Bearlina 3×3 tournament gives Namibia’s girls’ basketball a platform

The inaugural Bearlina 3×3 Girls Basketball Tournament brought girls’ basketball into focus in Windhoek last Saturday, with 50 under-18 players taking part alongside coaches and technical officials. The event was held at the Deutsche Höhere Privatschule and gave young players an opportunity to compete in a dedicated girls’ setting.

Organised by Jacobina Uushona and Rachel Tjite, the tournament was created to give female players more visibility, encourage connections and strengthen the local basketball community. The programme also offered a stage for emerging talent, competitive match-ups and sportsmanship among the participants.

The 3×3 format was selected for its quick pace and accessibility. It also allows more players to take part than a conventional five-player-a-side competition, increasing playing opportunities for girls who are developing in the sport.

The event was conducted through the FIBA Foundation Youth Leaders Mascot Education Program and forms part of the wider build-up to the 2026 FIBA Women’s World Cup. That tournament will be hosted in Berlin, Germany, from 4 to 13 September 2026.

Uushona said the Bearlina tournament was not designed as a direct route into national-team selection. Its focus is instead on creating regular opportunities for girls to play, meet other players and help build a stronger base for women’s basketball. Participant Twapewa Nakanyala said the experience allowed her to enjoy competing against other girls, make new friends and recognise her ability to take leadership on court.

The youth series will continue at DHPS on 29 August 2026, when U/12, U/14 and U/16 girls’ tournaments are scheduled to take place. The competitions will bring this year’s Bearlina circuit to a close.