Estonian basketball referee to officiate at Women's World Cup

The FIBA Women's Basketball World Cup got underway in Berlin on Friday, September 4. Although Estonia's national team did not qualify for the tournament, the country will still be represented — referee Mihkel Männiste is one of 28 officials chosen by FIBA to work the event.

The appointment marks a historic moment for Estonian basketball. For the first time since the country restored its independence, a local referee will officiate matches at an adult world championship.

A major honor

Speaking to ERR, Männiste called the appointment a great honor and achievement, both personally and for Estonia's entire refereeing community. As far as he is aware, no Estonian referee has worked an adult world championship since independence was restored.

International experience

Männisте brings substantial international experience to the role, having officiated at the Women's EuroBasket tournaments in 2021 and 2023, the Women's EuroLeague final in Zaragoza, and last year's AfroBasket final tournament in Côte d'Ivoire.