MACAU (China) – Ub (SRB) continued to set the pace on the FIBA 3×3 World Tour 2026, capturing their third title of the season with a 21-15 victory over Shanghai (CHN) in the Final of World Tour Macau. With Marko Brankovic earning MVP honors, the 13th stop of the campaign delivered another reminder that the Serbian powerhouse remain a force to be reckoned with as the race to Rio de Janeiro enters the deep waters.

From Ub’s continued dominance to Brankovic’s breakthrough and the increasingly competitive title race, here is what we learned from FIBA 3×3 World Tour Macau 2026.

Finding ways to win

Never count out Ub. The Serbian powerhouse arrived in Macau looking to add another title to their 2026 collection, and they wanted to rebound from a subpar performance at WT Bucharest. Not surprisingly, the Serbians delivered when it mattered most. They swept through the Quarter-Finals and Semi-Finals before overcoming Shanghai in the Final.

The victory marked Ub’s third World Tour stop win of the season, following their triumphs in Chengdu and Marseille. It also made them the second team to reach three titles in 2026, joining Baskets Bonn (GER), who had already achieved the feat.

Ub’s latest success also carried extra significance in Macau. They had previously won the stop in 2023 and 2024, making this their third title in the city. Three championships in four editions underline the team’s remarkable ability to deliver on one of the World Tour’s most iconic stages.

The challengers continue to emerge, but Ub remain firmly among the teams to beat.

Stepping into the spotlight

For all of Ub’s collective strength, Macau belonged to Marko Brankovic. The Serbian standout was named MVP after putting together one of the tournament’s strongest statistical performances. He finished with a player value of 47.7, 36 total points and eight two-pointers made, ranking second in all three categories.

Brankovic was especially influential in the knockout phase. He poured in 11 points, including four two-pointers, in Ub’s 22-13 Quarter-Final win over DeQing (CHN), helping his team establish control early. His scoring continued to make a difference as Ub progressed through the Semi-Finals and Final.

The award marked Brankovic’s first World Tour MVP honor of the 2026 season. It was also another example of the depth within a team that continues to find different players capable of taking center stage.

Three titles, three MVPs

Perhaps the most telling detail of Ub’s run is that their three World Tour titles this season have produced three different MVPs.

Filip Kaluderovic earned the honor when Ub won at WT Chengdu. Strahinja Stojacic followed with the MVP award at WT Marseille. In Macau, it was Brankovic’s turn to claim the spotlight.

That variety speaks to the depth of Ub’s roster. While Stojacic remains one of the circuit’s defining stars, the team’s success is not built around a single player carrying the load every weekend. Different members of the squad can deliver decisive performances, making Ub particularly difficult to contain across a full tournament.

Three titles and three individual award winners tell a compelling story: Ub’s biggest strength may be their ability to keep producing heroes.

Wide open race

Ub’s rise to three titles has added another layer to an already compelling World Tour season. Baskets Bonn were the first team to reach three victories, and Ub have now joined them at the top of the multiple-title winners’ list. Liman (SRB) and Amsterdam RABOBANK (NED) have each won twice, while Miami (USA), Hangzhou Jingwei (CHN) and Antwerp (BEL) have each claimed one title.

The spread of winners highlights the depth of the circuit. Established powers continue to deliver, but the field has repeatedly shown that no team can afford to take a stop for granted.

With four World Tour stops remaining before the Final in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, on December 12-13, every result carries added importance. The fight for titles, ranking points and a strong finish to the season is entering a decisive phase.

Historic setting

The competition also marked a milestone for the host city. Macau welcomed the World Tour for the fourth time, but 2026 was the first edition staged at the iconic Ruins of Saint Paul’s.

The historic landmark provided a striking backdrop for the fast-paced action of 3×3 basketball, bringing the sport to one of Macau’s most recognizable cultural sites. The setting added another memorable chapter to the city’s relationship with the World Tour.

With Ub once again lifting the trophy, Macau proved a fitting stage for a team that continues to build its legacy on the international circuit.

Road to Rio

Macau was the 13th stop of the FIBA 3×3 World Tour 2026 and the start of the final third of the season. Four stops remain before the circuit’s showpiece Final in Rio de Janeiro on December 12-13.

Ub have strengthened their position with a third title, Brankovic has announced himself as another key figure in their campaign, and the chasing pack remains determined to close the gap.

The final stretch promises little room for error. If Macau taught us anything, it is that Ub remain the benchmark, but the race for World Tour supremacy is far from over.

Stay Connected

Follow all the latest action from the FIBA 3×3 World Tour throughout the 2026 season by visiting the official World Tour website, where you can find the latest news, team standings, player statistics and everything you need to follow the Race to the Final. Fans can also keep track of the Event Calendar and the latest FIBA 3×3 Individual and Federation Rankings as teams and players continue their push toward the season finale.

