The 2025 NWBA Wheelchair Basketball National Championships will be held at the Henrico Sports and Events Center, with the Junior Divisions from April 4-6 and the Adult Divisions from April 11-13. This event is a joint effort by the NWBA, Sportable, the Henrico Sports and Entertainment Authority, and Richmond Region Tourism.
Wheelchair basketball began in 1946, started by World War II veterans in VA hospitals and the Corona Naval Station. The first National Wheelchair Basketball Tournament was organized in 1948 by Tim Nugent of the University of Illinois, marking the start of a rapidly growing sport.
For the second year, Sportable, a local non-profit organization, is hosting the championships in partnership with Richmond Region Tourism and the Henrico Sports and Entertainment Authority. Their involvement with the NWBA began in 2023 when they successfully bid to host the event. They were confident in the accessibility features of the newly built Henrico Sports and Event Center. Now in its 20th year, Sportable aims to use this event to raise awareness and support for their adaptive sports programs, showcasing their community impact and the athletes' skills.
The championships feature highly competitive, full-court, 5-on-5 games with the same rules and equipment as able-bodied basketball. The event fosters unique camaraderie among athletes with disabilities, providing a sense of belonging and community. The shared experiences and inclusive environment make the event special, allowing athletes to compete fiercely on the court while forming friendships off the court. The event also aims to change perceptions about people with disabilities, highlighting their skills and athleticism.
The NWBA has grown to over 200 teams and has a significant international presence, with teams from North and South America, Africa, Asia, and Europe competing in the Paralympic Games and World Championships. The partnership with Sportable and the hosting of the national championships enhance the event experience for athletes and bring attention to the adaptive sports industry, encouraging more people to get involved and support the cause.
Things to Know Before You Go
Tickets for the 2025 NWBA Wheelchair Basketball National Championships at the Henrico Sports and Events Center are priced to fit different needs:
- A single-day ticket costs $20, giving you access to one of the six event days, with games running from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. and re-entry allowed with a wristband.
- For those wanting more flexibility, an all-access pass is available for $45, offering re-entry for all six days.
- Families can opt for a family pass at $109, which provides all-access passes for up to six family members.
🏀Championship games happen each Sunday at 10 am, 12 pm, and 2 pm.
🎗️All ticket sales benefit Sportable, a local Richmond non-profit dedicated to helping people with disabilities access sports.
Tickets can be purchased here: https://sportable.org/nationals-tickets/
Volunteer opportunities are here: https://sportable.org/nwba-nationals/#nationals-volunteer
NWBA Championship Giveaway
Enter our NWBA Championship Giveaway for your chance to win a family pass to attend all six days by completing the form below:
