Basketball is a favorite sport among our athletes. Players take it up at all ages and at all abilities, from young players learning to handle the ball to older, more experienced players who have the moves and know the strategies to play challenging ball.

In addition to team competition, basketball offers individual skills competition, allowing athletes to train and compete in basic basketball skills. Athletes must develop these key skills prior to advancing to team play.

It’s also one of our favorite Unified Sports®. Unified teams are made up of players with and without intellectual disabilities.

Find a Special Olympics Area program near you to participate. Contact your Area Manager if you’re interested in starting this sport in your Area.

Get an overview of the sport of Special Olympics basketball.  View the Basketball Fact Sheet