Want to learn more about 3×3 basketball? Explore the official FIBA 3×3 Rules to understand the unique fast-paced format of the game, or discover the FIBA 3×3 Competition Structure to see how the discipline’s global pathway connects grassroots events, professional tours and world-class international competitions.

FIBA

UTSUNOMIYA (Japan) – The FIBA 3×3 World Tour Utsunomiya Opener 2026 delivered a strong start to the new season, with Liman (SRB) claiming the title and setting the early pace on the global 3×3 basketball circuit.

From dominant runs to emerging contenders and standout individual performances, here’s what we learned from the season-opening event.

Liman send early statement

Liman wasted no time establishing themselves as a contender in 2026.

They combined control, efficiency and shot-making throughout the tournament, culminating in a 21-15 win over Skyliners (GER) in the Final. Their most decisive moment came in the Quarter-Finals, where they dethroned defending champions Miami (USA), 20-8.

The performance signals that Liman are ready to challenge consistently at the top of the World Tour this season.

Milutinovic leads from the front

Tournament MVP Andreja Milutinovic was central to Liman’s success.

He delivered across all stages of the event, finishing with 33 total points and ranking second overall in player value. His ability to score in bursts and control key moments gave Liman a consistent edge.

In a format where momentum shifts quickly, Milutinovic’s composure stood out.

Challenger form translates for Skyliners

Skyliners (GER) continued their upward trajectory after winning the Hengqin Challenger.

They carried that momentum into Utsunomiya, going unbeaten on Day 1 and advancing to the Final despite an injury to Leon Fertig in the knockout stage.

Their run highlights the growing connection between Challenger success and World Tour competitiveness.

Of course, everyone hopes Fertig will have a full recovery as soon as possible.

Amsterdam respond, but questions remain

Amsterdam RABOBANK (NED) bounced back from a difficult Hengqin Challenger outing to go unbeaten in pool play and reach the Quarter-Finals.

Led by Maarten Bouwknecht, they showed improved rhythm and structure, but their loss to Antwerp (BEL) in the knockout stage underlined the fine margins at this level.

The foundation is there for the Dutch side, but consistency will be key moving forward.

Ub still the benchmark under pressure

Top seed Ub (SRB) advanced to the Semi-Finals but were tested throughout the event.

They edged close games in pool play and showed control in their Quarter-Finals win over Shanghai (CHN), but were unable to convert their run into an appearance in the Final.

Still, despite falling short of winning WT Utsunomiya this year, Ub remain the reference point for consistency and structure on the FIBA 3×3 World Tour.

Depth of field continues to grow

The tournament once again highlighted the increasing depth across the 3×3 basketball landscape.

Teams like Antwerp and Raudondvaris Hoptrans (LTU) delivered strong performances, while Shanghai showed competitiveness against higher-seeded teams.

With close games across all pools and knockout rounds, the margin between teams continues to narrow.

Utsunomiya delivers milestone edition

Beyond the competition, the event marked key milestones for the host city.

Utsunomiya celebrated a decade of hosting 3×3 basketball and the 130th anniversary of the city, reinforcing its role as one of the most established stops on the FIBA 3×3 World Tour.

Strong fan support and a consistent event setting once again provided a fitting stage for the season opener.

Season narrative begins

With the first stop complete, early storylines are already taking shape.

Liman have set the pace, emerging teams have shown they can compete, and established contenders remain in the mix.

As the FIBA 3×3 World Tour 2026 continues, Utsunomiya has once again provided a clear starting point for the season ahead.

FIBA

BUCHAREST (Romania) – Amsterdam RABOBANK (NED) successfully defended their FIBA 3×3 World Tour Bucharest title, while Worthy de Jong delivered another MVP performance and Fuengirola (ESP) made history at the 12th stop of the 2026 season.

The Dutch side completed a perfect seven-game run from the Qualifying Draw to the Final, where they edged Fuengirola, 19-17, to claim their second World Tour stop win of the year. In contrast, Bucharest also delivered a stunning early exit for top-ranked Ub (SRB), another reminder of the depth across the circuit and a historic breakthrough for Spanish 3×3 basketball.

With the European leg of the World Tour now complete and five stops remaining before the season-ending Final in Rio de Janeiro, here are five things we learned from Bucharest.

Dutch hitting their stride

The Dutch side opened with two narrow victories in the Qualifying Draw, edging Phoenix (USA) 21–20 before getting past Lausanne (SUI) 19–18, then carried that form into the Main Draw with convincing 20–15 wins over Baskets Bonn (GER) and Toulouse (FRA) to finish Pool C unbeaten.

