New Zealand to Host FIBA U15 Oceania Cups for the First Time Since 2015

This event presents an exciting opportunity for basketball enthusiasts in Aotearoa, as emerging players from across Oceania compete for the title of 2026 FIBA U15 Oceania Cup champions and a spot in the upcoming FIBA U16 Asia Cup and FIBA U16 Women's Asia Cup.

Amanda Jenkins, FIBA Executive Director - Oceania, expressed her excitement, noting the significance of reviving a youth FIBA event in New Zealand. She highlighted that the return of these tournaments strengthens the region’s youth basketball connections and supports the development of young athletes on an international stage.

The last FIBA tournament hosted in New Zealand was the FIBA U16 Oceania Cup in 2015, which took place in Wellington with teams from Australia, Tahiti, and New Caledonia. The upcoming event will mark the first FIBA tournament in the country this decade.

Belinda Edwards, Chief Executive of Basketball New Zealand, emphasized the importance of this opportunity for local basketball, stating her excitement for welcoming international teams to Tāmaki Makaurau.

Cheyne Stevens, Head of Major Events at Tātaki Auckland Unlimited, expressed pride in supporting the tournaments, noting the event's potential to showcase Auckland while inspiring future generations of athletes and fans.

Throughout the week, teams will have a chance to qualify for the 2027 FIBA U16 Asia Cup and FIBA U16 Women’s Asia Cup. Entry to the FIBA U15 Oceania Cup and FIBA U15 Women’s Oceania Cup will be free, inviting fans and families to support the young talents. The top two teams from each competition will advance directly to the continental stage, while the third and fourth place teams in the Women’s event will qualify for Division B of the FIBA U16 Women’s Asia Cup.