The DOT 3×3 Ladies League kicked off its latest season in Gaborone, this past weekend, drawing attention to the growing movement of women’s basketball in Botswana.
The first stop of the tour-style league featured nine competitive teams: 5ers, Alley Oops, And 1, Dream Dribble 2.0, Grizzlies, Net Ninjas, Rouges, Triple Rim Rockers, and Vixen. Net Ninjas dominated 5ers with a decisive 21-6 victory, while Triple Rim Rockers emerged victorious against Dream Dribble 2.0 in the semifinals. The finals brought intense action, with Net Ninjas edging out Triple Rim Rockers in a thrilling 15-14 win.
“The DOT 3×3 Ladies League was inspired by the need for more competitive play in ladies’ basketball, attracting and increasing female participation,” said Nyakallo Gaorongwe, a member of the league’s operations team. By hosting games in high-foot-traffic public spaces, the league aims to boost awareness and attract sponsorships.
The league enjoys the endorsement of the Botswana Basketball Association (BBA) and FIBA, providing crucial support in terms of equipment and promotion. “The BBA has recognized our efforts and generously allowed us to use their portable court and hoop for our events. This has come as a huge help, as it allows us to take ladies’ basketball to the people,” Gaorongwe noted.
In its second season, the league has adopted a tour system, featuring a series of tournaments across Gaborone. Open to players aged 15 to 35+, the competition includes a mix of recreational, competitive, and professional athletes. Teams accumulate points over four stops, with the top-ranked squads advancing to the final event.
A significant boost for players is the league’s registration on the FIBA 3×3 platform. “Registering with the FIBA 3×3 platform benefits the players and teams by giving them an opportunity to be competitive with the rest of the world. Our players will be able to track their world ranking, which will encourage them to play and compete in more tournaments,” Gaorongwe explained.
To maintain competitiveness and sustainability, the league offers free registration for all female participants and ensures accessibility by hosting games in central locations. A draft system mandates that each team includes at least one player over 25 years old, fostering mentorship and experience sharing. The league also features cash prizes—P3,000 for first place, P2,000 for second, and P1,000 for third.
Despite its promising trajectory, the league faces challenges, particularly in securing sponsorship and funding for venues, labor, and prizes. “We have managed to run the first tour stop with the help of our amazing basketball community, who volunteered to transport the court, set up the hoop, and promote us on social media. However, this is unsustainable, and we are truly on a hunt for a sponsor to help elevate the league,” said Gaorongwe. The strategic placement of tournament stops in key areas aims to increase visibility and attract corporate support.
As the league gains momentum, Gaorongwe emphasized the importance of support from all corners. “Supporting women’s basketball is crucial for promoting gender equality, empowering female athletes, and fostering inclusivity in sports while also providing role models for young girls. We are here to break barriers and generate more interest in the sport.”
Encouraging participation, she added, “To our participants—compete hard, let’s give them a show, ladies! To our fans—continue sharing, liking, commenting on our socials (@dorothyOkatchFoundation on Facebook), and attending all our tour stops. To our stakeholders—your support speaks volumes in fostering a sense of unity and pride in women’s sports. Kindly contact us on (+267) 74413201/ 72489114 if you are interested in partnering with us.”
