This year, Molten Corporation (Headquarters: Nishi-ku, Hiroshima City, Japan; President and CEO: Kiyo Tamiaki), a manufacturer of competition quality sports balls and equipment, will celebrate its 40th anniversary since supplying its first official game ball to FIBA (the International Basketball Federation, Headquarters: Mies, Switzerland; Secretary General: Andreas Zagklis) at the 1982 FIBA World Championship (currently FIBA Basketball World Cup). During this 40-year partnership, we have created a number of memorable moments in the world of international basketball and have continued the challenge of reaching new heights. Molten will continue to combine its innovative technology and excellent craftmanship to always provide the highest quality basketballs to FIBA and the world’s top basketball players.

Comment from Andreas Zagklis, FIBA Secretary General

Molten has always set out to be innovative and to attain excellence, and has been working closely with us for 40 years to achieve this. As FIBA's longest-standing partner, they have always been an important and valuable member of the FIBA Family. Molten basketballs are a crucial element for us as we attempt to take the game to new heights. I thank them for their commitment to basketball and to FIBA.

Comment from Kiyo Tamiaki, President and CEO of Molten Corporation

I am honored to be involved in creating the official game ball for the international competitions held by FIBA using the special design embodying the championship’s brand identity. Molten continuously pursues technological innovation and outstanding achievements, and for that purpose, we have been working in close cooperation with FIBA. I would like to once again take this opportunity to express my gratitude to Secretary General Andreas Zagklis and everyone involved with FIBA. Molten will continue to develop and provide products with sophisticated design and superb functionality for the entire basketball community and continue efforts to realize its commitment to the brand statement, “For the real game.”

History of partnership between FIBA and Molten

Molten’s basketball was adopted as FIBA’s official game ball for the first time at the 1982 FIBA World Championship (currently FIBA Basketball World Cup) in Colombia.
The official game ball for the 2019 FIBA Basketball World Cup was created using Molten’s latest innovation. The ball was developed after conducting a wide range of tests based on valuable feedback collected from players through cooperation by FIBA. The ball features remarkably enhanced control and grip, as well as the authentic feel of natural leather, and players have rated this ball highly.

Recent initiatives taken by FIBA and Molten

In recent years, with the aim of supporting the development of women’s basketball, which FIBA has positioned as a poriority strategy, a unique campaign is being implemented in Australia where the FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup 2022 is scheduled to be held.

Molten Ball Relay

This program will deliver supportive messages from junior female basketball players from 20 club teams in Australia to the 12 national teams competing in the world cup.

Women’s local champion program

This activity will select women who are working on promoting women’s advancement, such as female coaches, referees, and managers, by nomination from all over Australia, and introduce their efforts. The lucky three champions will be selected and invited to Sydney where the FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup is being held and meet Michele Timms, a former basketball player on the Australian national women’s basketball team who was elected to the FIBA Hall of Fame. In addition, they will be able to receive guidance from coaches and managers that are active on the front lines of the sport. FIBA and Molten will continue supporting the advancement of women who work hard to further develop women’s basketball.

About FIBA

FIBA (the International Basketball Federation) is an international basketball association.
It was established in 1932 and now has 212 national basketball federations around the world as members. It holds international competitions such as the FIBA Basketball World Cup and the FIBA 3x3 World Cup.
URL: https://www.fiba.basketball/

About Molten

Molten is a manufacturer of competition quality sports balls and equipment since 1958, and has been manufacturing and selling game balls for basketball, handball, soccer, and volleyball based on uncompromising quality.
Molten creates the official game balls and other innovative products such as sports equipment that are used in international competitions, world’s top leagues and teams, and continues to increase the level of quality as the global standard.
Please visit our website for more details.
URL: https://www.molten.co.jp/sports/en/

About “For the real game”

Molten’s brand statement, “For the real game,” encapsulates what we hope to accomplish through our products and activities. It’s a testament to our conviction and attitude that the real game happens only when impeccable balls and sports equipment enable athletes to realize their full potential and maximize performance.
We are committed to this brand statement and will continue our business activities by manufacturing high quality products.