Eight teams will compete in the men's tournament, and six countries will compete in the women's tournament. Female teams are from Belgium, France, Latvia, The Netherlands, SHAPE, and United Kingdom. (U.S. Army photo by Christophe Morel)

14 teams will participate in the 54rd International Basketball Tournament

CHIÈVRES, Belgium -- From Dec. 1 to Dec. 7, 14 teams will compete to win the 54rd annual SHAPE International Basketball Tournament. This year’s participation will be made up from seven nations and the SHAPE community.

Eight teams will compete in the men's tournament, and six countries will compete in the women's tournament. The men's teams are from Belgium, France, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, The Netherlands, SHAPE, and United Kingdom. Female teams are from Belgium, France, Latvia, The Netherlands, SHAPE, and United Kingdom.

Last year, Lithuania men's team won the tournament, and France won the title in the female competition. Lithuania recently won the CISM (International Military Sports Council) World Championships in China and is one of the favorites to win the tournament this year. For the very first time in history, a female squad will represent SHAPE.

The SHAPE IBT is a great opportunity to see military members playing basketball. Many of the players are military members from NATO countries and have been operationally deployed on NATO missions.

The competition will start on Sunday evening with the opening game commencing at 5 p.m. on Dec. 1. The SHAPE male team will challenge United Kingdom. Spectators are invited to bring all the accessories they need to show their support. All games will be held at the basketball court inside the SHAPE Fitness Center. Be part of this year’s tournament and show your support to your favorite team. 

For more information, call DSN 423-5325 or visit SHAPE2DAY.com.

By Christophe Morel, USAG Benelux Public Affairs