The knockout rounds brought tougher tests, but Amsterdam found a way through each one. They beat Hangzhou Jingwei (CHN) 16–13 in the Quarter-Finals before overcoming Miami (USA) 21–18 in a high-scoring Semi-Final, with Worthy de Jong delivering a standout 16-point performance. Amsterdam then held their nerve in a tense Final against Fuengirola, prevailing only after de Jong drained the decisive two-pointer as time expired.

The title was Amsterdam’s second World Tour stop victory of the 2026 season, following their triumph in Vienna, and confirmed their ability to navigate different types of contests, from one-point battles in qualifying to pressure-packed knockout games. Winning all seven games in Bucharest, the Dutch side successfully sent a strong message as the World Tour heads into its final third.

Hype-Worthy

If Amsterdam’s title defense had a defining figure, it was Worthy de Jong. The Dutch star earned his second World Tour MVP award of the 2026 season after putting together a dominant all-around campaign in Bucharest. He finished first in overall Player Value with 58.4, led the tournament with 46 points and 26 highlights, and collected 20 rebounds. His five dunks ranked second among all players.

De Jong saved some of his biggest moments for the knockout rounds. He recorded a sublime triple-five — six points, seven rebounds and eight highlights — in the Quarter-Final against Hangzhou Jingwei, then exploded for 16 points in Amsterdam’s Semi-Final victory over Miami.

But his most important contribution came in the Final. With the score tied at 17-17 and the title on the line, de Jong drained the game-winning two-pointer to seal Amsterdam’s second Bucharest crown in succession.

His performance reinforced why he remains one of the most influential players in 3×3 basketball. He can score in bunches, create opportunities for teammates and deliver under pressure. In Bucharest, he did all three and finished the job when it mattered most.

Spanish 3×3 history

As for Fuengirola, they may have fallen just short of the title, but their Bucharest campaign was historic. The Spanish side became the first Spanish professional team to reach a FIBA 3×3 World Tour Final, breaking new ground for the country’s presence on the circuit.

Their run was built on disciplined performances and timely scoring. After finishing atop Pool D, Fuengirola defeated DeQing (CHN), 21-15, in the Quarter-Finals before overcoming Kaunas VDU (LTU), 21-18, in the Semi-Finals.

The latter victory was particularly impressive. Kaunas held a 13-12 lead before Fuengirola produced a decisive 5-0 run to take control and book their place in the Final. Isaac Mayo led the Spanish side with eight points in the Semi-Final.

Fuengirola then pushed Amsterdam all the way in a defensive-minded Final. They led 8-5 midway through the contest and twice fought back to level the score, including at 17-17 late in the game, before de Jong’s winner ended their title hopes.

The result was still a significant milestone. Fuengirola have shown they can compete with established World Tour contenders and make a deep run on such a big stage. Their historic Final appearance could provide a foundation for further success as the season continues.

Shock elimination

One of the biggest surprises in Bucharest came before the knockout rounds even began. Ub entered the tournament as the No. 1 team in the FIBA 3×3 World Tour 2026 standings. However, they failed to advance from Pool A, which was the first time they had missed the Quarter-Finals at a World Tour stop this year.

The Serbian powerhouse opened their campaign with a 21-11 loss to Kaunas VDU, leaving themselves with little margin for error. They responded with a 21-16 victory over Hangzhou Jingwei, but that was not enough to secure progression. All three Pool A teams finished with identical 1-1 records. Kaunas and Hangzhou advanced on points, while Ub were eliminated despite their win over Hangzhou.

The outcome was a stark reminder of the unforgiving nature of 3×3 basketball. With short games and little room to recover from a slow start, even the strongest teams can find themselves on the wrong side of a close pool.

For Ub, Bucharest was a rare setback in an otherwise strong season. For their rivals, it was proof that reputation and ranking offer no guarantees once the ball goes up.

Competitive balance

Bucharest added another chapter to one of the season’s most compelling themes: parity.

At this stage of the 2026 campaign, seven different teams have won FIBA 3×3 World Tour 2026 stops. Baskets Bonn lead the way with three titles, while Liman (SRB), Ub and Amsterdam RABOBANK have each won twice. Miami, Hangzhou Jingwei and Antwerp (BEL) have also claimed victories.

That spread of winners highlights how difficult it has been for any one team to dominate the circuit. Baskets Bonn have been the most consistent, but Amsterdam’s Bucharest triumph and Antwerp’s breakthrough in DeQing show that other contenders can also find their moment.

And the list of teams still chasing a first World Tour stop win this season remains intriguing. Fuengirola have now demonstrated their potential with a historic Final appearance, while Skyliners, Shanghai, Ulaanbaatar MMC Energy, Vienna, DeQing and Raudondvaris Hoptrans remain among the names looking to break through.

The race is far from settled. With five World Tour stops in addition to the FIBA 3×3 World Tour Rio de Janeiro Final 2026 remaining, there is still plenty of time for the season’s storylines to shift.

