This morning, the atmosphere is alive with focus and anticipation as players gather on the court. Some stretch quietly, centering themselves before the action begins. Others exchange laughter with competitors from opposing teams, showing the camaraderie that has already formed. For many, it’s a first-time, world-stage moment and the result of months of training.
A Powerful Opening to a Historic Weekend
Last night’s Opening Ceremony unfolded with rhythm, culture, and powerful moments of unity. The evening opened with an energetic performance by the Guaynabo Battelers and their band, an all-female baton-twirling and music ensemble that set the tone with infectious energy.
Delegations from 27 nations marched proudly in the Parade of Athletes, filling the arena with colour and determination. The ceremony continued with inclusive and cultural performances, including Danza 21—a dance group for individuals with Down syndrome from the Fundación Puertorriqueña Síndrome Down—alongside Gíbaro de Puerto Rico, a renowned cultural organisation dedicated to preserving Puerto Rican folklore through music and dance. Both groups brought the crowd to its feet, celebrating the island’s culture and the spirit of inclusion at the heart of the competition.
A moving moment followed as a symbolic ball of light was passed between players from each nation. The venue was hushed as it traveled hand to hand, representing a light that could not be extinguished: the light of inclusion. Stopping finally, as Puerto Rican basketball legend Piculín Ortiz and Special Olympics Puerto Rico rhythmic gymnast Natalia Rubio together ignited the Flame of Hope.
The celebration surged again as Puerto Rican singing sensation Luis Vázquez closed the Ceremony with his hit “Birim Bim Bim.” The court transformed into a massive dance party of vibrant colours with teams joining together as screens across Distrito T-Mobile’s Popular Plaza displayed Puerto Rico’s lush landscapes and vibrant towns.
Meaningful Involvement at the Heart of the Game
Unified 3x3 basketball thrives on meaningful involvement. Each team includes 3 athletes and two Unified partners, players without intellectual disabilities, who contribute equally. On a court at all times will be two athletes and one Unified partner working together to put their team on the board. Coaches prepared for the Cup working with their team to play into and elevate each players’ strengths to find a team rhythm and harmony.
With 19 men’s and 17 women’s teams competing, this World Cup marks a major milestone built through years of collaboration between Special Olympics Puerto Rico and the FIBA Foundation. Since 2019, Special Olympics and the FIBA Foundation have been partners using basketball as a powerful tool for social development and to promote inclusion for people with intellectual disabilities.
The partnership is rooted in shared values of equality, empowerment, and access to sport, and has focused on expanding opportunities for Unified 3x3 Basketball through FIBA and Special Olympics events like the FIBA Open and the Unified 3x3 Basketball World Cup.
Following the Stories Behind the Scores
Throughout the tournament, Special Olympics will follow journeys from Special Olympics Africa, Special Olympics Asia Pacific, Special Olympics East Asia, Special Olympics Latin America, Special Olympics Middle East/North Africa, Special Olympics North America capturing training, challenges, and the action behind every play.
Celebration Beyond the Court
Join the jam-packed weekend with the following events:
- 5 Dec: FIBA Foundation Mini Basketball Clinic
- 6 Dec: Motor Activity Training Program Demonstration
- 7 Dec: Celebrity & Sponsor Unified Sports Experience Match
- 5 – 7 Dec: Sports Clinics and Health Fairs
With the first whistle, San Juan’s courts ignite with fierce competition. Follow along…
