STATEMENT ON BEHALF OF KAWHI LEONARD REGARDING THE RESULTS OF THE NBA’S INVESTIGATION
NEW YORK, Sept. 2, 2026 – Kawhi Leonard, through his new agent, Harrison Gaines, issued the following statement regarding the findings of the NBA’s investigation into violations of the league’s salary cap circumvention rules:
“Integrity and respect for this game are fundamental to who I am. I accept full responsibility for lapses in judgment by people within my inner circle and regret the distraction this situation has caused the fans and my family.
I entered into my contract with the Clippers as well as the agreements in question in good faith, fully committed to fulfilling my obligations and with no knowledge of any intent on anyone's part to circumvent the salary cap.
For 15 years, my priority has been giving everything to my family, the game, and those I share the court with. As I return to Toronto, I am focused on what I can control, closing this chapter, and moving forward with a clean slate."
NBA Announces Penalties and Findings Arising From Investigation of LA Clippers and Kawhi Leonard NEW YORK, Sept. 2, 2026 – The NBA announced today that the LA Clippers and Kawhi Leonard have been penalized for violating the salary cap circumvention rules contained in the league’s Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) with the National Basketball Players Association (NBPA). This determination was based upon information developed through an independent investigation conducted by the law firm of Wachtell, Lipton, Rosen & Katz. The investigation found a pattern of misconduct and multiple significant rules violations by the Clippers organization, a prior offender of the salary cap circumvention rules. As described in a summary report prepared by Wachtell Lipton, available here, the Clippers broke the rules by: - Affirmatively initiating off-court income opportunities between Mr. Leonard and four companies doing business with the team: Aspiration Partners, Boingo Wireless, Daktronics, and Lockton Insurance;
- Facilitating endorsement agreements between these companies and Mr. Leonard;
- Inducing the companies to enter into these agreements by offering them business from the team;
- Paying personal expenses on behalf of Mr. Leonard and his representatives; and
- Failing to report improper solicitations for off-court income opportunities made on Mr. Leonard’s behalf through his then-business manager, Dennis Robertson.
Mr. Leonard, through the conduct of Mr. Robertson on his behalf, violated the circumvention rules by pressuring the Clippers to assist him in obtaining off-court income opportunities, successfully obtaining those opportunities, and failing to reimburse payments by the Clippers for personal expenses. Based on this misconduct, the NBA has imposed the following penalties: - The Clippers shall forfeit five first-round draft picks, one in each of the 2029, 2030, 2031, 2032, and 2033 NBA Drafts.
- The Clippers are fined $30 million.
- Clippers owner Steve Ballmer is suspended from all league and team activities for one year for knowingly seeking to help Mr. Leonard obtain off-court income opportunities, for approving a business deal that he knew was a precondition for Aspiration to enter into an endorsement agreement with Mr. Leonard, and for his failure to create conditions under which his organization abided by the NBA’s circumvention rules.
- Clippers President of Business Operations Gillian Zucker is suspended without pay for one year for being primarily and directly culpable for the impermissible endorsement arrangements and for providing false and misleading statements to investigators.
- Clippers President of Basketball Operations Lawrence Frank is suspended without pay for six months for his involvement with the impermissible endorsement arrangements and for approving impermissible expenses incurred by Mr. Leonard and his family.
- The Clippers organization and personnel are subject to a compliance and monitoring program overseen by the league office for a period of five years.
- In connection with his violations, Mr. Leonard is required to pay the league $700,000.
- Mr. Robertson is banned from conducting business or otherwise engaging with NBA teams and their affiliates on behalf of or with respect to any player, employee, or other league or team personnel for a period of five years.
The NBA and the NBPA have entered into an agreement confirming these penalties are final and binding on all parties. Wachtell Lipton continues to receive information relevant to the investigation, and the league will consider further action as appropriate. NBA Commissioner Adam Silver said: “The NBA’s collectively bargained system for determining player compensation is a fundamental component of the basketball competition that the league oversees for the benefit of the teams and players and ultimately the fans. I am deeply disappointed by the flagrant violations of our rules and by the Clippers’ institutional and leadership failures that led to this misconduct. The severity of the penalties reflects the seriousness of the violations.” FIBA and MotoGP to Stage Unique
3x3 Basketball Showcase in Rimini |
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SEPTEMBER 2, 2026
RIMINI (Italy) – FIBA and MotoGP will stage a 3x3 basketball showcase in Rimini on September 9, ahead of the Red Bull Grand Prix of San Marino and the Rimini Riviera. The event brings together MotoGP riders, 3x3 basketball players, content creators and fans for an evening of sport and entertainment.
