LÉON (Mexico) – During the FIBA U18 AmeriCup 2026 in Irapuato and the FIBA U18 Women’s AmeriCup 2026 in León, Mexico, referees, referee instructors and competition staff stepped off the court to take part in a meaningful FIBA Foundation Basketball for Good initiative.
Working alongside two local schools supporting children, young people and adults with Down syndrome, the officiating team embraced the opportunity to share the values of basketball beyond the game itself.
Throughout the sessions, participants enjoyed a wide variety of basketball-based activities designed to promote inclusion, teamwork and confidence. Referees and staff paired up with the participants in passing and catching drills, dribbling exercises, shooting games, ball-handling activities, coordination challenges and fun team competitions. Every activity encouraged communication, interaction and mutual support, creating an environment where everyone could participate at their own pace while enjoying the game.
More importantly, the experience became a true exchange. Smiles, high-fives, hugs and celebrations filled both venues, reminding everyone that basketball is far more than a sport—it is a universal language capable of bringing people together regardless of age or ability.
The commitment shown by every referee and staff member reflected one of FIBA's core values: using basketball as a tool to create positive social impact within host communities. By dedicating their time and energy to these activities, the officiating teams demonstrated that their role extends well beyond making decisions on the court—they also serve as ambassadors for the game and for the values it represents.
FIBA Referees are proud to support the FIBA Foundation's Basketball for Good mission and look forward to continuing these initiatives at future competitions around the world.
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About the FIBA Foundation
The FIBA Foundationis the social and legacy arm of FIBA that addresses the role of sports and particularly basketball in society, preserving and promoting basketball’s values and its cultural heritage..