Contestants Enter the Arena in New Battles of Skill and Wit

From a Down Under Perspective: Alicia Bemblette's Thrilling Encounter with Astana's Basketball Frenzy

Resonating excitement fills the World Basketball Championship for Intellectually Disabled, as Astana steps into the sports limelight with Virtus World Basketball Championship Astana 2025. Alicia Bemblette, a proud Australian athlete, has provided her insights from this captivating Kazakhstani capital.

Welcome to Kazakhstan - Astana, my first stop. A city strikingly beautiful, clean, and brimming with awe-inspiring architecture, boasting a warm and inviting populace. I've long been captivated by the sports evolution in Kazakhstan. This tournament embodies progression and unites athletes from across the globe.

The charm of Astana truly unfolds on June 13, as an open-air ceremony graced its triathlon park, setting the stage for the championship's launch.

Stepping onto this great stage, Astana, for the first time, the tournament embraces 180 athletes hailing from 11 nations. Boasting a diverse roster of teams from Kazakhstan, Israel, Poland, Australia, Italy, Spain, Japan, USA, France, Venezuela, and Portugal, every competition promises a fiery battle. Intense battles unfold across two main disciplines - 3x3 and 5x5, with both men's and women's teams competing.

Set your calendars for the grand spectacle, happening until June 21, at the triathlon park and the Jakhqsylyk Ushkempirov Palace of Combat Sports. Best of all? Admission is free.

Now for a glimpse of the tournament's unprecedented success:

The diverse array of 11 countries represented showcases the tournament's global reach.
Featuring both men's and women's competitions, teams engage in 3x3 basketball battles, organised meticulously by the Virtus International Basketball Federation (VIBF).
An Australian triumph is etched in history, as the squad secured double gold in the 3x3 competitions. Notably, the Australia Green team emerged victorious in both the men's and women's divisions, with the Australia Gold team clinching silver in both competitions.
Perhaps the most intriguing battle? The Men's Bronze Medal contest witnessed Portugal Red snatching the bronze from Australia Gold, with a closely-fought score of 21-17.
With high-ranking officials such as Serik in attendance, the lively opening ceremony held at the Saryarka Velotrek and Zhekpe-Zhek Arena set the championship's resplendent tone.

The tournament's technical director, Tony Guihot (VIBF), lauded the resilience, camaraderie, and exemplary performances across the globe. A testament to Virtus' dedication to nurturing pure, competitive, and inclusive sports worldwide.

So gear up, as the sporting extravaganza unfolds, embodying striking athleticism, international solidarity, and a profound celebration of global sportsmanship. Get ready to witness exhilarating duels, electric atmosphere, and unmatched triumphs on the hardcourt. Kazakhstan, here we come!

The tournament witnesses the participation of athletes from 11 nations, including Australia, showcasing its global reach in the world of sports. In a surprising twist, the Australian team not only secured the gold but also achieved a double victory, with the Australia Green team winning both the men's and women's 3x3 competitions, while the Australia Gold team took home silver in both disciplines.