PR68-S12
Molten Extends Global Partnership with IWBF to Support Worldwide Growth of Wheelchair Basketball Through Two Paralympic Cycles
Molten Corporation (Headquarters: Nishi-ku, Hiroshima City, Japan; President and CEO: Kiyo Tamiaki) have agreed to renew the partnership with the International Wheelchair Basketball Federation (IWBF) to continue supplying the official game balls for its competitions.
This renewal further reinforces the long-standing partnership, reaffirming a commitment to supporting the continued growth and development of wheelchair basketball worldwide. Facilitated by FIBA Media & Marketing Services, the partnership ensures Molten remains the official game ball supplier for all IWBF-sanctioned tournaments, including the IWBF World Championships for Men and Women, all zonal qualifiers, the U23 Men’s and U25 Women’s World Championships, and the repechage tournaments for the Paralympic Games and World Championships.
Since becoming the first Global Partner of IWBF in 2018, Molten has deepened its understanding of the sport through its ongoing support. As wheelchair basketball has continued to evolve, Molten has contributed to creating an inclusive environment where everyone can equally enjoy the game. Molten is committed to developing optimal products and to creating an ideal environment through which everyone, regardless of their role in sports, can experience the powerful emotions that only sports can inspire. Through this commitment, Molten strives to make a world where sport is an integral part of everyday life.
“We are honored to continue our valued partnership with the IWBF and look forward to further strengthening our collaboration. With our unwavering commitment to producing the highest quality products, combined with the remarkable passion and dedication of the wheelchair basketball community, we are confident that together with IWBF and FIBA, we can contribute to the further growth and development of the sport worldwide,” stated Kiyofumi Tamiaki, President of Molten Corporation.
“We are extremely pleased to continue our valued partnership with Molten. Molten has been a steadfast supporter of wheelchair basketball, and their commitment to quality and inclusion mirrors our own values. Having this long-term agreement in place, made possible through the cooperation with FIBA Media & Marketing Services, gives us the stability to plan ahead with confidence and better support our Local Organising Committees - particularly in providing more basketballs to accommodate the growing number of participating teams. We are especially appreciative of Molten’s continued support, which directly benefits our players and competitions around the world,” said, Ulf Mehrens, IWBF President.
Insert quote from Andreas Zagklis – FIBA
"The renewal of the global partnership between Molten and the IWBF underscores therefore the unique strength of this long-standing collaboration. We are very happy that, in facilitating the extension, FIBA Media & Marketing Services was able to leverage the new strategic agreement between FIBA and the IWBF, demonstrating in action some of the benefits of the 'Stronger Together' principle."
About the International Wheelchair Basketball Federation (IWBF)
The International Wheelchair Basketball Federation (IWBF) is the international governing body responsible for wheelchair basketball. It is a non-profit organization whose purpose is to provide opportunities for persons with a disability to play the game of wheelchair basketball. For more information, please visit www.iwbf.org.
Media Contacts
Stephanie Gagne - stephanie.gagne@iwbf.org
About FIBA
FIBA (fiba.basketball) - the world governing body for basketball, is an independent association formed by 212 National Basketball Federations throughout the world. It is recognized as the sole competent authority in basketball by the International Olympic Committee (IOC).
For further information about FIBA, visit fiba.basketball or follow FIBA on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube.
About Molten Sports Business
Since its establishment in 1958, Molten has been manufacturing and distributing premium sports equipment, particularly competition balls for basketball, handball, football, and volleyball.
With a commitment to the highest standards of quality recognized worldwide, Molten continues to enhance its technologies and support athletes, coaches, and sports communities across the globe.
Visit the Molten Sports Official Site: https://www.molten.co.jp/sports/en/
Social Initiatives of Molten Sports Business
Molten aims to become a social brand that addresses societal challenges through its products and activities.
Key initiatives include:
-MY FOOTBALL KIT, an assembly-style football designed to bridge experience gaps among children and promote educational opportunities.
-B＋, a basketball brand initiative aimed at promoting and strengthening the sport.
-Arch to Hoop, an initiative by the General Incorporated Association "Arch to Hoop Okinawa" that addresses experience gaps between children and adults through basketball.
Keep Playing, an initiative promoting the continued participation of women in sports under the slogan “Keep doing what you love. Keep playing sports.”
Additionally, Molten is taking steps to reduce environmental impact by revisiting the materials used in its products.
About Molten Corporation
Starting with the manufacturing and sales of competition balls and automotive components, Molten has expanded its business by leveraging two core technologies: hollow-body technology, which controls internal air pressure, and polymer chemistry technology for advanced materials development.
Today, Molten operates in diverse fields, including sports equipment, automotive parts, medical and welfare devices, and marine and industrial products such as floating piers and bridge bearings.
Through continuous innovation, Molten remains committed to exploring new possibilities and contributing to a safe and sustainable society.
Visit our official website:https://www.molten.co.jp/index_en.html