Nagaland creates history at 5th 3×3 National Basketball C’ship

Team Nagaland scripted history at the 5th 3×3 National Basketball Championship for Men & Women, held in Delhi, by topping their group and qualifying for the pre-quarterfinals, an unprecedented achievement in Nagaland’s basketball journey.
Placed in Group E alongside Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh, Himachal Pradesh and Assam, the Nagaland contingent displayed resilience, teamwork and individual brilliance to finish first in the group stage.
Against Chhattisgarh (21–11), Atseizo led the charge with 10 points, supported by Cuwe (6) and Sede (5). With Himachal Pradesh (21–11), a balanced attack saw Nagaland’s Sede score 8, Cuwe 7, Atseizo 4 and Yeye 2. Against Jharkhand (21–4), Cuwe starred with 8 points, while Atseizo (6), Sede (4) and Yeye (3) sealed qualification. Against Assam (21–11), Nagaland’s Atseizo once again spearheaded the offense with 10 points, while Sede added 6, ensuring Nagaland topped Group E.
In the pre-quarterfinals, Nagaland faced Karnataka in a closely contested match. Despite a spirited effort, the team bowed out 11–17, with Atseizo and Cuwe contributing 5 points each.
Nagaland’s campaign was marked not only by victories but by breaking barriers and setting records. Their qualification for the knockout stage is the first in the state’s basketball history, proving that Naga cagers can excel in the fast-paced 3×3 format. Hon. Secretary of the Nagaland Basketball Association hailed the achievement as a “dream realized” for Nagaland basketball. He praised the players’ courage, discipline and heart, while calling for greater support from government, institutions and private stakeholders to build on this success.
“This historic achievement is more than just a sporting milestone—it is a dream realized for Nagaland basketball,” he said. “Together, we can transform this moment into a legacy and make Nagaland a beacon of basketball excellence in India.”