Road to Rio continues

Bucharest marked the 12th stop of the 2026 FIBA 3×3 World Tour and the final European stop of the season. Amsterdam RABOBANK leave Romania with a second title of the year, Worthy de Jong adds another MVP award and Fuengirola return home as the first Spanish professional team to reach a World Tour Final.

Five stops remain before the season-ending FIBA 3×3 World Tour Final in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, on December 12–13, with the race for the title still taking shape. Seven different teams have won a World Tour stop this season, while Bucharest showed just how fine the margins can be: the top-ranked Ub failed to reach the Quarter-Finals, and Amsterdam needed a late two-pointer from de Jong to secure the crown.

With Macau next on the calendar, the remaining stops offer contenders a chance to build momentum or make a strong late-season push into the title conversation before the World Tour reaches its climax in Rio.

Stay Connected

Follow all the latest action from the FIBA 3×3 World Tour throughout the 2026 season by visiting the official World Tour website, where you can find the latest news, team standings, player statistics and everything you need to follow the Race to the Final. Fans can also keep track of the Event Calendar and the latest FIBA 3×3 Individual and Federation Rankings as teams and players continue their push toward the season finale.

Want to learn more about 3×3 basketball? Explore the official FIBA 3×3 Rules to understand the unique fast-paced format of the game, or discover the FIBA 3×3 Competition Structure to see how the discipline’s global pathway connects grassroots events, professional tours and world-class international competitions.

FIBA

DEQING (China) – Antwerp (BEL) finally got their hands on a FIBA 3×3 World Tour stop title in 2026, defeating Ub in a thrilling Final to cap a memorable weekend in Deqing. But beyond the Belgian breakthrough, the 11th stop of the season offered another reminder of just how open the World Tour has become, with seven different teams now having lifted a trophy and six more stops still to play before the World Tour Final in Rio de Janeiro.

Job Done

Antwerp’s 2026 season has been a tale of near-misses and flashes of promise, but Deqing finally delivered the breakthrough. The Belgians arrived with plenty of evidence that they could compete at the highest level, having already won three Challenger stops this season. Yet a World Tour title had remained elusive.

That changed in Deqing. After finishing second in their pool, Antwerp survived a dramatic Quarter-Final against Miami (USA), 21-18, before producing one of their strongest performances of the season in a 21-10 Semi-Final win over Vienna (AUT).

Then came Ub (SRB). The Final was a back-and-forth battle, but Antwerp found the decisive plays down the stretch to win 21-17 and claim their first World Tour stop title of 2026. It was the breakthrough they had been chasing all season.

Man of the Moment

If Antwerp’s title was the headline, Dennis Donkor’s performance was the individual story. The Belgian star was named MVP after putting together the tournament’s best statistical profile. Donkor finished with a 41.9 Player Value, the highest mark in Deqing, while his 42 total points and 16 two-pointers also led the field.

More importantly, he delivered when Antwerp needed him most. Donkor scored eight points against Miami in the Quarter-Finals, added 10 in the Semi-Final rout of Vienna and contributed eight more in the Final against Ub. His production gave Antwerp a consistent offensive weapon throughout the knockout phase and made him a fitting choice for the MVP award.

Parity Continues

Eleven stops into the 2026 season, the list of winners tells its own story. Baskets Bonn (GER) have three titles, while Liman (SRB) and Ub have two apiece. Miami, Hangzhou Jingwei (CHN), Amsterdam RABOBANK (NED) and now Antwerp have each won once.

That means seven different teams have claimed World Tour stops this season, underlining the depth and parity across the Pro Circuit. And there is still plenty of room for that list to grow. Skyliners (GER), Shanghai (CHN), Ulaanbaatar MMC Energy (MGL), DeQing (CHN), Raudondvaris Hoptrans (LTU), Fuengirola (ESP), Toulouse (FRA) and Vienna are among the big name teams still searching for their first World Tour stop victory of 2026. With six stops remaining before Rio, there is plenty of time for another name to join the winners’ circle.

Six before Rio

Deqing was the 11th World Tour stop of 2026, but the season is nowhere near its conclusion. There are now six World Tour stops remaining before the World Tour Final in Rio de Janeiro on December 12-13, giving the teams still searching for a breakthrough plenty of opportunities to change their fortunes.

For the established winners, meanwhile, the remaining stops provide a chance to add to their trophy haul and strengthen their position heading toward Rio. The balance of power can still shift significantly before the season reaches its climax.

Deqing’s 3×3 Story

The FIBA 3×3 World Tour’s second consecutive visit to Deqing provided another major weekend for one of China’s established 3×3 basketball hotbeds. The tournament coincided with the Chinese Moon Festival (Mid-Autumn Festival), adding another layer to a special weekend for the city and its growing 3×3 basketball community.

