.A.) – The National Basketball Association (NBA) and the International Basketball Federation (FIBA) today announced that they will in January move forward in their joint exploration of a new professional, pan-European men’s basketball league by engaging prospective teams and ownership groups in the process to join the league.
In addition to permanent spots, the new league would offer every team in a FIBA-affiliated domestic league in Europe a merit-based pathway to qualify on an annual basis either through FIBA’s Basketball Champions League (BCL) or an end-of-season qualifying tournament. The league would also align its schedule with domestic league and national team schedules, allowing players to represent their club and national team year-round.
As part of the new league, the NBA and FIBA would also plan to dedicate financial support and resources to the continued development of Europe’s basketball ecosystem, including domestic leagues, club team academies, and the NBA and FIBA’s existing programs to develop aspiring players, coaches and referees at all levels of the game.
"Advancing further this joint NBA-FIBA project is great news for the European basketball community," said FIBA Secretary General Andreas Zagklis. "The format of the league respects European sport model principles by offering any ambitious club in the continent a fair pathway to the top. The project is conceived in a way that will improve the sustainability of the entire European basketball ecosystem, including players, clubs, leagues and national federations, by generating a knock-on effect that will strongly benefit basketball fans throughout Europe."
"Our conversations with various stakeholders in Europe have reinforced our belief that an enormous opportunity exists around the creation of a new league on the continent," said NBA Commissioner Adam Silver. "Together with FIBA, we look forward to engaging prospective clubs and ownership groups that share our vision for the game’s potential in Europe."
The NBA and FIBA will provide additional updates in the coming months. NUGGETS’ ADELMAN FINED NEW YORK, Dec. 21, 2025 – Denver Nuggets head coach David Adelman has been fined $35,000 for directing inappropriate language toward game officials and failing to leave the court in a timely manner following his ejection, it was announced today by James Jones, Executive Vice President, Head of Basketball Operations. The incident, for which Adelman received his second technical foul and was ejected, occurred with 8:40 remaining in the fourth quarter of the Nuggets’ 115-101overtime loss to the Houston Rockets on Dec. 20 at Ball Arena. TIMBERWOLVES’ FINCH FINED NEW YORK, Dec. 21, 2025 – Minnesota Timberwolves head coach Chris Finch has been fined $35,000 for directing inappropriate language toward game officials and failing to leave the court in a timely manner following his ejection, it was announced today by James Jones, Executive Vice President, Head of Basketball Operations. The incident, for which Finch was assessed two technical fouls and ejected, occurred with 6:19 remaining in the first quarter of the Timberwolves’ 112-107 win over the Oklahoma City Thunder on Dec. 19 at Target Center. Nowitzki, Bird Lead Parade of Legends into FIBA Hall of Fame |
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| December 21, 2025 MIES (Switzerland) - On World Basketball Day, FIBA is proud to announce the Hall of Fame Class of 2026, paying tribute to legendary figures whose contributions have shaped the global game.
A total of seven players and one coach are being recognized for their stellar individual contributions to the sport.
Members of the Class of 2026 will be honored at an enshrinement ceremony on April 21 in Berlin.
Hoops icons Dirk Nowitzki of Germany and Sue Bird of USA headline the group of new inductees.
Nowitzki, the MVP of both the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2002 in Indianapolis and EuroBasket 2005 in Belgrade, represented his country in FIBA competitions for two decades. He started with the youth teams in 1995, before leading the senior team at numerous tournaments until 2015.
With the Dallas Mavericks, the 2.13m (7ft) power forward won an NBA title, competed in numerous playoffs, and claimed the NBA MVP award. He was a perennial All-Star.
Bird, a 1.75m point guard, was the heart and soul of the USA women's team that dominated international basketball from 2002 until her international retirement at the Tokyo Olympics in 2021. She spearheaded the USA runs to four FIBA Women's Basketball World Cup titles and also played an integral role in five consecutive Olympic gold medal-winning teams, when the Americans won every game they played.
Nowitzki and Bird are joined in the 2026 class by Céline Dumerc, Hedo Türkoğlu, Clarisse Machanguana, Ludwik Miętta-Mikołajewicz, Wang Zhizhi, and Ismenia Pauchard.
Dumerc, France's point guard when they won the FIBA Women's EuroBasket 2009, claimed runners-up spots on three other occasions in the competition and a third-place finish. The lightning quick playmaker had a reputation for hitting shots in the clutch for her national team, including at the 2012 Olympics when she sparked the team on a run that finished with a silver medal.
Türkoğlu is a legend of Türkiye who shot to prominence when his team reached the FIBA EuroBasket 2001 Final in Istanbul. In 2009, the long-time NBA star led the Orlando Magic to the NBA Finals. A year later, when the 2010 FIBA Basketball World Cup was hosted in his country, he took the 12 Giant Men to the Final and was named to the All-Star Five.
