Yerevan set to host record-breaking basketball event: Over 400 participants and Armenia's growing ambitions

From July 11 to 20, Armenia’s capital will become the stage for the largest team sports tournament in the country’s history — the FIBA U20 European Championship (Division B) will take place in Yerevan. 21 national teams and around 400 athletes are expected to take part, while the total number of foreign guests — including fans and volunteers — may exceed 1,000.

At a press conference dedicated to the preparation of the tournament, Armenia’s Minister of Education, Science, Culture and Sports, Zhanna Andreasyan, noted that such events align with the national strategy for sports development. “This is already the third major international tournament in Armenia this year — following hockey and karate championships. Volleyball is next,” she emphasized.

The minister also highlighted the success of Armenia’s first-ever school basketball league, which involved over 8,700 children in the initial stage. According to her, this proves the growing interest in team sports and the need for continued support.

Government support — the key to success

The tournament preparations were fully funded by the Armenian government. Sports facilities were upgraded, benefiting not only the tournament but also the long-term development of Armenia’s basketball infrastructure.

“Without government involvement, organizing a tournament of this scale would be impossible. This is a huge organizational effort and an important step toward securing Armenia’s place on Europe’s basketball map,” said Arthur Nazaryan, Secretary General of the Basketball Federation of Armenia.

The Armenian team has been training for over a month, playing friendlies against strong teams from Russia and Switzerland. On July 9, they will face Georgia in a test match. In the group stage, Pete Dominguez's squad will begin their campaign against Latvia — one of the tournament favorites along with Turkey, Montenegro, and Croatia.

Team Armenia’s goal: a Top-10 finish

According to Arthur Nazaryan, the team’s minimum goal is to place in the top 10. This would mark a significant step forward given the growing popularity of basketball in the country.

Games will be held at two venues — the Karen Demirchyan Sports and Concert Complex and the Mika Sports Complex. All matches will be broadcast live on Armenia’s Public TV and FIBA’s YouTube channel, ensuring a broad international audience.

High-level guests will also attend the tournament, including the president and secretary general of FIBA Europe, underscoring the event’s prestige.

Organizers are calling on fans to support Team Armenia in person and help turn the tournament into a true celebration of sport.