St. Kitts and Nevis Basketball Association President Attends Historic FIBA Mid-Term Congress in Bahrain

The St. Kitts and Nevis Amateur Basketball Association (SKNABA) marked a significant step in its integration with the global basketball community by participating in the historic FIBA Mid-Term Congress held in May 2025 at the Exhibition World Bahrain. This record-breaking congress, hosting over 350 guests and an unprecedented 167 National Federations, underscored the burgeoning global influence of basketball and provided a platform for shaping the future of the sport. Representing SKNABA, President Glenn Jeffers’ presence signified the nation’s commitment to basketball development and positioned it within a powerful international network dedicated to advancing the game. The event’s significance was amplified by the attendance of key figures like FIBA President Sheikh Saud Ali Al Thani, FIBA Secretary General Andreas Zagklis, and a virtual address by IOC President Thomas Bach, emphasizing the collaborative and high-profile nature of the gathering.

The Congress served as a strategic platform for FIBA to articulate its vision for basketball’s continued growth, with a particular focus on the upcoming 2027 FIBA World Cup in Qatar and the impact of basketball at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games. Secretary General Zagklis unveiled FIBA’s strategic roadmap for the current cycle, highlighting key initiatives aimed at modernizing and expanding the reach of basketball globally. These initiatives included the launch of the FIBA Academy, a commitment to ongoing digital transformation, expansion of the eFIBA platform, and the introduction of cutting-edge AI-powered media and asset tools. These advancements reflect FIBA’s dedication to innovation and leveraging technology to enhance various aspects of the sport, from training and development to media engagement and fan experience. The presence of delegates like President Jeffers provided a direct conduit for these strategic developments to reach national federations, fostering a unified approach to global basketball advancement.

Key thematic areas central to basketball development were also addressed during the Congress, including sessions focused on Women in Basketball, the dynamic 3×3 basketball format, the FIBA Plus Program, and Olympic Solidarity. These discussions facilitated the sharing of best practices and provided a forum for exploring innovative strategies to enhance these critical areas of the sport. The emphasis on Women in Basketball underscores the commitment to promoting gender equality and inclusivity within the sport, while the focus on 3×3 basketball acknowledges its growing popularity and potential for further development. The FIBA Plus Program and Olympic Solidarity initiatives further underline the commitment to supporting national federations and providing them with the resources necessary to foster basketball growth at the grassroots level.

Adding to the prestige of the event, the Congress showcased a stunning display of 14 FIBA competition trophies, symbolizing the global reach and competitive spirit of the sport. This impressive collection served as a visual reminder of the various international tournaments and championships that contribute to the vibrancy of basketball worldwide. Beyond the ceremonial aspects, the Congress also attended to important administrative matters, including approving amendments to the FIBA General Statutes and receiving reports from the FIBA Treasurer, the FIBA Foundation, and the International Wheelchair Basketball Federation. These proceedings demonstrated the comprehensive nature of the Congress, encompassing both strategic discussions about the future of the sport as well as the necessary governance and financial oversight.

The culminating event of the Congress was the FIBA Hall of Fame Class of 2025 Induction Ceremony, held at the Bahrain National Theatre. This prestigious ceremony recognized basketball legends such as Pau Gasol, Dawn Staley, and Mike Krzyzewski, celebrating their exceptional contributions to the sport. The induction of these iconic figures served as an inspiration for aspiring athletes and highlighted the enduring legacy of basketball excellence. The close proximity of this ceremony to the Congress further enhanced the overall experience for attendees, providing an opportunity to celebrate the history of the sport while simultaneously charting its future course.

For St. Kitts and Nevis, President Jeffers’ participation in this landmark FIBA Mid-Term Congress signifies a pivotal moment for the nation’s basketball program. It provides a platform to strengthen international ties, gain access to valuable resources and strategic support from FIBA, and ultimately, expand opportunities for local athletes, coaches, and administrators. President Jeffers’ attendance underscores SKNABA’s proactive approach to aligning with global best practices and incorporating innovative ideas to foster basketball growth domestically. The Congress provided an invaluable learning experience, enabling SKNABA to draw upon the collective knowledge and experience of the global basketball community. With renewed focus and access to enhanced resources, St. Kitts and Nevis basketball is poised for a period of transformation and advancement, aligning itself with the global momentum driving the future of the sport. The Congress facilitated crucial networking opportunities, enabling SKNABA to establish connections and collaborations with other national federations, opening doors for future partnerships and exchanges. By actively engaging with the international basketball community, SKNABA is demonstrating its commitment to elevating the sport within St. Kitts and Nevis and providing its athletes with the best possible opportunities to develop and excel.