With a dedicated 3×3 Basketball Stadium and an increasingly established connection to the sport, Deqing continues to provide an important stage for the World Tour in China. And just like in 2025, this year’s edition ended with a new winner, a new MVP and another reminder that there are few easy wins on the 2026 circuit.

Antwerp have finally broken through. But with six World Tour stops still remaining before Rio, the biggest lesson from Deqing may be that the 2026 season remains wide open.

The next chapter awaits.

Stay Connected

Follow all the latest action from the FIBA 3×3 World Tour throughout the 2026 season by visiting the official World Tour website, where you can find the latest news, team standings, player statistics and everything you need to follow the Race to the Final. Fans can also keep track of the Event Calendar and the latest FIBA 3×3 Individual and Federation Rankings as teams and players continue their push toward the season finale.

Want to learn more about 3×3 basketball? Explore the official FIBA 3×3 Rules to understand the unique fast-paced format of the game, or discover the FIBA 3×3 Competition Structure to see how the discipline’s global pathway connects grassroots events, professional tours and world-class international competitions.

FIBA

WUHAN, China — The seventh edition of the FIBA 3×3 U23 World Cup delivered another compelling glimpse into the future of 3×3 basketball, with Lithuania defending their men’s crown, the USA reclaiming women’s gold and a host of young stars making their mark in Wuhan.

From dramatic pool-phase finishes to knockout-round comebacks and championship-deciding moments, here are the biggest takeaways from the tournament.

Lithuania building a dynasty

Lithuania entered Wuhan as the defending men’s champions. They leave as back-to-back FIBA 3×3 U23 World Cup winners. After going 4-0 in Pool D, Lithuania navigated a challenging knockout bracket, defeating New Zealand 21-17 in the Quarter-Finals and Serbia 22-15 in the Semi-Finals before edging Latvia 19-18 in a tense Final.

The championship was another chapter in Lithuania’s impressive U23 story, with the team once again finding a way through the biggest moments. Against Serbia, they had to withstand a physical Semi-Final before eventual Men’s MVP Paulius Velutis produced the decisive step-back two-pointer to send Lithuania through. In the Final, Latvia repeatedly threatened to turn the game around and very nearly sent the game into overtime, but Lithuania held their nerve to close out another World Cup title.

The message is clear: Lithuania remain the team to beat at the Men’s U23 level.

USA back on top

The USA women had waited since 2024 to reclaim the U23 World Cup crown. In Wuhan, they did exactly that. The Americans overcame the defending champions Netherlands 21-17 in the Quarter-Finals before defeating Spain 21-16 in the Semi-Finals.

Canada then awaited in the Final, having reached the championship game for the first time in U23 World Cup history. It was a low-scoring battle, with neither team able to pull away for long. Canada led 9-7 at one stage, but the USA regained control and eventually closed out a 15-10 victory. The result delivered the USA’s second Women’s U23 World Cup title, following their triumph in 2024.

Raising the bar

The FIBA 3×3 U23 World Cup is designed to showcase the players who will shape the future of international 3×3 basketball, and Wuhan offered plenty of evidence that the talent pool continues to grow. The tournament featured teams from across Africa, the Americas, Asia, Europe and Oceania, creating a genuinely global test for the next generation.

New Zealand’s Joshua Book summed up the appeal of the competition after his team reached the Quarter-Finals.

“The World Cup, it features teams from Africa, Europe, the Americas, the whole world,” Book said. “It’s the best that the under-23s has to offer.” The depth was evident throughout the week, with pool-phase surprises, close knockout games and several teams pushing established programs to the limit.

MVPs showed out

The tournament’s two MVPs embodied the quality and consistency required to go all the way. Victoria Elizabeth Mckinney played a major role in the USA’s championship campaign before being named Women’s MVP. She finished with 30 total points, 12 drives and a 44.7 total player value, ranked fifth in the tournament. She saved another all-around performance for the Final, contributing six points, six rebounds, eight highlights and three blocks.

On the Men’s side, Paulius Velutis was instrumental in Lithuania’s title defense. Velutis recorded 47 total points, third-most in the tournament, along with 26 highlights, ranked second, and 13 drives, also ranked second. His 60.9 total player value ranked third overall. Most importantly, his biggest moments came when Lithuania needed them most.

Big moments decide everything

If there was another lesson from Wuhan, it was a familiar one in 3×3 basketball: games can turn in an instant.

Australia’s William Mahoney provided one of the clearest examples. After Serbia tied the Men’s third-place game at 20-20 late in regulation, Mahoney scored the decisive basket in overtime to give Australia their first-ever U23 World Cup medal.

