The Namibian Basketball Federation (NBF) will next weekend host its first regional 3×3 tournament at Rietfontein in the Otjozondjupa region. The event takes place from 26 to 28 November.
Organisers have assured all participating regions that all is set and in place for the tournament, which will see a total of eight regions coming together for the NBF’s maiden regional 3×3 tournament.
The confirmed participating regions are Khomas, Erongo, Kavango East, Oshana, Oshikoto, Zambezi, Ohangwena and host Otjozondjupa.
According to NBF president Nigel Mubita, the event will mark a huge milestone in the NBF’s continuous efforts of taking the sport to all corners of the country and according all Namibians an opportunity to play basketball.
Mubita also explained that the tournament is part of their long-term strategy to grow the sport at grassroots level and with the remarkable growth of 3×3 basketball worldwide, the NBF has no intentions to remain behind in that space.
“This tournament is mainly aimed at strategically moving all basketball activities away from the Khomas region, so that we also include all other regions. This is also in line with our five-year programme, which speaks about having national programmes that focus on developing basketball in all regions, especially at grassroots level,” he said.
NBF marketing manager Kenaendo Karamata also expressed excitement with the upcoming tournament, saying it will be a great platform for all regions to showcase their talents.
“We are expecting it to be highly competitive and with this platform, it will also help us as regions to meet up and exchange notes on how we can better develop basketball as a national sport code,” said Karamata.
She added: “It’s very important because through this tournament, not only will coaches scout for players, but it will help players become more competitive and put in more work on and off the court.”