The FIBA 3x3 MotoGP Showcase, taking place at Piazzale Kennedy, will feature a dunk exhibition followed by a 3x3 basketball game starring MotoGP riders, FIBA 3x3 players, and special guests. Activities will begin at 17:30 CET with premium entertainment and non-stop music.
The exhibition game will then see leading MotoGP riders step onto the half-court alongside players and personalities from the world of 3x3 basketball. Confirmed MotoGP participants include 2026 MotoGP title challenger Marco Bezzecchi, race winner Franco Morbidelli and two-time MotoGP World Champion Francesco Bagnaia.
Franco Morbidelli will lead his team against a squad featuring Marco Bezzecchi and Pecco Bagnaia. Other confirmed players include 3x3 basketball player Giorgio Di Bonaventura and content creator Luca Campolunghi, with more names to be announced closer to the competition.
Alex Sanchez, FIBA 3x3 Managing Director, said: "Bringing together MotoGP riders, 3x3 basketball players and creators for this event creates a unique opportunity to unite two dynamic sports communities and introduce 3x3 basketball to new fans in an exciting setting. We are delighted to collaborate with MotoGP on this showcase in Rimini."
Kelly Brittain, Managing Director, Global Marketing, MotoGP: "We're excited to work with FIBA for this 3x3 event, bringing together basketball and MotoGP. It'll be great entertainment for everyone who can go and enjoy the show just ahead of the San Marino GP, kicking off the weekend's celebrations in style."
Further details will be announced in due course.
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About FIBA 3x3
Exciting, urban and innovative, 3x3 is inspired by several forms of streetball played worldwide and is considered the world’s number one urban team sport. Steered by FIBA, games see two teams of three players face off on a basketball half-court.
With a yearly professional circuit for men and women (World Tour and Women’s Series, respectively) and national-team competitions. 3x3 made its Olympic debut at the Tokyo 2020 Games.
For further information about 3x3, visit fiba3x3.basketball, FIBA 3x3 accounts on Douyin, Facebook, Instagram, Sina Weibo, Tencent, TikTok, Twitch, Twitter, Youku and YouTube or contact 3x3@fiba.basketball. FIBA Executive Committee sets sights on FIBA Women's Basketball World Cup 2026 |
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SEPTEMBER 1, 2026 MIES (Switzerland) - FIBA's Executive Committee has convened just ahead of the FIBA Women's Basketball World Cup 2026, which is set to tip off on September 4 in Berlin. The meeting opened with a moment of silence in memory of Honorary President Horacio Muratore, who sadly passed away at the end of July, honoring his contribution to the sport and the lasting legacy he leaves on FIBA and the global basketball community. The following topics were discussed: FIBA Women's Basketball World Cup 2026The FIBA Executive Committee approved the report on the highly anticipated FIBA Women's Basketball World Cup 2026, which will see 16 teams compete in Berlin over 10 days. Preparations continue to gather momentum, with a series of activities already underway, including the Trophy Tour across Germany and the establishment of dedicated Fan Zones throughout the tournament. Emphasis has been put on the Players’ experience, with single rooms, a dedicated weightlifting area and a private Lounge offering several services. The Executive Committee also received an update on ticket sales, confirming the presence of more than 200,000 spectators, with the final weekend being sold out. FIBA Women's Olympic Pre-Qualifying Tournament 2026The FIBA Women's Olympic Pre-Qualifying Tournament 2026 recently took place in Mexico, providing eight national teams with valuable competitive opportunities during the Women's World Cup year. The Executive Committee received a comprehensive report on the tournament, which concluded with Canada securing the sole available berth in the FIBA Women's Olympic Qualifying Tournaments 2028. FIBA Basketball World Cup 2027The Executive Committee received an update on preparations for the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2027. Key milestones in the lead-up to FIBA's biggest event were highlighted, including the successful celebration of the one-year-to-go mark and the launch of ticket sales, giving fans the opportunity to secure their seats and begin planning their travel. The update also noted the recent FIBA Basketball World Cup 2027 Qualifiers Second Round game between Qatar and China, which was played at Al Janoub Arena following its addition to the tournament's venue lineup. The stadium is set to make history as the first football venue ever to host FIBA Basketball World Cup games, reflecting the scale and ambition of FIBA's flagship men's event. The Executive Committee received a report on the successful completion of Windows 3 and 4 of the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2027 Qualifiers, which took place across all regions and continued to generate strong engagement from fans worldwide. The Executive Committee also confirmed that the Group E tournament of Window 5 in the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2027 Asian Qualifiers will be hosted in Malaysia and of Window 6 in the Philippines. 