MADRID (Spain) – In 1965, an exhibition game was held in Madrid to advocate for the inclusion of women's basketball in the Summer Olympics.
On October 6, 1965, the Palacio de los Deportes in Madrid, Spain, hosted a significant women's basketball exhibition game between the national teams of Czechoslovakia and Brazil. This event was organized to coincide with the 63rd Session of the International Olympic Committee (IOC) and aimed to advocate for the inclusion of women's basketball in the Olympic program.
Approximately 7,000 spectators, including some IOC members, attended the match, which highlighted exceptional skill and sportsmanship from both teams. Czechoslovakia secured a narrow victory over Brazil with a final score of 71-66, after trailing 30-31 at halftime.
Both teams traveled to Madrid at their own expense, demonstrating their commitment to promoting women's basketball on the global stage. Despite their efforts, women's basketball had to wait until the 1976 Montreal Olympics to become a reality. However, this match opened the door for discussions between the IOC and FIBA about reducing the number of teams in the men's tournament to make room for women's basketball in the Olympics.
This historic game remains a testament to the dedication and passion of female athletes striving for recognition and equality in sports. The FIBA collections preserve both the event's commemorative poster and a medal from this landmark match.
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