Clarisse Machanguana was a celebrated center of Mozambique. One of the most revered players in African basketball, Clarisse led her country to third place at the FIBA Women's AfroBasket in 1993 and second place in 2013. The second achievement resulted in a historical first qualification of Mozambique to the FIBA Women's Basketball World Cup.
Wang Zhizhi of China claimed two FIBA Asia Cup titles, in 2001 and 2011. The explosive scorer also competed in four Olympics (1996, 2000, 2008, 2012) and two FIBA Basketball World Cups (2006, 2010). He was the first-ever Chinese to be drafted and play in the NBA.
Ludwik Miętta-Mikołajewicz of Poland was the coach of the Wisla Kraków women's team and led it to 14 domestic titles, the first in 1963 and the last in 1981. Miętta-Mikołajewicz also had the honor of coaching Poland's women's national team. He guided them to two runners-up finishes at the FIBA Women’s EuroBasket in 1980 and 1981, and led the team to the FIBA Women's Basketball World Cup in 1983.
Ismenia Pauchard is a legend of the Chile women's national team and is being inducted posthumously. Pauchard was the third leading scorer at both FIBA Women's Basketball Cups in 1957 and 1964.
Here is the full list of inductees that make up the 2026 Class of the FIBA Hall of Fame:
Players - Sue BIRD (USA)
- Céline DUMERC (FRA)
- Clarisse MACHANGUANA (MOZ)
- Dirk NOWITZKI (GER)
- Ismenia PAUCHARD (CHI)
- Hedo TÜRKOĞLU (TUR)
- Wang ZHIZHI (CHN)
Coaches Members of the Class of 2026 will be honored at an enshrinement ceremony on April 21 in Berlin - the same day as the FIBA Women's Basketball World Cup 2026 Draw.
Both the enshrinement ceremony and the draw will take place in Berlin at Kraftwerk, a former power plant that has been transformed into a striking event venue. This distinctive setting captures the city’s creative energy and vibrant urban culture. LAKERS’ SMART FINED NEW YORK, Dec. 20, 2025 – Los Angeles Lakers guard Marcus Smart has been fined $35,000 for making an obscene gesture toward a game official, it was announced today by James Jones, Executive Vice President, Head of Basketball Operations. The incident occurred at halftime of the Lakers’ 143-135 win over the Utah Jazz on Dec. 18 at Delta Center. NAISMITH BASKETBALL HALL OF FAME ANNOUNCES ELIGIBLE CANDIDATES FOR THE CLASS OF 2026 - Blake Griffin, Candace Parker, Elena Delle Donne, and 1996 USA Basketball Women's National Team Among First-Time Nominees; Mark Few, Doc Rivers, and Amar’e Stoudemire Among Group that Return as Eligible Candidates -
SPRINGFIELD, MASS. (December 19, 2025) – The Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame announced the list of eligible candidates for the Class of 2026, featuring several high-profile first-time nominees.
Notable new candidates for the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame Class of 2026 include the 1996 USA Basketball Women's National Team, Mike D’Antoni, Jamal Crawford, Elena Delle Donne, Blake Griffin, Joe Johnson, Candace Parker, Bruce Pearl, and Kelvin Sampson. Marv Albert, Mark Few, Doc Rivers, and Amar’e Stoudemire are among returning eligible candidates.
“The candidates for the Class of 2026 have each left an indelible impact on the game of basketball,” said John L. Doleva, President and CEO of the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame. “Through defining performances, influential leadership, and achievements that helped elevate the sport on the national and international stage, this year’s ballot recognizes those whose legacy continues to shape how the game is played, coached, and celebrated.”
The first look at the list of eligible nominees was provided by “NBA Today” on ESPN, hosted by Malika Andrews, with Ramona Shelburne, Tim Bontemps, Kendrick Perkins, and Shams Charania in studio. A complete list of eligible candidates can be found below. Finalists chosen from the applicable Category Screening Committees for the Class of 2026 will be announced at a later date. The entire Class of 2026 will be unveiled during a nationally televised broadcast on Saturday, April 4, during Final Four Weekend.
The Finalist and Class Announcement times and broadcast networks will be announced by Monday, February 9.
Enshrinement Weekend will begin at the Mohegan Sun on Friday, August 14, with the Tip-Off Celebration and Awards Gala, followed by the Enshrinement Ceremony the next day at Springfield’s historic Symphony Hall.
All VIP Packages, single-event tickets to the Ceremony, Tip-Off Celebration, and Awards Gala, as well as other ancillary events, will go on sale on Saturday, April 4. All packages and tickets will be available for purchase at hoophall.com.