Latvia also produced a dramatic comeback against Australia in the Men’s Semi-Finals, overcoming a 19-17 deficit to win 21-18 and reach the Final. And in the women’s tournament, Canada erased a five-point deficit against Australia in the Quarter-Finals before eventually winning 19-16.

These showed that while the margins were tiny, the rewards were enormous.

Memorable Wuhan

The seventh edition of the FIBA 3×3 U23 World Cup ultimately belonged to Lithuania and the USA, but the tournament offered much more than two championship stories.

Canada reached their first Women’s Final. Australia claimed their first Men’s U23 World Cup medal. Spain secured back-to-back Women’s bronze medals. And a new generation of players gained valuable experience on one of 3×3 basketball’s biggest stages.

With the world’s best young players continuing to develop and transition toward the senior level, the FIBA 3×3 U23 World Cup once again provided a glimpse of what is coming next.

For now, Lithuania men and the USA women leave Wuhan as champions. But the future of 3×3 basketball looks brighter than ever.

Stay Connected

Follow all the latest action from the FIBA 3×3 Cups tournaments throughout the 2026 season by visiting the official FIBA 3×3 website, where you can find the latest news, star players and everything you need to know. Fans can also keep track of the Event Calendar and the latest FIBA 3×3 Individual and Federation Rankings as teams and players continue their push toward the season finale.

Want to learn more about 3×3 basketball? Explore the official FIBA 3×3 Rules to understand the unique fast-paced format of the game, or discover the FIBA 3×3 Competition Structure to see how the discipline’s global pathway connects grassroots events, professional tours and world-class international competitions.

FIBA

ANTWERP (Belgium) – Three days of high-level 3×3 basketball in Antwerp produced two familiar champions and a host of memorable milestones. Latvia returned to the top of the European podium for the first time since 2017, while the Netherlands women successfully defended their crown to claim their third Europe Cup title in four editions. Along the way, the tournament showcased the growing depth, competitiveness and unpredictability of European 3×3.

Champions again

It had been nine years since Latvia last lifted the FIBA 3×3 Europe Cup trophy, but the wait is over. The reigning world champions added a second European title to their collection after triumphing at the European Championship arena on Groenplaats in Antwerp, with Kristaps Gluditis emerging as one of the tournament’s defining players along the way.

Gluditis finished with 32 points, including a tournament-best nine two-pointers, before being named Men’s MVP. Latvia’s triumph also adds another major trophy to a remarkable 2026, following their FIBA 3×3 World Cup success earlier in the year. The message from Latvia was clear throughout: the world champions are not satisfied with just one title.

Building a dynasty

Three titles in four editions. Back-to-back championships. The Netherlands women are establishing themselves as the team to beat in European women’s 3×3 basketball. After winning the FIBA 3×3 Europe Cup in 2023 and 2025, the Dutch returned to the top again in Antwerp, with their only interruption coming in 2024 when they finished third.

At the center of it all was Noortje Driessen. The reigning MVP delivered another dominant tournament, leading the competition in both points scored and Player Value with 44 and 50.7 respectively. She also topped the field in highlights, free throws made and drives. Her reward was a second consecutive Europe Cup MVP award and another sign of just how consistently she has performed on the continental stage.

Just getting deeper

If Antwerp proved anything, it is that European 3×3 basketball is becoming increasingly difficult to predict. France men returned to the podium for the first time since 2019, when they finished runners-up. Meanwhile, the Netherlands men recorded their best-ever Europe Cup finish with silver after previously taking bronze in 2016 and 2022.

Estonia men made their first appearance at the Europe Cup, while Sweden women also played in their very first Europe Cup and even recorded a victory, beating Czechia 15-12 in pool play.

Czechia women also made their return to the top eight after missing the 2024 and 2025 editions, while Slovenia women were back at the Europe Cup for the first time since 2016 and reached the Semi-Finals for the first time since 2014. For hosts Belgium, the women’s team also returned to the competition for the first time since 2021.

The bigger picture is clear: more countries are competing, more teams are making breakthroughs and the gap between Europe’s established powers and emerging contenders continues to narrow.

What 3×3 brings to a city

The action on court was only part of the story. More than 7,000 spectators attended the venue across the first two days, while the final day sold out all seats across both sessions. With Groenplaats transformed into a purpose-built 3×3 arena in the heart of Antwerp, the Europe Cup brought elite international basketball directly into the city.

It was a fitting setting for a discipline that continues to thrive on accessibility, atmosphere and bringing the game closer to fans.

Setting the standard

Latvia’s return to European glory and the Netherlands’ continued dominance offered two very different paths to the top of the podium.

For Latvia, it was a long-awaited return to the European crown, nine years after their previous title in 2017 and just months after being crowned world champions.

For the Netherlands women, it was another chapter in a remarkable run of success, with their third Europe Cup title in four editions and a second straight MVP award for Noortje Driessen.

