PNG Women’s 3x3 Basketball Team to debut in the Commonwealth Games

The Papua New Guinea Women’s 3x3 Basketball Team will make its first-ever appearance in the Commonwealth Games, scheduled from July 27 to August 2, 2026, in Glasgow, Scotland.

The 3x3 national women’s inaugural participation in the Commonwealth Games highlights a significant milestone for women's sport in PNG and reflects the growth and development of basketball across the country. 

The achievement also signals PNG’s return to the Commonwealth Games team-sport competition for the first time in sixteen years. The last time Team PNG was represented in team sports was in New Delhi in 2010, where the nation competed in both rugby sevens and netball events.

Following rigorous training sessions for nearly three months, the women’s 3x3 players are ready and optimistic about performing to the best of their abilities to represent the country with pride on foreign soil. 

The Basketball Federation of Papua New Guinea (BFPNG) hosted its final national training camp on June 18 to finalize the squad and prepare the women's 3x3 national team for the international event.  

In line with the BFPNG and Papua New Guinea Olympic Committee (PNGOC) selection policies and requirements, the athletes underwent an intensive two-day camp, in which the players and coaching staff fine-tuned team systems, evaluated performances, and ensured all athletes met the standards required for selection.

Head coach Gavin Dela Cruz was in the country to facilitate the training sessions and oversee the final stages of preparations, providing valuable guidance and technical expertise as the athletes continue their push towards Glasgow 2026.

BFPNG clarified that the selections were conducted fairly and transparently, with the final decisions being guided by the federation's policies and the requirements set out by the PNGOC. 

The event will create an opportunity for PNG's women to showcase their talent against some of the world's best athletes in the Commonwealth nations, while continuing to inspire the next generation of young female 3x3 basketball players throughout the country.

The Basketball Federation of Papua New Guinea wished the athletes good luck and looks forward to seeing the team proudly represent the nation at the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, Scotland.