28 June 2026 | Images by Xolani Sithole

On the second day of the Gay Games XII València 2026, the Muholi Art Institute documented the basketball competitions held at Universitat Politècnica de València, where athletes from across the world gathered in a celebration of excellence, inclusion, and community.

The courts were marked by determination, teamwork, and a shared commitment to the values that have long defined the Gay Games: participation, respect, and belonging. Beyond the competition itself, the event provided a powerful reminder of sport's capacity to bring together people of diverse identities, cultures, and experiences within an environment grounded in solidarity and mutual support.

Through the lens of photographer Xolani Sithole, Muholi Art Institute documented moments that reflect both the intensity of athletic performance and the human connections forged throughout the tournament. The images capture not only the movement and dynamism of the game, but also the broader significance of creating inclusive spaces where every participant is welcomed and celebrated.

As the first edition of the Gay Games to be hosted in Spain and the Mediterranean region, Gay Games XII València 2026 continues to demonstrate how sport can serve as a platform for visibility, cultural exchange, and collective belonging. The basketball competitions at the Universitat Politècnica de València offered yet another example of these values in action, reinforcing the Games' enduring commitment to diversity, equality, and participation for all.

Muholi Art Institute remains dedicated to documenting these historic moments, amplifying stories of resilience, joy, and community through visual practice and cultural engagement.