The complete listing of events and pricing will be released on Monday, February 9.
For the latest news and updates, follow @hoophall on X and Instagram. Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame Class of 2026 Ballot * Indicates First-Time Nominee NORTH AMERICA NOMINEES
Rick Barnes (COA) Gene Bartow (COA) Tom Chambers (PLA) Jamal Crawford (PLA)* Joey Crawford (REF) Terry Cummings (PLA) Bobby Dibler (REF) Mark Few (COA) Robert Foley (COA) Mike Gminski (PLA) Blake Griffin (PLA)* Anfernee Hardaway (PLA) Herman Harried (COA)* Robert Horry (PLA) Marques Houtman (PLA) Joe Johnson (PLA)* Kevin Johnson (PLA) Marv Kessler (COA) Bill Laimbeer (PLA) Mike Leonardo (COA) Maurice Lucas (PLA) Jack Madden (REF) Shawn Marion (PLA) Rollie Massimino (COA) Bob McKillop (COA) Gary McKnight (COA) Paul Mihalak (REF)* Steve Moore (COA) Bill Morse (COA) Dick Motta (COA) Tom Murphy (COA)* Jack Nagle (COA) Bruce Pearl (COA)* Jim Phelan (COA) Donald Richardson (COA) Doc Rivers (COA) Dave Robbins (COA) Lee Rose (COA) Brandon Roy (PLA)* Kelvin Sampson (COA)* Scott Skiles (PLA)* Harry Statham (COA) Amar’e Stoudemire (PLA) Jerry Welsh (COA) Buck Williams (PLA) Shelden Williams (PLA)*
WOMEN’S NOMINEES
1996 United States Women’s National Team (TEA)* Leta Andrews (COA) Jennifer Azzi (PLA) Lynn Norenberg Barry (CONT)* Lisa Bluder (COA) Elena Delle Donne (PLA)* Cheryl Ford (PLA) Wanda Ford (PLA) Bridgette Gordon (PLA) Chamique Holdsclaw (PLA) Bettye McClendon (REF) Suzie McConnell (PLA) Taj McWilliams-Franklin (PLA) Candace Parker (PLA)* Ticha Penicheiro (PLA) Ruth Riley (PLA) Tom Shirley (COA)* Michelle Snow (PLA)* Mike Thibault (COA) Marian Washington (COA) Chris Weller (COA) Andrew Yosinoff (COA)
CONTRIBUTOR NOMINEES
Marv Albert Pete Babcock Bernie Bickerstaff Tal Brody Vic Bubas Tremaine Dalton Mike D’Antoni* Bill Duffy Mike Fratello Bob Gibbons Roberto Gonzalez Simon Gourdine Tim Grgurich Dennis Jackson Junius Kellogg Johnny “Red” Kerr Dan Lynch Elmo Mahoney* Ken Mahoney* Jack McCloskey Jon McGlocklin Alex McKechnie* Johnny Most Dennis Murphy Curly Neal Jim Riswold Ermer Robinson* Will Robinson Gene Shue Otis “Dino” Smiley Scott Tarter Sonny Vaccaro Donnie Walsh World Wheelers
INTERNATIONAL NOMINEES
David Blatt (COA) Jean-Jacques Conceicao (PLA) Mirza Delibasic (PLA) Jorge Garbajosa (PLA) Marc Gasol (PLA) Andrew Gaze (PLA) Panagiotis Giannakis (PLA) Giuseppe Giergia (PLA) J.R. Holden (PLA) Dusan Ivkovic (PLA) Andrei Kirilenko (PLA) Vladimir Kondrashin (COA) Marcos Leite (PLA) Ettore Messina (COA) Juan Carlos Navarro (PLA) Andres Nocioni (PLA) Fabricio Oberto (PLA) Jose Ortiz (PLA) Amaury Pasos (PLA) Modesto Palauskas (PLA) Togo Soares (PLA) Penny Taylor (PLA) Amaya Valdemore (PLA) Ranko Zeravica (COA)
WOMEN’S VETERAN NOMINEES
1982 Cheyney State NCAA Final Four Team (TEA) Molly Bolin (PLA) Alline Banks Sprouse (PLA) Edmonton Commercial Grads (TEA) Fort Shaw Indians School (TEA) John Head (COA) Yolanda Laney (PLA) Nashville Business College (TEA) Patsy Neal (PLA)* Lometa Odom (PLA) Hazel Walker (PLA) Rosie Walker (PLA)* Valerie Walker (PLA)
VETERAN NOMINEES
1936 US Men’s National Team (TEA) 1972 US Men’s National Team (TEA) 1976 US Men’s National Team (TEA) Frank J. Basloe (CONT)* Malcolm Brown (PLA) Boid Buie (PLA) Mack Calvin (PLA) Jim Chones (PLA) Jack Coleman (PLA) Don Donoher (COA) Leroy Edwards (PLA) Leo Ferris (CONT) World B. Free (PLA) Travis Grant (PLA) Bobby “Showboat” Hall (CONT) Cam Henderson (COA) Robert Hopkins (PLA) Marques Johnson (PLA) Roger Kaiser (PLA)* Larry Kenon (PLA)* Kentucky Wesleyan 1966, 1968, 1969 (TEA) Butch Lee (PLA) Abe Lemons (COA) Henry Logan (PLA) Loyola of Chicago 1963 (TEA) Billy Markward (CONT) Bill Melchionni (PLA) Francis Meehan (PLA) Lucias Mitchell (COA) Richard Mullins (PLA) Willie Naulls (PLA) Ben Newman (CONT) Don Otten (PLA) Louis Pieri (CONT) William J. Reinhart (CONT) Mel Riebe (PLA) Glenn Roberts (PLA) Holcombe Rucker (CONT) Kenny Sailors (PLA) Bernard “Red” Sarachek (CONT) Fred Schaus (CONT) Paul Silas (PLA) Ralph Simpson (PLA) Dick Van Arsdale (PLA) Tom Van Arsdale (PLA) Cleo Vaughn (PLA) Lambert Will (CONT) Gus Williams (PLA) John Williamson (PLA) Max Zaslofsky (PLA)
