It’s not exactly the WNBA, although the ratings are comparable: it’s the 2008 Islamic Games, held this past weekend in South Brunswick, New Jersey. And while the culture of Islam tends to be a littler tougher for women, they did have female events. Of course, they played basketball wearing the traditional hajib scarf and long, baggy sweatshirts.

From TIME’s coverage, “[t]he Games were staged according to strict Islamic codes, meaning that girls are separated from boys, staging their events in a large gymnasium.” And this level of athletics is about all the girls can enjoy — because their religion prohibits them from playing college and pro ball, given their uniforms. Read more…