3x3The Executive Committee received a report on FIBA 3x3 national team competitions, including the successful FIBA 3x3 World Cup 2026 in Warsaw, Poland. The landmark 10th edition of the FIBA 3x3 World Cup delivered record crowds, global visibility and unforgettable moments, with Warsaw welcoming more than 100,000 visitors to the 3x3 Village throughout the week, creating a vibrant festival atmosphere in the heart of the city. FIBA Intercontinental Cup 2026An update was given on preparations for the upcoming FIBA Intercontinental Cup 2026, which will be held in Beijing, China, from September 22-27 as the tournament begins a new three-year chapter in the Chinese capital. The six-team lineup was confirmed in August, featuring Rytas Vilnius (Lithuania), RSSB Tigers (Rwanda), Shanghai Sharks (China), Boca Juniors (Argentina), Beijing Royal Fighters (China) and NBA G League United (USA), and Argentinian basketball legend Luis Scola will serve as an ambassador for the event. Other MattersFollowing the International Olympic Committee (IOC) Executive Board’s decisions to lift its recommended restrictions on Belarusian athletes and teams on May 7, and provisionally lift the suspension of the Russian Olympic Committee on July 7, the Executive Committee confirmed FIBA's alignment with the IOC decisions and decided that the implementation will follow the principles below: With respect to the participation of individuals, to lift the restrictions on all players, coaches, referees, commissioners and other officials in Basketball and 3x3 Basketball. Russian and Belarusian individual players can participate and officials can be nominated in all FIBA competitions with immediate effect. With respect to participation of teams, to work closely with the IOC, ASOIF and other Olympic team sports federations to address the logistical and player safety issues surrounding the reintegration of Russian and Belarusian national teams on the Road to LA28 as well as in the international competitions for national teams and clubs in all ages and in both Olympic disciplines of FIBA. Concrete decisions that can be implemented in this respect, including an adequate anti-doping program, will be taken at the FIBA Central Board meeting in December 2026.
Driving the game forward: FIBA welcomes Jetour as its Official Car Supplier |
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AUGUST 31, 2026 DOHA (Qatar) - FIBA is pleased to announce a new global partnership with Jetour, which will serve as its Official Car Supplier. This collaboration marks an important milestone, supporting ongoing preparations and strengthening mobility solutions for FIBA's major international competitions.
The agreement forms part of the continued preparations for the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2027 in Qatar and will support FIBA’s activities leading up to the tournament. The main event will be hosted in Doha next year, tipping off on August 27, and the collaboration will continue through the Final Phase of the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2027 in Qatar.
Jetour will provide a dedicated fleet of vehicles T1 and T2, supporting the operations in Doha, contributing directly to the successful delivery of next year’s pinnacle event in the international basketball calendar.
Rapidly expanding across global markets, Jetour has quickly earned a reputation for bold design, strong performance and a product lineup tailored to the needs of diverse markets. Additionally, Qatar represents an important market for Jetour, where the brand has already developed a strong presence and a considerable market share, with vehicles suited to both everyday urban mobility and off-road exploration.
FIBA Secretary General Andreas Zagklis stated: "We are delighted to welcome Jetour as a new FIBA Global Supplier. As preparations continue for the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2027 in Qatar, their support will help ensure the successful delivery of our flagship competition and reinforce the important role mobility plays in hosting world-class events."
