From Birmingham 2022 Podium to inaugural World Championships
Canada Claim Double Gold in Landmark 3x3 Worlds
In South Africa’s North West Province, Sun City became the setting for a defining moment in the evolution of Wheelchair Basketball. For the first time, the sport’s 3x3 format was given its own World Championship. What followed was a fast, physical, and highly competitive showcase of talent from around the globe.
Held from 1 to 3 August in the resort’s Superbowl Arena, the IWBF 3x3 Open World Championships featured 14 men’s and 8 women’s national teams. Canada claimed gold in both competitions, defeating Spain in both finals.
In the men’s final, Canada edged Spain 14 to 9. In the women’s game, they delivered a commanding 17 to 12 win. Poland and Australia earned bronze in the men’s and women’s competitions, respectively.
Among the standout performers were Canada’s Kady Dandeneau and Colin Higgins, who were named Most Valuable Players of the women’s and men’s tournaments.
Many of the teams competing in Sun City had already made their mark in the 3x3 format at the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games, where 3x3 Wheelchair Basketball made its debut at a multi-sport event for the first time.
That milestone helped raise the sport’s profile, offered Athletes a major competitive platform, and encouraged nations like Canada, Australia, and England to invest further. Canada and Australia, who reached the podium in Birmingham, have since confirmed their status as leaders in the discipline. England, bronze medallists in both events in 2022, remain among the nations building strong foundations for the future.
Spain’s strength in Wheelchair Basketball has long been recognised, and their success in Sun City confirmed their ability to adapt that excellence to the 3x3 format. With a deep talent pool, strong domestic competition, and experienced Athletes, both their men’s and women’s teams demonstrated why Spain continues to be one of Europe’s most respected programmes.
Poland also underlined their standing as a force in European Wheelchair Basketball. After reaching the final of the IWBF 3x3 Europe Cup, they delivered a dominant performance in Sun City to secure the men’s bronze with a 21 to 8 win over Austria. Their consistent presence at the top level reflects a national programme that has embraced the speed and tactical demands of 3x3.
The growth of 3x3 Wheelchair Basketball has been rapid and far-reaching, offering a more accessible format that continues to attract new players and nations. For many countries, the appeal lies in its simplicity. With just four players needed, it is far more viable logistically for developing teams to travel and compete. The format also offers flexibility, with games able to be held indoors or outdoors, opening the door to be more inclusive and adaptable.
For Athletes like Canada’s Elodie Tessier and Kady Dandeneau, Sun City was more than just another tournament. It was a chance to compete, connect, and witness the impact of 3x3 on a global scale.
“We’ve been having a really good run. It’s been phenomenal,” said Tessier. “It’s nice to see countries that never had the opportunity to be part of a major tournament now competing on this stage.”
Her teammate Dandeneau agreed. “It’s really cool. If I’m correct, it’s the first event the IWBF has hosted in Africa. So it’s awesome that teams get to come from their home countries and compete in a World Championship. Hopefully it’s a good sign for the future of their programmes.”
Both players praised the fast, physical nature of 3x3 and the deep trust within their team. “There’s no time to focus on anything else. It’s just basketball,” said Dandeneau. “That’s what I love.”
Reflecting on their past experience at Birmingham 2022, the pair spoke about the power of inclusion.
“One of the great things about the Commonwealth Games was seeing a stand-up game and then immediately after a wheelchair game,” said Dandeneau. “It’s just Athletes playing sport. That’s the message.”
South Africa’s Samkelisiwe Mbatha, who made her international debut in Birmingham, echoed the sentiment. “We didn’t know much about 3x3 before Birmingham. We learned a lot. Since then, we’ve been growing stronger,” she said. “It was emotional. I’m proud of myself and proud of my country.”
Mbatha, sees sport as a vehicle for growth and empowerment. “It teaches discipline, confidence, and teamwork. You have to be quick thinking, fast, and proud of what you do.”
Looking ahead, all three Athletes expressed excitement for the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games, where 3x3 Wheelchair Basketball is set to return.
“We’ll be in Glasgow playing 3x3,” said Dandeneau, smiling. “How cool is that!”
From its roots in streetball to the podium at Birmingham 2022, and now a dedicated world championship in Sun City, the discipline has taken its place on the international sporting map. With its return as a showcase event at the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games already confirmed, 3x3 Wheelchair Basketball is not just growing. It is here to stay.
