Melbourne’s multicultural basketball celebration heads to John Cain Arena for a special 3x3 showcase.
MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA — Following its flagship multicultural basketball tournament earlier this month, Battle of Nations (BON) is set to return with BON: The Encore, a special 3x3 basketball activation taking place at John Cain Arena on Sunday, 25 October 2026, as part of Melbourne United’s Multicultural Festival.
Bringing together eight teams representing Melbourne’s diverse basketball communities, the two-hour showcase will celebrate culture, community and the shared passion for basketball ahead of Melbourne United’s NBL clash against the Sydney Kings.
Taking place from 3pm to 5pm, the activation will feature fast-paced 3x3 competition, with participating teams returning in their Battle of Nations national uniforms.
The Encore marks another step in Battle of Nations’ ambition to grow beyond its flagship tournament and establish itself as a platform connecting multicultural communities through basketball, sport and culture.
Battle of Nations Founder Chol Dut said:
“Battle of Nations has always been about more than basketball. It’s about bringing different communities together, celebrating where we come from and creating opportunities for people to connect through the game.
“To bring The Encore to John Cain Arena alongside Melbourne United is an exciting opportunity to showcase what we’re building and introduce Battle of Nations to a wider basketball audience.”
With its identity built around the concept of ‘The World Cup of Basketball Culture’, Battle of Nations continues to create experiences that celebrate Melbourne’s cultural diversity while strengthening connections between grassroots basketball and the professional sporting landscape.
EVENT DETAILS
Event: Battle of Nations: The Encore
Date: Sunday, 25 October 2026
Time: 3:00pm – 5:00pm
Venue: John Cain Arena, Melbourne Oval
Format: 8-team multicultural 3x3 basketball showcase
Occasion: Melbourne United Multicultural Festival
NBL Fixture: Melbourne United vs Sydney Kings