NBA OFFICIATING PROGRAM REINSTATES ERIC LEWIS NEW YORK, Dec. 19, 2025 – The National Basketball Association (NBA) announced today that Eric Lewis has been reinstated to the league’s officiating program as an NBA G League official. He will begin officiating games at this weekend’s NBA G League Winter Showcase. Lewis, who retired in August 2023 while the NBA was investigating him for potential violations of its social media policy, has spent the previous two seasons officiating NCAA men’s basketball games. As part of a jointly agreed-upon path to a potential return, Lewis fully participated in an investigation into his social media activities during his time as an NBA official. In order to be eligible to rejoin the program, Lewis cleared several benchmarks, including stress management counseling and training on responsible use of social media. “Over nearly 20 years, Eric established himself as one of the NBA’s premier game officials,” said Byron Spruell, NBA President, League Operations. “While he made a mistake in engaging on social media, our investigation concluded that his behavior did not impact his ability to officiate games fairly and with integrity. We are confident he has learned from that experience and can properly serve the game again, first as an NBA G League official and potentially in a return as an NBA official.”
During his 19-year NBA career, Lewis officiated 1,161 regular-season games and 91 playoff games, including six NBA Finals games. Before joining the NBA officiating staff, Lewis refereed three seasons in the NBA G League. Prior to beginning his officiating career, Lewis played basketball at Bethune-Cookman University and Mainland High School in Daytona Beach, Fla.
USA still No. 1, Italy continue rise in latest FIBA World Ranking Boys, presented by Nike |
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DECEMBER 19, 2025 MIES (Switzerland) - The United States remained atop the FIBA World Ranking Boys, presented by Nike, after an undefeated 2025 summer and two youth event titles. The Top 10 saw a number of changes, led by Italy continuing their climb to No. 3 in the world. |
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USA were challenged for the first half of the FIBA U19 Basketball World Cup 2025 Final before racing away to beat Germany and lift the trophy. Earlier in the summer, they captured their ninth straight undefeated crown at the FIBA U16 AmeriCup with a win over Canada in the Final. This perfect record strengthened USA’s comfortable lead over No. 2 Spain. The first change in the rankings comes at No. 3, where Italy leapfrogged France. Italy jumped four spots in the previous rankings after a strong 2024 summer, and the country again produced excellent results this summer - taking third place at the FIBA U18 EuroBasket 2025 and fourth at FIBA U16 EuroBasket 2025. Following France are Serbia and then Lithuania, who improved two spots to No. 6 on the power of their second place at the FIBA U16 EuroBasket. Türkiye, Australia, Germany and Canada round out the rest of the Top 10 followed by Slovenia, who moved up one spot thanks to a third place at FIBA U19 World Cup and third at the FIBA U16 EuroBasket. New Zealand rose three spots to 12th after finishing fourth at the FIBA U19 World Cup, third at the FIBA U16 Asia Cup 2025 and first at the FIBA U17 Oceania Cup 2025. Israel are 13th followed by Latvia, who rose eight spots to 14 after fourth place at the FIBA U18 EuroBasket and then Brazil. The biggest climber in the field was Bahrain, whose eighth place at the FIBA U16 Asia Cup moved them 38 spots higher to 56th. Switzerland used their eighth place at the home FIBA U19 World Cup to jump 28 spots to 32nd while Côte d'Ivoire rose 27 spots to 23rd after winning FIBA U16 AfroBasket 2025. Guam rose 21 spots to 80th after placing fourth at the FIBA U17 Oceania Cup while Venezuela jumped 20 places to 29th after taking third at the FIBA U16 AmeriCup. For more information about the method used in the calculation of the FIBA World Ranking Boys, please refer to the "How it works" section. Click here to view the full FIBA World Ranking Boys, presented by Nike. The NBA announced today the All-Tournament Team for the Emirates NBA Cup 2025:  Jalen Brunson, New York Knicks
Luka Dončić, Los Angeles Lakers
De’Aaron Fox, San Antonio Spurs
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Oklahoma City Thunder
Karl-Anthony Towns, New York Knicks