Ke Chuandeng, President of Jetour, added: "Basketball is about speed, precision, and teamwork - values that resonate deeply with Jetour as a brand. Partnering with FIBA allows us to align with a sport that embodies energy and forward momentum. We are proud to support the global basketball community and to be part of its continued evolution." Baskets Bonn win
FIBA 3x3 World Tour Debrecen 2026 |
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AUGUST 30, 2026
DEBRECEN (Hungary) - Baskets Bonn make it 3 stop wins in the season, defeating Amsterdam (NED) 21 - 17 in the final to win the FIBA 3x3 World Tour Debrecen 2026 on August 30.
Coming all the way from the Qualifying Draw, the German side dominated their way to the final. They defeated Miami 21 - 17 in the semis to book yet another matchup against Amsterdam, a repeat of their finals win in Amsterdam.
Despite finding themselves in foul trouble, Baskets Bonn never relented their control, maintaining their physical advantage against another offensive force in the Worthy de Jong-led Amsterdam side. While the lead belonged to Baskets Bonn late on, de Jong made big shots to mount a comeback, pulling it back to only a 2-point deficit at 17 - 19.
With all the pressure in the world, it was Fabian Giessmann who once again answered the call for his side, drilling an incredible two-piece to earn Baskets Bonn a huge win in Debrecen.
Giessmann once again was the star of the show for his team. The 21-year-old was unstoppable in Debrecen, scoring 45 points across the 5 games since pool phase, including a whopping 12 in the final against Amsterdam. He took home MVP honors for his heroic efforts to lead Baskets Bonn to victory.
Also in Debrecen, Miami’s (USA) Jackson Trapp won the Tippmix Shoot-Out contest while Piotr Zawiślak won the Tippmix dunk contest.
STANDINGS - Baskets Bonn (GER)
- Amsterdam RABOBANK (NED)
- Miami (USA)
- Ub (SRB)
- Liberec DEKSTONE (CZE)
- Cibona Ph.Classic (CRO)
- Debrecen (HUN)
- Liman (SRB)
- Raudondvaris Hoptrans (LTU)
- Ulaanbaatar MMC Energy (MGL)
- Élancourt (FRA)
- Toulouse (FRA)
- Barcelona (ESP)
- Shanghai (CHN)
- Kaunas VDU (LTU)
- Hangzhou Jingwei (CHN)
What's Next?
The FIBA 3x3 World Tour makes its way to Deqing next on September 26 - 27, where many of the world's best 3x3 basketball teams will continue their race for valuable ranking points and another World Tour title.
The FIBA 3x3 World Tour Debrecen 2026 became the first FIBA 3x3 event available through L1VE, giving fans a new way to experience the action from almost anywhere immersively. |
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INTERSPORT and FIBA announce landmark Global Partnership through 2031 |
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AUGUST 28, 2026 MIES (Switzerland) - FIBA has announced international sporting goods retailer INTERSPORT as its newest Global Partner, with both organizations agreeing to a landmark partnership running through to 2031. The agreement reflects a shared ambition to make basketball more accessible and engaging for fans around the world through enhanced retail experiences, exclusive fan activations and closer connections to FIBA's events. The partnership combines FIBA's international basketball platform with INTERSPORT’s international retail network and expertise in event retail operations and licensed merchandise. Under the terms of the partnership, INTERSPORT will support FIBA's flagship events, including the next two editions of the FIBA Basketball World Cups for both men and women, as well as the upcoming FIBA Continental Cups and the FIBA U17 Basketball World Cups for men and women. INTERSPORT will also serve as FIBA's Official Event Retail Operations Partner for selected national team competitions throughout the term of the agreement. These events will include the FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup 2026 in Berlin and the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2031 in France. |
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"This is great news for fans of flagship national team competitions who can look forward to exciting retail and event activations worldwide," said Frank Leenders, FIBA's Director General of Media and Marketing Services "Ultimately, this partnership will help expand the availability and visibility of the official FIBA licensing program, bringing fans even closer to the game and its biggest events," he added. “Basketball is one of the world's most accessible sports, with a unique ability to bring people together across communities, cultures and generations. We are proud to support FIBA's national team competitions through this new global partnership," said Tom Foley, CEO of IIC - INTERSPORT International Corporation GmbH. "With INTERSPORT’s strong retail network and deep connection to local sporting communities, we see a meaningful opportunity to bring fans closer to the game through engaging retail experiences, exclusive activations and products that celebrate their passion for basketball." As part of the agreement, FIBA and INTERSPORT will also collaborate on a range of lifestyle and non-competition related products, which will be available exclusively through the INTERSPORT retail network from 2027. |
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FIBA Basketball World Cup 2027 tickets go on sale as One Year to Go milestone arrives |
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AUGUST 27, 2026 DOHA (Qatar) - To celebrate exactly one year to go until the start of the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2027, tickets for the showpiece event are now available. Basketball fans can secure their tickets and take advantage of a special 20 percent early-bird discount on special ticket passes, available until August 29. |
