MIES (Switzerland) – On International Women’s Day 2026, FIBA 3x3 shares not only the growth of the women’s game but also the powerful stories behind it. Over the past 12 months, the "Women in 3x3" campaign has shone a spotlight on athletes, officials and leaders whose journeys extend far beyond the half-court, showcasing how the sport empowers women to inspire communities and redefine what is possible.
Launched in 2025, the campaign was designed to highlight the voices and experiences of women across the global 3x3 basketball ecosystem. Through personal stories and reflections, it captured how players and pioneers are shaping the sport while creating meaningful impact in their communities. From Olympic champions to rising stars, from referees to ambassadors, these stories reveal a shared thread: resilience, leadership and a commitment to opening doors for the next generation.
Creating pathways for the next generation
For Canadian star Paige Crozon, the mission is clear. A FIBA 3x3 champion and one of the sport’s most recognizable leaders, Crozon spoke passionately about building pathways for young girls to follow. Her work both on and off the court reflects a growing movement within the sport—one where success is measured not just in wins, but in how many others are inspired to pick up a ball and dream bigger.
Across the world in Mongolia, Khulan Onolbaatar embodies that spirit of determination. Competing on home soil at the FIBA 3x3 World Cup, she spoke of the pride and responsibility that comes with representing her nation in a sport that continues to grow rapidly across Asia. Her story captures the warrior mindset that defines so many athletes in the 3x3 community.
Resilience has also been a defining theme. Austria’s Rebekka "Bekki" Kalaydjiev shared an inspiring comeback story after battling serious injury, demonstrating that perseverance and belief can carry athletes through the most difficult moments. Meanwhile, Spain’s veteran leader Vega Gimeno reflected on how setbacks, such as the disappointment of missing the Olympic stage, can become catalysts for renewed determination.
Breaking barriers beyond the court
The campaign also highlighted how 3x3 basketball continues to break barriers beyond the players themselves. Serbian referee Jasmina Juras made history as the first woman to officiate a men’s 3x3 Olympic final, an achievement that underscores the sport’s commitment to inclusion and opportunity across all roles.
Olympic gold medalist Svenja Brunckhorst provided another perspective on the broader meaning of success. Her reflections after Germany’s historic triumph in Paris 2024 emphasized that the journey represents more than medals. It represents belief, teamwork and the power of sport to unite people.
Leadership and compassion also define the legacy of Canada’s Michelle Plouffe, whose dedication to both excellence and empathy has made her one of the most respected figures in the women’s game. Her story highlights how elite athletes can use their platforms to elevate those around them.
Inspiring communities around the world
The campaign’s global reach was further illustrated through stories like Egypt’s Soraya Mohamed, who dreams of representing her country on the Olympic stage at LA 2028 while inspiring young athletes back home. Similarly, Bahrain’s Bayan Salman has embraced the responsibility of growing women’s basketball both on and off the court in her region.
For others, basketball has been a lifeline. Jovana Vukoje found refuge in the game after being displaced as a refugee, using her journey as motivation to push forward and inspire others facing similar challenges. Her story stands as a reminder that sport can offer hope and belonging even in the most difficult circumstances.
The campaign also featured influential voices helping shape the future of the discipline. American icon Elena Delle Donne has played a key role in elevating the profile of USA women’s 3x3, while Australian Vanessa Devlin, Spain’s Ari Geli and Hailey Van Lith represent women carrying the sport forward with humility, leadership and passion.
Together, these stories form a powerful portrait of a discipline that continues to grow both competitively and culturally. As 3x3 basketball expands across continents and communities, the women driving that growth remain at the heart of its success.
On International Women’s Day, FIBA 3x3 celebrates these athletes, officials and leaders -- not only for what they achieve on the court, but for the impact they create beyond it.
Because in 3x3 basketball, the women shaping the game today are also inspiring the game of tomorrow.
FIBA