The University of Johannesburg’s Soweto Campus is gearing up to host the highly anticipated 5th Afro Varsity 3X3 Basketball Challenge from June 22 to 25, 2023. Fourteen universities from across Africa will send their top student basketball teams to compete for the title of African champions and the opportunity to represent the continent at the FISU 3×3 Basketball World Cup. This thrilling tournament serves as a platform to showcase the immense talent of African university students on the basketball court.

Following the success of the previous edition held at United States International University-Africa in Nairobi, Kenya, in 2021, this year’s event promises to be even more exhilarating. The 3×3 basketball format, featuring four players per team instead of the traditional five, will add an extra layer of intensity and strategy to the games. With only one substitute allowed on the bench, teams will have to make strategic substitutions during the game’s dead ball breaks.

The confirmed universities participating in the challenge are as follows:

1. United States International University-Africa (USIU) – Kenya
2. Mulungushi University – Zambia
3. University of Ibadan – Nigeria
4. Makerere University – Uganda
5. Ndejje University – Uganda
6. American University in Cairo – Egypt
7. University of Botswana – Botswana
8. Kotebe University of Education – Ethiopia
9. University of Mauritius – Mauritius
10. University of Ghana – Ghana
11. University of Cape Coast – Ghana
12. Copperbelt University – Zambia
13. University of Johannesburg (UJ) – South Africa
14. North West University (NWU) Vaal Campus – South Africa

Ms Nompilo Zondi, the Chairperson of the Local Organizing Committee, expressed her dedication to ensuring the tournament’s success and the satisfaction of all participating teams. Recognizing the significance of hosting the championships until 2027, she emphasized the meticulous approach taken by the University of Johannesburg.

The FASU 3×3 Basketball Challenge, held biennially, provides African university students with a prestigious platform to compete at a high level. Besides determining the African champions, the winning team will secure a spot at the FISU 3×3 Basketball World Cup, elevating their basketball journey to an international stage.

Ms Marissa Langeni, CEO of University Sport South Africa (USSA), highlighted the tournament’s importance as a showcase for talented African university students, allowing them to demonstrate their basketball skills. With high stakes on the line, she expressed anticipation for intense and competitive basketball games in Johannesburg.

Elize le Roux, the Manager of UJ Basketball Club, eagerly anticipates hosting the FASU 3×3 Basketball Championship at the university’s Soweto Campus. Welcoming the African teams, she wished all the participating universities the best and hoped that the UJ team, known as the Orange Army, would advance to the final and make their home crowd proud.

The games will be open to all, including students, staff, and the local Johannesburg communities. Spectators will have the opportunity to witness the thrilling matches free of charge, supporting their favorite teams and enjoying the exceptional basketball talent on display.

As the countdown to the 5th Afro Varsity 3X3 Basketball Challenge begins, basketball enthusiasts and supporters of African university sports eagerly await this exciting tournament where passion, skill, and determination will converge on the courts of the University of Johannesburg