Historic Victoria Square could become the eye-catching venue for basketball tournaments if Birmingham hosts the 2022 Commonwealth Games.
The 3×3 basketball and wheelchair basketball competitions would be housed under a giant canopy next to Birmingham’s grand 1870s Council House building, in front of up to 3,000 spectators.
It would be the first time the three-a-side version of the sport would be held at a Games.
Birmingham is bidding to host the 2022 Games and faces competition from Liverpool, Kuala Lumpur, Victoria in Canada and possibly an Australian bid.
The city’s bid team has also unveiled details of a parallel Urban Street Festival which would include free running, skateboarding, BMX, street dance and sport climbing contests and events.
It is designed to bridge the gap between traditional sport and the urban and cultural activities and involve a wider range of young people in the event.
Olympic Gold medallist for Team USA, and one of the greatest NBA players in basketball history, Hakeem ‘The Dream’ Olajuwon, now lives in Birmingham and is a huge supporter of the Birmingham 2022 Bid:
“My family moved to Birmingham when my daughter came to study at university here. We have received a fantastic welcome and love the warmth and inclusivity of everyone we have met. I have been amazed at the passion and ability of the young players at the City of Birmingham Basketball Club in Nechells and think the inclusion of 3×3 basketball at the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games would provide a huge inspiration for the next generation of players.
“Basketball promotes courage, teamwork and how to succeed which are great values for youngsters to learn, whatever their background. I’m supporting Birmingham 2022 and hope they bring the Games to this great city.”
