5th edition of the FIBA Open, bigger than ever
MIES- The 5th edition of the FIBA Open took place over the weekend and despite the unforgiving weather on Saturday, was the biggest edition to date. Over 200 teams and 800 players participated in the event to the delight of the 3000 visitors.
With 13 different categories, ranging from baby basketball (starting at 3 years old) to Swiss Tour and Special Olympics, everyone interested were able to play, which is in line with the FIBA Open's mission to be inclusive.
The weather conditions on Saturday meant that the event had to be held at different locations. One covered court at the House of Basketball and 8 additional courts in 3 gyms of the region were used to host all the different categories. With shuttle buses bringing players and visitors to and from the different locations, each gym was packed and had a great atmosphere.
Clint Capela visited both the FIBA Headquarters and one of the gyms to sign autographs for his fans and promote his gala game.
Sunday’s sun allowed all games to be played outdoors on 7 courts around the House of Basketball and 4 courts at the centre sportif de Versoix.
The FIBA Open being a step of the Swiss Tour, 12 teams competed on Sunday in this category. Team Stride won the final, earning a spot in the Swiss Tour final in Zurich.
Fans were impressed with the dunk and shooting contest where great skills were demonstrated.
For the first time this year, a Special Olympics category was created with teams from 9 European countries making the trip to take part in the tournament. On this occasion, a MOU was signed between the International Basketball Foundation and Special Olympics.
Special Olympics ambassador and Olympic Gold Medalist Sam Perkins was also present at the tournament to support the athletes and sign autographs.
Ex-NBA Star Ronny Turiaf made a surprise appearance on both days also taking pictures and signing autographs for fans.
This 5th edition was dedicated to the former IBF and FIBA President Yvan Mainini who was the instigator of the event.
See you at the next edition on 13 and 14 June 2020 where we hope to have a record number of 300 teams!
