This morning there is a lively atmosphere of focus and anticipation as the players gather on the pitch. Some quietly stretch and center themselves before the action begins. Others exchange laughs with competitors from other teams, showing the camaraderie that has already formed. For many it is the first time at world level and the result of months of training.
A powerful opening to a historic weekend
The one from last night Opening ceremony unfolded with rhythm, culture and powerful moments of unity. The evening opened with an energetic performance by the Guaynabo Battelers and their band, an all-female music ensemble that set the tone with infectious energy.
Delegations from 27 countries marched proudly in the Parade of Athletes, filling the arena with color and determination. The ceremony continued with inclusive and cultural performances, including Danza 21 – a dance troupe for people with Down syndrome from the Fundación Puertorriqueña Síndrome Down – alongside Gíbaro de Puerto Rico, a renowned cultural organization dedicated to preserving Puerto Rican folklore through music and dance. Both groups brought the crowd to their feet, celebrating the island’s culture and the spirit of inclusivity that was at the heart of the competition.
A moving moment followed as a symbolic ball of light was passed between players from each country. The room was silent as it traveled from hand to hand, representing a light that could not be extinguished: the light of inclusion. Finally quitting, like Puerto Rican basketball legend Piculín Ortiz and Special Olympic Games Puerto Rico rhythmic gymnast Natalia Rubio co-lit the Flame of Hope.
The party got going again when Puerto Rican singing sensation Luis Vázquez closed the ceremony with his hit “Birim Bim Bim.” The court turned into a huge dance party of vibrant colors, with teams coming together as screens on Distrito T-Mobile’s Popular Plaza showed Puerto Rico’s lush landscapes and vibrant cities.
Meaningful engagement is at the heart of the game
Unified 3×3 basketball thrives on meaningful engagement. Each team consists of three athletes and two Unified partners, players without intellectual disabilities, who contribute equally. On a field, two athletes and one Unified partner will always work together to put their team on the board. Coaches prepared for the cup and worked with their team to utilize and improve each player’s strengths to find a team rhythm and harmony.
With 19 men’s and 17 women’s teams competing, this World Cup marks an important milestone built through years of collaboration between Special Olympics Puerto Rico and the FIBA Foundation. Since 2019, Special Olympics and the FIBA Foundation have been partners using basketball as a powerful tool for social development and to promote the inclusion of people with intellectual disabilities.
Rooted in shared values of equality, empowerment and access to sport, the partnership has focused on expanding opportunities for Unified 3×3 Basketball through FIBA and Special Olympics events such as the FIBA Open and the United Basketball World Cup 3×3.
Photo by Sergio Vila
The stories behind the scores follow
Throughout the tournament, Special Olympics will follow the journeys of Special Olympic Games Africa, Asia-Pacific Special Olympics, Special Olympic Games East Asia, Special Olympic Games Latin America, Special Olympics Middle East/North Africa, Special Olympic Games North America recording training, challenges and the action behind each game.
Photo by EDGARDO MEDINA MILLAN
Celebration outside the court
Experience a busy weekend with the following events:
- December 5: FIBA Foundation Mini Basketball Clinic
- December 6: Demonstration of training program for motor activities
- December 7: Celebrity & Sponsor Unified Sports Experience Match
- December 5 – 7: sports clinics and health fairs
At the first whistle, San Juan’s courts ignite with fierce competition. Follow along…
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