MBABANE – Eswatini is set to witness a historic revival of basketball.
The Eswatini Winter Basketball Tournament 2026 officially kicks off its preparations following a vibrant launch held at Eclipse in Matsapha, where Minister Owen Nxumalo spoke on behalf of the Sports Ministry.
Organised by the female-led YAS Eventful Minds, this ‘Winter Basketball Classic’ represents more than just a competition; it is a strategic act of restoration for a sport that has long occupied the periphery of the national sporting conversation.
With the tournament scheduled for July 10-12, 2026 at the University of Eswatini (UNESWA) Kwaluseni Campus, the excitement is already palpable. YAS Eventful Minds’ Londizwe Mngomezulu confirmed that 30 teams have already registered for the event, including six teams from Eswatini and 24 from neighbouring countries that include Mozambique, South Africa, Zimbabwe, Botswana and Lesotho.
The event is set to be a major economic and sporting highlight, backed by a partnership with the Matsapha Town Council. At the heart of the competition is a significant financial incentive, with a total prize purse of E75 000 up for grabs for the participants.
In the men’s and women’s open categories, the competition will be fierce, with gold medalists set to take home E20 000, while the second-placed side will walk away with E10 000. Furthermore, following a sponsorship secured during the launch, the 40+ Men’s category will feature its own prize structure, with E10 000 for gold and E5 000 for silver.
Beyond the prize money, the tournament serves as a critical platform for youth development and community engagement. By hosting elite athletes from across the Southern Africa and implementing International Basketball Federation (FIBA)-standard officiating, YAS Eventful Minds aims to elevate the standard of play within the kingdom.
“This tournament demonstrates what is possible when basketball is given proper investment and organisation,” said Mngomezulu. The tournament is poised to be a catalyst for long-term growth, including future goals for dedicated basketball infrastructure and the integration of the sport into primary school curricula.
Minister for Education and Training Owen Nxumalo with Eclipse staff and Basketball Association of Eswatini officials at the launch of the Eswatini Winter Basketball Tournament. (Courtesy pic)