Paraguay celebrated an important sports success with the unified Women’s 3×3 Basketball Team becoming Division 3 Champions at the first Special Olympics Unified 3×3 World Cup. The event took place in Puerto Rico and promoted inclusion through sport.
In unified teams, athletes with and without intellectual disabilities perform together. The Paraguayan Team victory resonated across the country, reflecting courage, resilience, and the kind of teamwork that inspires.
What is 3×3 basketball and Division 3?
3×3 basketball is another version of traditional basketball. Two teams of three players compete during each match. One substitute is allowed for player changes. Games use a single hoop on a 15×11 metre court. The ball is smaller than usual, as it is size 6. Special Olympics divisions group teams by performance levels; Division 3 ensures balanced matches between teams with similar abilities.
The athletes responsible for the Paraguyan triumph were Ivanna Rocío Ríos, María Merlo, and Luz Insaurralde. Their teammates Antonella Giménez and María Dragotto also played their essential roles. Coaches Sofía Esteche and Jazmín Mercado guided the group with strong leadership. The Paraguayan women performed strongly from the beginning, with teamwork and defensive skills standing out. They secured the title with determination and consistent play.
Paraguay’s Men’s unified team also enjoyed success during the Unified 3×3 World Cup. The male team finished in third place among some of the best unified teams worldwide.
Future for Paraguayan sports
Sports coordinator Luis Cáceres Brun highlighted the teamwork behind this achievement. “These teams have been training for several months. This is the result of the joint work between Paraguay’s Olympic Committee, the National Sports Secretariat, the Paraguayan Basketball Confederation, and the clubs that put their spaces and athletes at the service of the country.” This joint effort strengthened the teams and supported their historic victory.
A global celebration of unity and sport
The tournament was held in the T-Mobile District of San Juan, Puerto Rico. The venue previously hosted the FIBA 3×3 AmeriCup in 2023 and 2024. The event gathered 200 athletes and unified partners from 40 countries. More than 100 coaches and officials supported the competition. A total of 250 volunteers and 40 accredited media outlets also attended. This global participation created a vibrant atmosphere. This edition marked a historic moment in the 57-year history of Special Olympics.
Organisers praised the Paraguayan players for their values and discipline. Paraguayan teams represented the country with pride and strong commitment. Their performance showed how sport can unite people and promote respect.
Read about more international Paraguayan success: Paraguay Beat Argentina To Lift Short-Stature Copa América After Flawless Penalties.