The All-Tournament Team was selected by a media panel of 20 voters. Selections were based on player performance in both Group Play and the Knockout Rounds, with players chosen regardless of position. The full list of voters and complete voting results can be found here. NBA FAMILY AND GLOBAL BASKETBALL COMMUNITY TO ENGAGE HUNDREDS OF MILLIONS OF YOUTH AND FANS IN CELEBRATION OF WORLD BASKETBALL DAY – NBA and YMCA Announce Year-Long Collaboration in Recognition of YMCA’s 175th Anniversary by Supporting Millions of Youth and Families – – NBA’s Social and Digital Channels Will Feature NBA Players Speaking About What World Basketball Day Means to Them and Highlights of Activations Around the World – NEW YORK, Dec. 18, 2025 – The NBA family and the global basketball community, including the International Basketball Federation (FIBA), USA Basketball, the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA), the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame, the National Basketball Coaches Association (NBCA) and the National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS), will celebrate the third annual World Basketball Day on Sunday, Dec. 21 by engaging hundreds of millions of youth and fans in the U.S. and around the world through clinics, social media campaigns, in-arena activities and more. In conjunction with World Basketball Day and the 175th anniversary of the YMCA – where Dr. James Naismith first introduced the game of basketball in 1891 – the NBA and YMCA are announcing an extension of their longstanding relationship by collaborating on year-long youth basketball and community-focused programming that will support the YMCA and the 6 million youth it serves in the U.S. annually. The collaboration will also feature renovations of some YMCA facilities across the country. In celebration of World Basketball Day, the NBA’s global and localized social and digital media channels, which reach hundreds of millions of fans globally, will feature sound bites from NBA players about what World Basketball Day means to them, along with highlights of World Basketball Day activations around the world. Additionally, in collaboration with local federations and partners, the Jr. NBA/Jr. WNBA and NBA Basketball School programs that reach tens of millions of youth and coaches worldwide each year will have access to a playbook with exclusive basketball training and education content. Established in 2023 by the United Nations, World Basketball Day is observed annually on Dec. 21, the date Dr. James Naismith first introduced the game of basketball at the YMCA in Springfield, Mass., in 1891, and celebrates cross-cultural unity through a shared passion for the game and the values it represents. Today, basketball is the fastest-growing sport in the world and the No. 2 sport globally. NBA fans are encouraged to participate by tagging @nba, @nbacares and @jrnba on social media using the hashtag #WorldBasketballDay. World Basketball Day will also serve as a “3-for-1 Day” in NBA All-Star Voting. On Dec. 21, fans with an NBA ID can submit one ballot each day via the NBA App and NBA.com to have their vote count three times. Below are additional World Basketball Day celebrations in the U.S. and around the world: U.S. - The Atlanta Hawks, Boston Celtics, Charlotte Hornets, Cleveland Cavaliers, Dallas Mavericks, Denver Nuggets, Detroit Pistons, Indiana Pacers, Los Angeles Lakers, LA Clippers, Miami Heat, Milwaukee Bucks, New Orleans Pelicans, Orlando Magic, Phoenix Suns, Sacramento Kings, Utah Jazz and Washington Wizards will celebrate World Basketball Day through a variety of events and activities in their arenas, local markets and on their channels.
- On Dec. 13, the Gateway Region YMCA in St. Louis, which NBA champion Jayson Tatum (Celtics) attended as a child, hosted a youth basketball clinic and announced renovations to be made with support from NBA Cares and The Jayson Tatum Foundation.
- On World Basketball Day, former NBA player Taj Gibson will lead a Jr. NBA/Jr. WNBA clinic in New York City for 200 youth from the YMCA of Greater New York.
- On World Basketball Day, the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame will host a basketball clinic in Springfield for youth from local YMCAs, led by former NBA player Michael Carter-Williams.
- The NBA, in collaboration with New York Cares, provided 150 Wilson basketballs to students across New York City as part of World Basketball Day and NBA Cares Season of Giving.
