The organizers of the annual Battle for Turtle Island have announced that team registration is now open for its fourth annual all-Indigenous 5x5 basketball tournament, set to take place from May 15 to May 17, 2026.
The tournament will feature four divisions, including men’s, women’s, U17 boys, and U17 girls, and is expected to once again bring together athletes, teams, and communities for a high-level weekend of competition and celebration through basketball.
Available team spots include 16 teams in the men’s division, 12 teams in the women’s division, 8 teams in the U17 boys division, and 8 teams in the U17 girls division. Organizers have indicated that space is limited and encourage teams to register early to secure their place in the event.
The adult divisions will play for a 100 percent payout and will also receive championship merchandise and medals. Registration for adult teams is $750. Youth teams in the U17 boys and U17 girls divisions will compete for championship merchandise and medals, with registration set at $500 per team.
The event will be hosted at the University of Winnipeg Duckworth Centre and will continue the tournament’s growing tradition of creating competitive and meaningful opportunities for Indigenous athletes in Manitoba and beyond.
Teams wishing to register are asked to email warriorzbasketball3@gmail.com with the subject line: BFTI Registration - [Division]. Registration emails must include the team name, team contact person, email address, and phone number.
Organizers have also advised that a 50 percent non-refundable retainer is required to secure a team’s spot in the tournament. All inquiries and registrations will be responded to as quickly as possible.
Battle for Turtle Island continues to build momentum as a signature Indigenous basketball event, offering strong competition across youth and adult divisions while celebrating community, culture, and the game.
For registration information, email warriorzbasketball3@gmail.com.