MIES (Switzerland) – Fresh off cementing her legacy on the half-court, Sonja Greinacher continues to inspire the next generation after being named an Athlete Role Model for the Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games. It’s a fitting honor for one of 3×3 basketball’s defining figures.

Greinacher’s rise to global prominence reached its peak at the Paris 2024 Olympics, where she delivered a tournament for the ages. The German star led her team to a historic gold medal, which was the country’s first-ever Olympic medal in basketball, while earning MVP honors after a string of clutch performances on the biggest stage. Her defining moment came in the final, calmly knocking down the go-ahead shot in a thrilling win over Spain, underlining her reputation as a player who thrives when the stakes are highest.

However, beyond the buckets and the brilliance, Greinacher embodies what 3×3 basketball is all about: resilience, adaptability and a deep love for the game. Standing at 1.90m and bringing years of experience, she has evolved into a complete player whose leadership and composure anchor her team in pressure moments.

Now, she takes on a new mission—off the court.

As a Role Model for Dakar 2026, Greinacher will work closely with young athletes, sharing her journey, values and lessons learned from competing at the highest level. The initiative connects Olympians with Youth Olympic participants, offering mentorship and guidance while promoting the Olympic values of excellence, respect and friendship.

For a player who has already inspired fans with her performances, this next chapter feels like a natural extension. Greinacher’s story, from collegiate basketball in the USA to standing atop the Olympic podium, offers a powerful message to aspiring athletes: that growth is rarely linear and that belief, combined with relentless work, can lead to historic achievements.

In many ways, her appointment reflects the growing impact of 3×3 basketball on the global stage. The fast-paced, urban discipline has produced a new generation of stars who connect with youth in a unique and authentic way—and Greinacher stands right at the forefront of that movement.

From clutch shots in Paris to shaping futures in Dakar, Greinacher’s influence continues to expand—proving that true greatness isn’t just measured in medals, but in the legacy you leave behind.

FIBA