U23 3x3 Women's Summit: A Game Changer for Female Basketball in Ghana

Young female basketball players from across Ghana gathered at the Kawukudi Basketball Court in Accra for the U23 3x3 Women's Summit 2026, a two-day event designed to empower women through sport while promoting leadership, mental health awareness and personal development. Held from July 18 to 19, the summit was organised through a partnership between Access Your Game (AYG) Training Academy, based in the United States, and Dunk Grassroots Ghana. The summit sought to promote greater female participation in organised basketball while equipping participants with technical skills, leadership qualities, resilience and opportunities for mentorship and networking. Activities included a U23 Women's 3x3 basketball tournament, basketball skills development clinics, mental health and wellbeing sessions, leadership discussions, yoga, team-building exercises and participant recognition.

Why This Summit Matters for Ghana's Basketball Future

Founder and owner of Access Your Game Training Academy, Britnea Moore, described the initiative as a transformative experience that extended beyond basketball. She said the summit created an opportunity to showcase the talent of young female athletes while introducing them to mental health education and practices that encourage mindfulness and overall wellbeing through movement and breathing exercises. According to Moore, her organisation is committed to grassroots player development, emphasising consistency, repetition and discipline as essential ingredients for success both on and off the court. She expressed her commitment to returning to Ghana to continue investing in young female athletes, with the hope that many would earn opportunities to further their basketball careers internationally, particularly in the United States. She also announced that the winning team would receive a pair of basketball shoes.

Bridging the Gender Gap in Basketball

Relations Manager of Dunk Grassroots, Bismark Voegborlo, said the summit was conceived to address the limited attention traditionally given to women's basketball compared to the men's game. He explained that the initiative provides an important platform for young women to showcase their talents while introducing more players to the rapidly growing 3x3 basketball format. He expressed optimism about the future of women's basketball in Ghana, stating that many of the participants have the potential to compete internationally. He added that the simplicity and accessibility of 3x3 basketball make it an ideal pathway for developing talent and expanding opportunities for female players. Voegborlo further revealed plans to organise more 3x3 basketball competitions, increase player participation in international tours, and host Africa's first-ever 3x3 Lite Quest tournament in Accra.

What Makes 3x3 Basketball a Game Changer

Project Coordinator at Dunk Grassroots, Mia George, said the event featured ten teams competing in the fast-paced 3x3 format, where games last ten minutes or end when a team reaches 21 points. She attributed the strong participation to the organisation's continued investment in women's basketball through the Women's Sports Festival, which has helped create a welcoming environment for female athletes to compete and develop their skills. George described 3x3 basketball as an exciting, high-intensity version of the game that demands speed, endurance, and teamwork, adding that participants embraced the challenge with enthusiasm while enjoying the experience.

What's Next for Women's Basketball in Ghana?

With plans for more 3x3 competitions, international tours, and the first-ever 3x3 Lite Quest tournament in Accra, the future of women's basketball in Ghana looks bright. The summit has not only showcased the talent of young female athletes but also created a sustainable pathway for their growth and international exposure. As Moore put it, 'This is just the beginning. We are committed to returning and investing in these young women.'

FAQ: U23 3x3 Women's Summit

What is the U23 3x3 Women's Summit?

It is a two-day event held in Accra, Ghana, that combines a 3x3 basketball tournament with leadership, mental health, and personal development sessions for young female players.

Who organised the summit?

The summit was organised by Access Your Game (AYG) Training Academy, based in the United States, in partnership with Dunk Grassroots Ghana.

What is the goal of the summit?

The goal is to empower young women through basketball, promote mental health awareness, and create opportunities for international basketball careers.

What are the future plans for women's basketball in Ghana?

Plans include more 3x3 competitions, international tours for players, and hosting Africa's first 3x3 Lite Quest tournament in Accra.