Yerevan will host the FIBA U20 European Championship Division B from July 11 to 20, welcoming around 400 participants from 21 countries.

During a press briefing, Armenia’s Minister of Education, Science, Culture and Sports Zhanna Andreasyan and the Secretary General of the Basketball Federation of Armenia Artur Nazaryan outlined preparations and organizational details.

Andreasyan emphasized the significance of hosting this championship, noting that Armenia’s 2024–2030 strategic plan for physical culture and sports prioritizes promoting team sports. The basketball tournament fits directly within this framework.

Beyond the players, 1,000 foreign fans and volunteers are expected to arrive, marking a record number of participants for a team sport tournament in Armenia.

According to Nazaryan, Armenia’s U20 national team has been in training camp for over a month, playing several friendly matches against strong teams from Russia and Switzerland. A friendly match with Georgia is scheduled for July 9. Numerous national teams will arrive in Yerevan, and a tough competition is anticipated.

“There are no weak opponents in this tournament; all teams are strong, and serious competition is expected. Among the favorites are Latvia, Turkey, Montenegro, and Croatia—basketball powerhouses. Armenia will face Latvia in its first match, which will be a real test,” said Nazaryan.

He added that the Armenian team is fully prepared for the championship and has significant potential. Finishing in the top 10 would be considered a major success for Armenia’s U20 team.

The matches will be broadcast on Armenia’s First Channel and the FIBA YouTube channel, increasing accessibility and boosting Armenia’s international visibility.