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 | | Click here to secure your tickets to the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2027. |
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Taking place next year from August 27 and September 12, the biggest tournament in the basketball calendar promises to provide a unique opportunity to access 32 teams all stepping out in the same city as they battle it out for the prestigious Naismith Trophy. One of the best-connected destinations in the world, Doha has direct flights from most of the potential participating countries, as well as a highly integrated public transportation network that connects all World Cup venues, placing them within 30 minutes' reach of each other. Fans can plan and arrange their travel in advance, enjoying the chance to combine first-class FIBA Basketball World Cup 2027 action alongside opportunities to sample Qatar's culture, hospitality, attractions and wider visitor experiences.
Poised to engage millions of fans around the world, the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2027 will make history as the first edition of the tournament to be held in the Middle East. It will also set a new benchmark for sustainability, with all competition venues already in place and a strong commitment to delivering a carbon-neutral event. With the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2027 Qualifiers currently underway, 60 teams are competing for a spot at the flagship event. To mark today's One Year to Go milestone, host nation Qatar will be in action this evening in Doha, taking on China in the Second Round of the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2027 Asian Qualifiers. The game will be played at Al Janoub Stadium, one of the venues set to host games during the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2027. FIBA Secretary General Andreas Zagklis stated: "By reaching the milestone of one year to go until the tournament, the anticipation in the world basketball community immediately intensifies. By also launching tickets on this landmark date, we can see that the excitement is already high during an exciting lead up of World Cup Qualifiers. "Having all 32 participating teams playing in Doha presents fans with the unique chance to tailor their World Cup experience and attend more games in person". Dr. Ahmad Abdulla Al-Buenain, Director General of the FIBA Basketball World Cup Qatar 2027 Local Organizing Committee, stated: "We are very excited to be marking this one year to go until the start of the tournament with the launch of tickets, since we can't wait to welcome fans from every corner of the world. "A lot of work has already been undertaken to make sure fans who arrive in Doha will have access to first class facilities at venues and with transport connections. We look forward to delivering a truly special FIBA Basketball World Cup 2027, and also giving visitors a chance to experience the very best of Qatar as a destination." Further information on tickets will be made available soon, with fans encouraged to register their interest here to stay informed on the Road to Doha. Click here to secure your tickets to the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2027. FIBA and NBA celebrate 25 years of Basketball Without Borders |
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AUGUST 26, 2026 MIES (Switzerland) - The success of the global basketball development collaboration between FIBA and the NBA has been recognized and highlighted with the publication of a report celebrating 25 years of the flagship Basketball Without Borders (BWB) program. Created in 2001 to identify and elevate the world's most promising young players, while also promoting values, community engagement and securing positive pathways in sport; what began as a single camp in Europe has grown into a worldwide platform connecting elite youth athletes with the highest levels of the game. More than 600 current and former NBA, WNBA and FIBA players and coaches have supported the young athletes taking part. These players and coaches have been at the heart of BWB’s identity throughout its impressive evolution over time, with many inspired campers following in their footsteps and going on to play at the elite level. BWB has also strengthened National Federations by assisting with earlier talent identification, providing benchmarking against regional and global peers, providing elite coaching exposure, faster readiness for U16 to U19 age group competitions and smoothing a pathway towards Senior National Teams selection. The program has also had a positive impact on the NBA, establishing itself as a recognized global talent pathway. The impact on the WNBA is also likely to grow significantly, with full gender parity for BWB set in place since 2023. More than talent camps, BWB has also delivered a lasting social impact by advancing life skills education and community engagement. It has also built technical standards across host countries, including training for coaches and referees. Meanwhile. the truly global nature and reach of BWB at this 25th landmark is also striking - as are so many of the outcomes that have been highlighted within the report. Key OutcomesBWB has delivered 84 camps in 36 countries, for 4,939 participants from 152 different National Federations A total of 2,651 campers have represented Youth National Teams on the global stage A total of 1,490 have went on to play with Senior National Teams A total of 112 participants have played in the NBA, with another 13 making the WNBA A total of 10,000 coaches and 500 referees trained More than 150 life skill sessions and more than 100 socially responsible activations.