- The WNBA will highlight 21 ways to celebrate World Basketball Day on its social channels.
- The NBA G League will celebrate World Basketball Day on its social channels as part of the NBA G League Winter Showcase in Orlando, Fla.
- The NBA 2K League will celebrate World Basketball Day on its social channels and with a World Basketball Day-themed segment during the NBA 2K League Tournament 2 Finals between the Wizards and Spurs that will livestream on Twitch and take place at District E – the Wizards’ premier esports and entertainment venue. Fans and youth in attendance will also be able to play NBA 2K alongside 2K League players and creators.
- A new World Basketball Day-themed T-shirt is available for sale at NBAStore.com and Fanatics.com.
International - On World Basketball Day, FIBA will announce the inductees to the FIBA Hall of Fame Class of 2026.
- The NBA will honor Dr. Naismith, who was born in Almonte, Ontario, Canada, on its localized channels in Canada.
- Nineteen coaches from the Africa Coaches Program – part of NBA Africa and the Basketball Africa League’s ongoing commitment to developing coaching talent across the continent – will conduct coaching clinics in Burkina Faso, Cameroon, Egypt, Eritrea, Gabon, Libya, Malawi, Morocco, Mozambique, Nigeria, Rwanda, Tunisia and Senegal.
- Local basketball players and content creators from Australia, Indonesia, Japan and the Philippines will be featured in World Basketball Day content across the NBA’s localized channels in those countries. The NBA Stores in the Philippines will host World Basketball Day scavenger hunts where fans can win NBA merchandise and discounts at the stores. Beginning on World Basketball Day, fans in the Philippines who purchase official NBA merchandise at the stores will also receive a complimentary World Basketball Day T-shirt while supplies last.
- Local creators and the basketball community in India will use the #WorldBasketballDay hashtag to share their favorite basketball memories on social media.
- The NBA’s localized channels in Latin America will celebrate World Basketball Day with educational content, multilingual assets and interactive posts highlighting basketball’s global impact.
Executive, Coach and Player Quotes: NBA Commissioner Adam Silver: “World Basketball Day takes on a special meaning this year as we commemorate the 175th anniversary of the YMCA, where the sport was first invented 134 years ago. We are thrilled to join our many friends in the basketball community to celebrate the game’s impact and influence around the world.” President and CEO of YMCA of the USA Suzanne McCormick: “The YMCA and the NBA share a long-standing belief in the power of sport to build community. As we celebrate the YMCA’s 175th anniversary, World Basketball Day offers a meaningful moment to honor our history as the birthplace of basketball and to highlight its ongoing impact. We are honored to join the NBA in celebrating a game that inspires connection, belonging, and personal growth for millions of young people. This collaboration allows us to broaden our collective reach and ensure that the benefits of youth sports are felt in every community we serve.” NBA champion and Boston Celtics forward Jayson Tatum: “World Basketball Day is a chance to celebrate the game and impact it has on people everywhere. Basketball has had such a positive influence on my life, and I hope I can pass along the joy and skills I’ve learned, both on-and-off the court, to the next generation.” WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert: “World Basketball Day is a powerful reminder that this game has the unique ability to unite communities in every corner of the world. As the WNBA continues to reach new heights on the court and in culture, we are dedicated to opening more doors – expanding access, visibility and opportunity so that girls around the globe can experience the joy and possibility that basketball creates. We are proud to stand alongside the global basketball family in championing the next generation of leaders, superstars and game-changers who will carry this sport forward.” NBA G League President Shareef Abdur-Rahim: “The NBA G League is proud to celebrate the third annual World Basketball Day during the Winter Showcase Semifinals. Our league remains committed to creating meaningful opportunities for players everywhere, and this celebration underscores how global that mission truly is.” Basketball Africa League President Amadou Gallo Fall “World Basketball Day underscores basketball’s unique ability to unite people, inspire ambition, and drive positive change around the world. Through the Basketball Africa League, we are making a long-term investment in the future of the game across Africa by prioritizing leadership, education and opportunity at the grassroots and professional levels. This year, 19 coaches from 13 countries will deliver coaching clinics to more than 600 coaches across the continent – amplifying knowledge, strengthening local ecosystems, and accelerating the growth of African basketball. We are proud to join the global basketball community and the United Nations in celebrating a game that continues to open doors and bring communities together.” NBA Take-Two Media CEO Andrew Perlmutter: “At the NBA 2K League, we’ve seen firsthand how basketball inspires connection and competition in both physical and digital arenas. We’re reminded that the values of teamwork, resilience and passion transcend borders – whether on the hardwood or