What is World Deaf 3×3 Basketball?
An official competition organized by the Deaf International Basketball Federation (DIBF), the World Deaf 3×3 Basketball World Cup is a global tournament for d/Deaf and hard-of-hearing athletes, held every two years (in even years). It features national men’s and women’s teams playing the fast-paced, half‑court version of basketball with 3 players per team plus one substitute .
DIBF was officially founded in 2002 (originally as the IDBA in 1998), with founding membership from 16 nations including New Zealand. DIBF is recognised and associated with FIBA.
History Highlights
Founded under DIBF in 2002/03, building on earlier Deaf sports movements from the 1920s .
3×3 format promoted by FIBA and adopted by DIBF as a separate championship every two years .
World Deaf 3×3 Cups held in:
2022: Ramat Gan, Israel
2024: Washington, D.C., United States of America (NZ teams participated for first time)
2026: Auckland, New Zealand
Here is some information about the venue and Player's accomodation for the 3x3 World Cup. - Scroll down further for accommodation for spectators, supporters.
Venue Information
We’re converting the iconic Manuka Doctor Tennis Arena – renowned for hosting the annual WTA and ATP international tennis tournaments each January – into a world-class basketball arena for this special event.
Note: To enter in this tournament
​​​​​​​you need to contact your national sports federation.
Accommodation Information
Pullman Hotel - Auckland CBD is our host hotel for this event, alongiside their partner Joe's Hostel for cheaper alternative accomodation.
Note: To book your accommodation
​​​​​​​you need to contact your national sports federation.
Supporter Information
We have associated with Nesuto Stadium Hotel in Central Auckland as a host hotel for our spectators and supporters.
This hotel is approx 15-30minute walk from Manuka Doctor Arena, and approx 10minutes from Pullman Hotel. This hotel will be able to cater for all your needs.
Bookings will be open 1st September 2025