(Note: numbers are calculated to the end of 2025) |
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FIBA Secretary General Andreas Zagklis stated: "Celebrating 25 years of Basketball Without Borders is a very special milestone for our sport. We are proud of our long-standing collaboration with the NBA and of the global platform we have built together to connect communities, develop talent and create opportunities for players and coaches around the world. "BWB reflects FIBA's commitment to youth development and international collaboration. It has also helped strengthen National Federations and support the growth of the game at every level. We look forward to building on this impact in the years ahead." Adam Silver, NBA Commissioner, added: "The game of basketball has never been more global, and Basketball Without Borders has played a vital role in its growth. "For 25 years, BWB has been a mainstay in identifying and developing the next generation of NBA and WNBA players from around the world, including some of our very best talent. And together with FIBA, we are committed to ensuring that this program continues to flourish as an elite training ground and platform for aspiring young players." The full 25th Anniversary Report on the success of Basketball Without Borders can be accessed here. |
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Ticketmaster becomes Official Ticketing Partner of the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2027 |
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AUGUST 26, 2026 DOHA (Qatar) - FIBA and Ticketmaster have announced a new partnership, with Ticketmaster becoming the official ticketing partner of the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2027. Through the partnership, Ticketmaster will deliver a world-class, fully digital ticketing experience for FIBA's flagship men's event. Leveraging its global reach and marketing capabilities, Ticketmaster will help drive awareness and ticket sales worldwide. Powered by Ticketmaster's SafeTix technology, tickets will be securely embedded within the tournament's official mobile app, helping reduce fraud while enabling fast, convenient entry. Ticketmaster will also power venue access across all four competition venues using TM Entry, Ticketmaster's timed-entry ticketing solutions, and provide experienced on-site support throughout the tournament. Frank Leenders, Director General of FIBA Media and Marketing Services, said: "As we prepare to welcome fans from around the world to the first FIBA Basketball World Cup in the Middle East, it was important to partner with a ticketing provider that could deliver at a global scale. Ticketmaster brings proven technology, operational expertise and extensive experience supporting the world's biggest sporting events, giving us confidence we can provide fans with a seamless and secure journey from ticket purchase through to tip-off." Dr. Ahmad Abdulla Al-Buenain, Director General of the Local Organizing Committee for the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2027, said: "The partnership with Ticketmaster represents an important step in the Local Organizing Committee’s preparations to host the tournament. The FIBA Basketball World Cup Qatar 2027 marks another milestone in Qatar’s journey of hosting and delivering major international sporting events, and provides an opportunity to stage an outstanding edition that reflects the country’s global standing and organizational expertise." |
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He added: "The Local Organizing Committee places the fan experience at the heart of its preparations for the tournament, which is why we have partnered with one of the world’s leading companies in ticketing platforms and event access management. This partnership aims to provide fans with a seamless and secure experience, from purchasing their tickets through to arriving at and entering the venues, reflecting the Local Organizing Committee’s commitment to implementing global best practices and delivering a successful tournament at every level." Dimitrios Petropoulos, Senior Director of Business Development, Ticketmaster Sport said: "The FIBA Basketball World Cup is a truly global event, and fans deserve a ticketing experience that matches its scale. We're proud to partner with FIBA to help connect basketball fans from around the world with this historic tournament, making it simple, secure and seamless to experience the action live." The FIBA Basketball World Cup 2027 will bring together the top 32 national teams to compete across 92 games over 17 days, tipping off on August 27 in Doha. The tournament marks a historic milestone as the first FIBA Basketball World Cup to be hosted in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region and the largest edition ever staged in a single city, with all games taking place across four venues in Doha. Click here for more information on the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2027. Tickets will go on sale on August 27, to stay informed about the process register your interest here. FIBA and L1VE agree to exclusive
3x3 basketball immersive live rights deal |
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AUGUST 25, 2026
MIES (Switzerland) - FIBA has agreed an exclusive immersive live rights deal for 3x3 basketball with L1VE, covering the FIBA 3x3 World Tour, Women's Series and World Cup, which will bring fans from around the world together and closer to the action in real time.
