In delighting news for Welsh basketball fans and followers, as the 29th GB Masters Tournament returns to Cardiff in 2026, re-igniting the thrills and passion for the sport among players and fans. Scheduled as a two-day event between 12th and 13th June 2026,it promises to be a great experience for masters players hoping to build on the success of previous editions hosted by the vibrant city.
The British Masters event has just got biggerand bettereach year with more than 700 players expected to participate in the 2026 tournament across age groups ranging from Over 35s to Over 60s for both genders, displaying the love and passion of the players towards the sport.
Nicky Shaw, Chairman and Lead Delegate, GB Masters Basketball, expressed her excitement for the impending event:
“We’re expecting around 700 players to take part, across men’s and women’s divisions across age groups of Over-35s, up to +60s, and also hope to introduce a +65 men’s category and a +55 women’s category respectively basis the number of entries”.
Moreover, speaking on the event’s return to Cardiff she added
“It feels like coming home, hosting the event here again helps cement Cardiff’s reputation as a world-class basketball destination while also strengthens ties within the UK basketball community and increases the game’s visibility at all levels.
Masters’ basketball tournaments have a special buzz because everyone’s playing for the love of the game, creating a unique atmosphere with a blend of fierce competition and genuine camaraderie”.
Nicky also acknowledged FIMBA’s mission to promote basketball for life, adding
“they provide a structured pathway for players, conducting international tournaments, regional competitions, that foster friendships, cultural exchanges and physical activity among participants”.
Basketball Wales is delighted to announce that we will be entering both Men’s and Women’s teams into next year’s Cardiff Masters event, building on the success of the Tri Nations Masters competition in Manchester in June 2024.
Players who are interested in representing Wales at the Cardiff Masters next June are encouraged to follow our social media channels closely over the coming weeks, where details of trials will be shared.
Basketball Wales Head of Performance Ryan Chambers said
“Entering Wales National Teams into next year’s event in Cardiff will be the catalyst to kick-start our Performance Masters Programme. Our aim is to keep players involved in basketball for as long as possible, and the chance to represent Wales and proudly wear the red vest will be a huge source of inspiration. We hope this opportunity not only motivates current players to stay engaged but also encourages former players to return to the court and be part of something special.”
Image above of BAsketball Wales Men’s and Women’s Masters teams competing at the Tri Nations tournament in Manchester June 2024
