On 9 February, Team Israel stormed onto the court at the Vancouver Convention Centre (VCC) and clinched the wheelchair basketball gold medal at the Invictus Games Vancouver Whistler 2025. In a thrilling final, they defeated Team USA 74-63 in a fast-paced match that had the crowd on its feet.
The championship game, played before a sold-out audience, was the climax of a tournament that embodied the indomitable spirit of wounded, injured, and sick service members and veterans.
Road to the final
The competition tipped off on 8 February, following a spectacular opening ceremony at BC Place. Preliminary matches featured 10-minute quarters, with teams battling for a spot in the final. By the time the deciding match arrived, the East and West Halls of the VCC buzzed with energy as fans packed the stands.
Wheelchair basketball, which originated in 1945 as a rehabilitation sport for U.S. World War II veterans, thrives on adaptability. The absence of a double-dribble rule, the use of wheelchairs as extensions of the players’ bodies, and the strategic physicality of the game make it a thrilling spectacle. Team Israel’s gold-medal performance exemplified these elements, showcasing a perfect blend of agility, strategy, and determination.
Standout performances
Team Israel played with speed and intelligence from the outset, beginning with their pool games on 8 February against strong opponents like France. Leading the charge was Avi Twito, who delivered a stellar 20-point performance, dazzling the crowd with his precise shooting and skilful manoeuvres.
Defensive stalwart Lior Levy played a crucial role in shutting down Team USA’s offensive plays while contributing 15 points himself. Israel took an early lead, using fast breaks and clever passing to outmanoeuvre their opponents. By halftime, they had established a commanding advantage, and their relentless pace in the second half secured their triumphant 74-63 victory.
Other Highlights from the Invictus Games
The tournament featured several other electrifying events. On 13 February, Team UK dominated wheelchair rugby, powering their way to gold with aggressive play. A new addition to the Games, wheelchair curling, took place at Hillcrest Centre on 9 February, where Team Canada showcased precision and skill to claim gold.
On 15 February, the VCC hosted sitting volleyball, with Team USA delivering powerful spikes to secure victory. Swimming events, held at the University of British Columbia on 14 February, saw Team Australia race to gold. The Games concluded on 16 February with indoor rowing at the VCC, where Team Canada rowed with strength and determination to take home another gold.
Legacy for adaptive sports
Since its debut at the Invictus Games in 2014, wheelchair basketball has grown into a global phenomenon, boasting over 100,000 players across more than 80 countries. Team Israel’s triumph on 9 February was more than just a gold medal victory—it was a testament to the resilience and spirit of adaptive sports worldwide.
As the countdown to Birmingham 2027 begins, these warriors on wheels have left an unforgettable mark on Vancouver’s winter stage.