Immersive live rights are a new class of media rights, and allow FIBA’s 3x3 basketball events to open an additional platform that complements existing broadcast and streaming activities. It creates a new engagement opportunity for fans who cannot be inside the venue, giving them a new way to experience the live event.
Founded in 2022 and headquartered in New York, with its research & development in Germany, L1VE is the company behind social presence and a pioneer of this new rights category. It also owns a proprietary glass-to-glass technology stack and a direct-to-fan platform.
L1VE runs on every major immersive headset and scales like software: one production reaches every fan at once. Its proprietary technology captures a full venue of live experience in stereoscopic 360° 3D, a real-time pipeline fuses it into a single live scene, and a custom delivery layer keeps every fan worldwide present at the exact same moment.
Fans can invite friends to watch alongside them, wherever they are in the world. Tickets are available for a single day of competition or as a tournament pass covering the full event, in the same way a fan would buy a ticket to attend in person.
The platform has already been used for major live sport and music events internationally, and officially launches with the Detroit Lions on August 22.
L1VE will be in action for the first time at the upcoming FIBA 3x3 World Tour 2026 event in Debrecen, Hungary on August 29 and 30. Fans can access the experience by downloading the L1VE app on a compatible virtual reality headset at l1ve.com.
Over the course of the three-year agreement, the platform will be rolled out across FIBA's flagship 3x3 basketball events, including the FIBA 3x3 World Tour, the FIBA 3x3 Women's Series and the FIBA 3x3 World Cup, bringing fans closer to the action at the discipline's biggest events worldwide.
Alex Sanchez, FIBA’s 3x3 Basketball Managing Director, stated: "3x3 basketball was built to bring the game closer to the fans. Working with L1VE over the next three seasons, we are exploring new ways for audiences around the world to experience the intensity and energetic setting of our events"
David Morgenbesser, Chief Commercial Officer, L1VE commented: "3x3 basketball is one of the most thrilling urban sports in the world. One court, non-stop, right in your face. That makes it a natural fit for L1VE. Over the next three years, we want to give fans a new way to be there, courtside, inside the atmosphere and sharing the real game with the people they want beside them, wherever they are in the world."
The L1VE experience is designed to be shared. Fans watch the game live from a courtside perspective, seeing and hearing the action as it unfolds, and can react to every dunk and buzzer-beater alongside the friends they have invited, regardless of where in the world those friends are located. |
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About FIBA 3x3
Exciting, urban and innovative, 3x3 is inspired by several forms of streetball played worldwide and is considered the world’s number one urban team sport. Steered by FIBA, games see two teams of three players face off on a basketball half-court.
With a yearly professional circuit for men and women (World Tour and Women’s Series, respectively) and national-team competitions. 3x3 made its Olympic debut at the Tokyo 2020 Games.
For further information about 3x3, visit fiba3x3.basketball, FIBA 3x3 accounts on Douyin, Facebook, Instagram, Sina Weibo, Tencent, TikTok, Twitch, Twitter, Youku and YouTube or contact 3x3@fiba.basketball.
About L1VE
L1VE is the company behind Social Presence, a new ticketed experience that allows fans to enjoy immersive live sports and music events together, from anywhere. Founded in 2022, L1VE owns a proprietary glass-to-glass technology stack and a direct-to-fan platform, and is the creator of immersive live rights, a new licensable class of media rights alongside broadcast and streaming. L1VE is headquartered in New York, with R&D in Germany.
Official Hub: You can view company announcements and details via the L1VE Official Website.
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