But Antwerp was also about the bigger picture. From first-time appearances and breakthrough victories to returning contenders and new podium finishes, the tournament showcased just how quickly the European 3×3 landscape is evolving.

The Europe Cup may be over, but if Antwerp taught us anything, it is that the level, depth and ambition of European 3×3 basketball continue to rise.

Stay Connected

Follow all the latest action from the FIBA 3×3 Cups tournaments throughout the 2026 season by visiting the official FIBA 3×3 website, where you can find the latest news, star players and everything you need to know. Fans can also keep track of the Event Calendar and the latest FIBA 3×3 Individual and Federation Rankings as teams and players continue their push toward the season finale.

Want to learn more about 3×3 basketball? Explore the official FIBA 3×3 Rules to understand the unique fast-paced format of the game, or discover the FIBA 3×3 Competition Structure to see how the discipline’s global pathway connects grassroots events, professional tours and world-class international competitions.

FIBA

DEBRECEN (Hungary) – The FIBA 3×3 World Tour 2026 just finished its tenth stop, and one team is beginning to separate itself from the pack. Baskets Bonn (GER) made it three World Tour titles in a row in Debrecen, extending their winning streak to 16 games and giving Fabian Giessmann his third MVP award of the season.

Here are the biggest takeaways from Debrecen.

New team to beat

Baskets Bonn’s run is no longer just a hot streak. After winning in WT Amsterdam and WT Lausanne, Bonn completed a remarkable hat-trick in Debrecen, becoming the first team to win three FIBA 3×3 World Tour stops in 2026.

Their latest triumph also extended their World Tour winning streak to 16 games, including their Qualifying Draw wins. That consistency has put Bonn alone at the top of the 2026 stop-winners list, with Liman (SRB) and Ub (SRB) each having won twice, while Miami (USA), Hangzhou Jingwei (CHN) and Amsterdam RABOBANK (NED) have one WT stop win apiece.

With seven stops still to come before the FIBA 3×3 World Tour Final in Rio de Janeiro on December 12-13, Bonn have given the rest of the circuit plenty to chase.

Building an MVP collection

Three Bonn titles have brought three MVP trophies for German unicorn Fabian Giessmann. After being named MVP in Amsterdam and Lausanne, Giessmann collected the award again in Debrecen as Bonn continued their extraordinary run.

His latest performance was another all-around display. Giessmann finished the tournament with 45 points, 18 rebounds, 10 two-pointers, eight free throws and four dunks, while registering two double-fives.

The numbers, though, tell only part of the story. Giessmann has consistently delivered in the biggest moments for Bonn, including hitting the title-clinching two-pointer over no less that Worthy de Jong in the WT Debrecen Final.

Race remains wide open

While Bonn have created some separation at the top, the battle for the remaining World Tour titles is far from settled. Past winn ers Liman, Ub, Miami, Hangzhou Jingwei and Amsterdam RABOBANK remain capable contenders. Other teams like Antwerp, Ulaanbaatar MMC Energy and Raudondvaris Hoptrans have also gotten so close. With seven stops remaining before Rio, there is still plenty of time for the pecking order to change.

Debrecen pushes 3×3 forward

The action in Debrecen extended well beyond the court. The Hungarian city marked 12 consecutive years of hosting 3×3 basketball events, dating back to the FIBA 3×3 U18 World Championships in 2015, while welcoming its 11th consecutive World Tour stop in 2026.

The event also featured the first live 3D broadcast of a 3×3 basketball event, offering fans around the world an immersive new way to experience the atmosphere from Kossuth Square.

It was another reminder that Debrecen’s place on the 3×3 basketball calendar is about more than longevity. The city’s hosting continues to evolve alongside the sport.

Setting the benchmark

With Debrecen now in the books, the FIBA 3×3 World Tour 2026 moves into deeper into its second half stretch. With seven stops remaining before the World Tour Rio de Janeiro Final, contenders have plenty of opportunities to close the gap on Bonn.

For now, however, the message from Debrecen is clear: Baskets Bonn have reset the standard.

Three titles. Sixteen straight wins. Three MVP awards for Giessmann.

The question now is simple: who can stop them?

Stay Connected

Follow all the latest action from the FIBA 3×3 World Tour throughout the 2026 season by visiting the official World Tour website, where you can find the latest news, team standings, player statistics and everything you need to follow the Race to the Final. Fans can also keep track of the Event Calendar and the latest FIBA 3×3 Individual and Federation Rankings as teams and players continue their push toward the season finale.

Want to learn more about 3×3 basketball? Explore the official FIBA 3×3 Rules to understand the unique fast-paced format of the game, or discover the FIBA 3×3 Competition Structure to see how the discipline’s global pathway connects grassroots events, professional tours and world-class international competitions.

