The North American Indigenous Games (NAIG) Council has announced the conditional award of the 2028 Games to Norway House Cree Nation and the Southern Chiefs’ Organization, with competitions and activities planned for Winnipeg and other Manitoba locations from July 9–23, 2028.
For the basketball community, the Games will welcome Indigenous athletes from across Canada and the United States to compete in Manitoba. The planned basketball age divisions will be 14U, 16U and 19U, with male and female teams in each division. Further details regarding basketball venues, competition schedules and eligibility requirements will be shared as planning advances.
The Games are expected to bring together upwards of 5,250 Indigenous athletes, coaches and team officials from across Turtle Island. Alongside traditional and contemporary sport competitions, a major cultural program will celebrate the diversity, strength and traditions of Indigenous nations in Manitoba and across North America.
Basketball’s inclusion will give young Indigenous players an opportunity to demonstrate their skills, represent their communities and build connections through the game. Hosting the event in Manitoba will also provide local basketball supporters with an opportunity to experience an international Indigenous sporting and cultural gathering.
The conditional award follows a national bid process and remains subject to several key milestones before a formal Host Agreement is signed. The NAIG Council, Norway House Cree Nation and the Southern Chiefs’ Organization will work with government and community partners to meet those requirements and establish the Host Society responsible for planning and delivering the Games.
Partners involved in the next stage include the Government of Canada, Government of Manitoba, City of Winnipeg and Winnipeg Economic Development & Tourism.
Additional information about the Games, including venues, sport programming, volunteer opportunities and other planning milestones, will be announced as preparations progress.
About the North American Indigenous Games
The North American Indigenous Games are an international multi-sport and cultural celebration bringing together Indigenous youth from across Turtle Island. The Games provide young athletes with opportunities to compete at a high level while celebrating Indigenous cultures, traditions and community.
Source: https://scoinc.mb.ca/2028-north-american-indigenous-games/