Lake Manitoba First Nation, Manitoba – The Anishinaabe Winterfest Basketball Tournament is set to take place from January 30th to February 1st, 2026, bringing together over 160 talented athletes in what promises to be an exciting weekend of competition. This inaugural tournament is a significant milestone as it marks the first major sporting event held in the Interlake region.
The tournament will feature a range of divisions, including Men’s, Women’s, and Youth categories, with both 5-on-5 and 3-on-3 games scheduled throughout the weekend. Sanctioned by Basketball Manitoba, this event not only showcases the incredible skills of diverse athletes but also fosters a spirit of camaraderie and sportsmanship among participants.
“We are thrilled to host the Anishinaabe Winterfest Basketball Tournament,” said Chief Cornell McLean of Lake Manitoba First Nation. “This event creates safe avenues for competition and sport, especially for rural communities. We aim to promote healthy lifestyles, and the joy of sport while bringing our communities together.”
The Anishinaabe Winterfest Basketball Tournament is expected to create significant economic spinoffs for Lundar and the Lake Manitoba First Nation, benefiting local businesses and promoting tourism in the area.
Looking ahead, organizers are already envisioning an expanded future for this tournament. The goal is to establish it as an annual event that will continue to enrich the community’s social fabric and provide athletes with a platform to demonstrate their skills on a larger stage.
“We hope to build on this success and make the Anishinaabe Winterfest Basketball Tournament a staple in the Interlake region’s sports calendar,” added Karl Zadnik, Executive Director of IRTC.
Join us for a weekend filled with outstanding basketball, community spirit, and cultural celebration.
For all media enquirires contact Karl Zadnik
Email: info@irtc.ca