in the virtual world playing hoops with friends.” FIBA Secretary General Andreas Zagklis: “World Basketball Day is a time to celebrate how a shared passion for basketball continues to unite us all as one global community. It’s also a time to showcase how our sport has an exciting and positive force for good – both on-and-off the court. From the grassroots level in every corner of the world to the elite stage, that collective love and pride in what basketball gives us all is something we not only embrace but also look to grow. We can all use World Basketball Day as an opportunity to promote the game by encouraging family, friends and colleagues to pick up a ball and join our ever-growing global basketball community.” USA Basketball CEO Jim Tooley: “As we celebrate World Basketball Day, we are grateful to be a part of the global basketball community. Every year, USA Basketball has the opportunity to have our national teams visit places around the globe, exposing American players to new cities, countries, continents, and more importantly, fans and their cultures. Further, we continue to grow the game in the U.S. through our USA Basketball Foundation and youth initiatives. We’re proud to play a role in bringing the world together through the game of basketball.” National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) President Charlie Baker: “As the global basketball community marks World Basketball Day and the anniversary of the game’s invention by Dr. James Naismith, the NCAA is proud to join the celebration. College basketball is a life-changing experience for tens of thousands of young men and women annually, and we honor the skills and lessons the game teaches off the court as well as on it. We come together with everyone who loves the global game of basketball to commemorate its beginnings on December 21st.” Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame CEO John Doleva: “World Basketball Day celebrates the impact of basketball and the game’s ability to unite a global community. This day recognizes the invention of the game in 1981 by Dr. James Naismith at the YMCA International Training Academy, here in Springfield, Mass. The YMCA’s early stewardship helped turn his modest creation into the worldwide sporting phenomenon we know it as today. We are proud to commemorate this day by honoring the game’s original values and intent while also celebrating its milestones, growth and continued legacy.” Indiana Pacers Head Coach and National Basketball Coaches Association (NBCA) President Rick Carlisle: “The NBCA is proud to stand alongside the global basketball community in celebrating World Basketball Day and the positive impact that the game has on youth and fans around the world. For decades, NBA coaches have provided training, education, and mentoring opportunities to coaches around the world. Coaches play a vital role in pushing the game forward, and the NBCA’s efforts will continue to have an impact on the next generation of American and international coaches and players.” National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS) CEO Dr. Karissa Niehoff: “The NFHS is proud to join partners around the globe in celebrating World Basketball Day. This day shines a spotlight on Dr. James Naismith’s extraordinary legacy and the spirit of amateur athletics that continues to unite communities everywhere. His creativity sparked a sport that now connects millions, inspiring teamwork, opportunity and growth for students worldwide. Today, we honor not only the origins of the game but also the enduring impact basketball has on learning, competition and community around the world.” LUDACRIS, SHABOOZEY AND CORTIS TO HEADLINE NBA CROSSOVER CONCERT SERIES AT LOS ANGELES CONVENTION CENTER - NBA Beats & Brunch to feature celebrity DJs, influencers, and NBA personalities- - All Performances Included with a Ticket to NBA Crossover, On Sale Now at NBAEvents.com- LOS ANGELES, Dec. 18, 2025 – The NBA today announced the lineup of musical performers for NBA Crossover, taking place February 12–15 at the Los Angeles Convention Center as part of NBA All-Star 2026. This year’s series will deliver three unforgettable nights of music and culture featuring hip-hop icon Ludacris, genre-defying star Shaboozey and boundary-pushing originals CORTIS. All performances are included with an NBA Crossover ticket, on sale now at NBAEvents.com. The festivities tip off Thursday, February 12, with NBA Crossover Opening Night featuring CORTIS, the five-member K-pop group redefining the genre. Their debut EP entered the Billboard 200 at No. 15, making them the only 2025 rookie group to achieve this milestone. With over 100 million streams in their first month and a rapidly growing fanbase of more than 13 million followers across TikTok and Instagram, CORTIS is hailed by Rolling Stone as “the coolest K-pop debut of the year.” Photo available here. On Friday, February 13, the Michelob ULTRA Courtside Concert will showcase Ludacris, a 25-year music veteran and cultural icon who has sold more than 24 million albums worldwide and delivered hits like “Stand Up,” “Money Maker,” and “My Chick Bad.” This October marked the 25th anniversary of his groundbreaking debut album Back for the First Time. In his storied career, he’s received three Grammy Awards for "Best Rap Song," "Best Rap/Sung Collaboration," and "Best Rap Album," and secured five number-one hits on the Billboard Hot 100. Beyond music, he is a renowned actor best known for his iconic role