The Basketball Federation of Bhutan launched an initiative aimed at finding the country’s next generation of basketball stars. As part of this effort, a 3×3 basketball tournament was held in Thimphu for the first time over the weekend. Boys and girls from 13 middle and higher secondary schools in Paro and Thimphu participated in the inaugural tournament. 3×3 is a fast-paced, half-court version of traditional basketball played with three players on each team and one hoop.
According to the federation, this tournament is a key step in strengthening Bhutan’s future national basketball programme.
The aim is to identify young talent while promoting the 3×3 format, which is strongly encouraged by the International Basketball Federation.
Nima Gyaltshen, a coach with the Basketball Federation of Bhutan said, “The reason for the federation conducting this 3×3 tournament is to have a chance in the international tournaments. Till now, we were not allowed to play in this format in the international matches because we have not hosted it in Bhutan so far.”
The tournament aims to develop a strong foundation of skills from the junior level among the students.
The Lungtenzampa girls’ and Changangkha boys’ teams are the winners of the tournament.
Expressing her delight, Kinzang Lhamo, a student participant from Lungtenzampa Middle Secondary School said, “We, the students of Lungtenzampa, are proud to have emerged as the winners. We look forward to more opportunities to play 3×3 basketball in the future. A heartfelt thank you to the organisers for making this event possible.”
Similarly, Tandin Gyeltshen, who studies at Changangkha Middle Secondary School is equally jubilant after winning the tournament. He said, ” Through this experience, I have learned that anything is possible when a team works together with unity and cooperation. I would like to sincerely thank our teachers and my friends for their support.”
The federation hopes to expand the tournament to other districts in the future.
However, coach Nima Gyaltshen said the lack of budget is a challenge in organising such tournaments.
“With funding support from private sponsors, we have organised the match today. If we get enough budget, we hope to conduct in other districts as well”, he added.
With the new basketball format rolled out, the federation aims to further develop, promote, and regulate the sport across the country.
Kelzang Chhophyel
Edited by Kipchu
