Ghana’s national phygital basketball team, operating under the auspices of the Ghana Esports Federation (GESF), is set to travel to the United Arab Emirates later this month to participate in the Games of the Future, a premier international competition that blends traditional sport with digital gaming.
The Ghanaian contingent, made up of four athletes and three officials, will represent the nation in Abu Dhabi from 17 to 24 December 2025. The event will be staged at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre and is expected to attract participation from more than 100 countries, with over 2,000 spectators in attendance.
Phygital basketball, officially designated as “Phygital Basketball, 3×3 FreeStyle,” features a unique two-stage competitive format. Teams compete first in a digital round using the latest licensed version of 3×3 FreeStyle, Rebound, followed by a physical 2-x-2 basketball match on a standard 3-x-3 court. Scores accumulated during the digital stage are carried over into the physical contest, with the combined total determining the overall winner.
The discipline carries a total prize pool of US$400,000 and demands a high level of both esports proficiency and athletic performance.
The team’s preparations have received significant support from the Ministry of Sports and Recreation and the National Sports Authority, which have provided financial backing and diplomatic assistance to ensure the delegation is fully prepared for the competition.
Additionally, the Ghana Esports Federation’s partnership with the World Phygital Community continues to strengthen the country’s presence in this rapidly evolving sporting discipline.
A total of sixteen teams will compete in the phygital basketball event, with Ghana scheduled to face the United States of America in its opening match.