as fan favorite “Tej” in the global box office Fast & The Furious Franchise, a philanthropist through The Ludacris Foundation, and a creative force behind Netflix’s Karma’s World. Headshot available here. On Saturday, February 14, Shaboozey, the 8X GRAMMY®-nominated singer-songwriter, closes out a third-straight night of headlining music with the NBA Crossover Saturday Night Concert. Shaboozey’s platinum-certified album Where I’ve Been, Isn’t Where I’m Going debuted in the Billboard 200 Top 5, and his diamond-certified anthem “A Bar Song (Tipsy)” holds the record for the longest-leading Hot 100 No. 1. With his follow-up single “Good News” recently reaching #1 on Billboard’s Country Airplay Chart and earning multiple GRAMMY® nominations, Shaboozey continues to dominate charts and headlines with his bold artistry and cultural influence. Headshot available here. In conjunction with the three concerts, NBA Crossover will also host NBA Beats & Brunch on Saturday and Sunday from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. PT, featuring celebrity DJs, influencers and NBA personalities. This year, NBA Crossover returns as the league’s ultimate fan experience from Thursday, Feb. 12 through Sunday, Feb. 15 at the Los Angeles Convention Center, covering more than 300,000 square feet. Crossover showcases the NBA’s deep connection to art, fashion, music and technology, giving fans a front-row seat to action packed basketball programming at G League Park, exclusive opportunities at NBA Creator Court, and festival-style music experiences at Hardwood Central –including the Michelob ULTRA Courtside Concert with Ludacris on Friday night. During marquee in-arena events at Intuit Dome and Kia Forum, Hardwood Central will evolve into a watch-party destination, complete with live commentary and special giveaways. With a single ticket, fans gain access to the full spectrum of experiences at NBA Crossover – including access to all concerts and experiences, with VIP packages offering exclusive stage views and earlier venue entry. Tickets are available now at NBAEvents.com. USA, Spain and Canada still flying high in FIBA World Ranking Girls, presented by Nike |
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DECEMBER 18, 2025 MIES (Switzerland) - There's a familiar and positive feel on the podium of the updated FIBA World Ranking Girls, presented by Nike, after leaders USA, Spain and Canada all celebrated success in locking down the top three spots once again. |
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The all-conquering USA lived to up the hype as usual with an exceptional performance at the FIBA U19 Women's Basketball World Cup 2025 in Brno, Czechia. They continued their amazing gold rush by securing a fourth straight crown, their 11th title in total. USA will also be out to continue their dominance of next year's FIBA U17 Women's Basketball World Cup in the wake of winning more silverware at the FIBA U16 Women's AmeriCup 2026. It's also been a fantastic year at youth level for Spain, who retain 2nd spot in the rankings off the back of taking the third place at the U19 Worlds - as well as being crowned champions at both the FIBA U18 Women's EuroBasket 2025 and FIBA U16 Women's EuroBasket 2025. Canada consolidate third position after their rising stars put in some memorable performances. That included reaching the U19 Semi-Finals in Brno, as well as being confirmed runners up at the FIBA U16 Women's AmeriCup 2025. Australia are pushing hard to reel in Canada after they moved up one spot into 4th in the rankings, mainly due to the Gems reaching the FIBA U19 Women's Basketball World Cup 2025 Final. They also delivered success by winning the FIBA U16 Women's Asia Cup 2025 and the FIBA U17 Women's Oceania Cup 2025. There was a further boost for Slovenia who continue their momentum with a move of two places up to 6th place. This was largely fueled by landing as runners-up at the FIBA U16 Women's EuroBasket 2025. Italy can now proudly reflect being a Top 10 nation after they climbed four places into 7th. They made the Quarter-Finals at both the U18 and U16 FIBA Women's EuroBasket tournaments. Serbia have also been flying and they rocketed skywards by five spots into 8th, having reached the Quarter-Finals at U18, as well as sealing a top five finish at U16. Similarly, Poland are big climbers too, leaping 8 positions into 11th place, having attained a top five finish at U18 and the Quarter-Finals of U16. Egypt continue to impress and are close to breaking into the landmark Top 20 of the rankings. They posted an improvement of four ranking places and now sit 21st after winning the FIBA U16 Women's AfroBasket 2025. Cook Islands can lay claim to being the biggest climbers of all. They soared a massive 38 places into 62nd after a fantastic podium effort at the FIBA U17 Women's Oceania Cup 2025 when they finished third. Other notable positives see Romania jump 22 places into 23rd thanks to a strong display at the FIBA U16 Women's EuroBasket 2025. Nigeria move up 9 spots into 26th by finishing 12th at the FIBA Women's Basketball World Cup, while Indonesia rise by 11 places into 51st after finishing third at the FIBA U16 Women's Asia Cup, Division B. For more information about the method used in the calculation of the FIBA World Ranking Girls, presented by Nike, please refer to the 'How it Works' section. Click here to view the full FIBA World Ranking Girls, presented by Nike. |
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