FIBA

LAUSANNE (Switzerland) – The FIBA 3×3 World Tour 2026 returned from its five-week mid-season break with another dose of drama in iconic Lausanne, where Baskets Bonn (GER) claimed their second World Tour title of the season and Fabian Giessmann collected another MVP award.

The ninth WT stop of the FIBA 3×3 2026 Pro Circuit delivered plenty of clues for what promises to be a fascinating run to the World Tour Final in December. From Bonn’s continued rise to Liman’s unprecedented early exit, here’s what we learned in Lausanne.

Baskets Bonn are a serious force

The early-season surprise is starting to look less like a surprise. Baskets Bonn followed up their breakthrough triumph at WT Amsterdam 2026 by winning again in Lausanne, making them one of only three teams to have captured multiple FIBA 3×3 World Tour stops this season alongside Liman (SRB) and Ub (SRB).

The German side were particularly impressive in Lausanne, going unbeaten through pool play before navigating the knockout rounds and defeating Bordeaux (FRA) in the Final.

This is no longer simply a young team capable of making noise. Baskets Bonn have now proven they can consistently win at the highest level of the Pro Circuit.

And with eight World Tour stops still to come before the Final in Rio de Janeiro, they have every reason to believe there is more proverbial silverware ahead.

Giessmann as World Tour superstar

If Lausanne confirmed anything, it is that Fabian Giessmann is rapidly becoming one of the biggest stars on the circuit.

The Baskets Bonn standout was named MVP for the second time this season after another sensational tournament, following his MVP performance during the team’s Amsterdam title run. As such, this kid can no longer be considered a rising star — he has already proven he’s among the elite of the elite.

In Lausanne, Giessmann finished with a tournament-best 51 points and 59.2 player value, while also leading the field with 15 dunks and ranking third with 20 highlights.

One of his most memorable moments came on Day 1, when he scored the final three points to seal a dramatic 21-19 victory over Ulaanbaatar MMC Energy (MGL). He then added 12 points against Utrecht (NED) as Bonn swept Pool D.

Two World Tour titles. Two MVP awards. At just 22 years old, Giessmann is already one of the players to watch for the remainder of the season.

Liman hit a roadblock

The No. 1 seed entered Lausanne with plenty of momentum, but their tournament ended before the knockout phase even began. Liman suffered back-to-back pool defeats against Cibona Ph.Classic (CRO) and Valencia Basket (ESP), making an early exit in one of the biggest shocks of the season.

More significantly, it was the first time in 2026 that Liman failed to advance to the Quarter-Finals at either a World Tour or Challenger stop. That is a remarkable run of consistency coming to an end.

Of course, Liman have already won two World Tour stops this season and remain firmly among the leading contenders. One difficult weekend should not erase what has been an excellent campaign. Still, Lausanne served as a reminder that even the most reliable teams can be vulnerable in the increasingly deep 3×3 basketball field.

Six different World Tour winners

Parity has become one of the defining characteristics of the 2026 season. Through the first nine World Tour stops, six different teams have captured titles: Liman, Ub, Baskets Bonn, Miami (USA), Hangzhou Jingwei (CHN) and Amsterdam RABOBANK (NED).

Three of those teams — Liman, Ub and Baskets Bonn — have won twice, but nobody has been able to completely dominate the circuit. That leaves plenty of room for another team to break through.

Skyliners (GER), Shanghai (CHN), Ulaanbaatar MMC Energy, Antwerp (BEL), DeQing (CHN) and Raudondvaris Hoptrans (LTU) are among the established names still searching for their first FIBA 3×3 World Tour title of the year. With the field becoming deeper and the margins increasingly smaller, the second half of the season could produce even more new champions.

Wide open second half

Lausanne was more than just another FIBA 3×3 World Tour stop. It marked the beginning of the second half of the 2026 season after a five-week mid-season break.

With nine stops now complete, there are eight World Tour stops remaining before the Pro Circuit culminates at the FIBA 3×3 World Tour Final 2026 in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, on December 12-13.

That leaves plenty of time for the current contenders to build momentum, for established teams to recover from setbacks and for new challengers to make their move.

Baskets Bonn have made their statement. Liman have shown they can be beaten. And the list of champions and contenders suggests there is no clear runaway favorite.

The second half of the World Tour is wide open, and that might be the most exciting thing we learned in Lausanne.

Stay Connected

Follow all the latest action from the FIBA 3×3 World Tour throughout the 2026 season by visiting the official World Tour website, where you can find the latest news, team standings, player statistics and everything you need to follow the Race to the Final. Fans can also keep track of the Event Calendar and the latest FIBA 3×3 Individual and Federation Rankings as teams and players continue their push toward the season finale.

Want to learn more about 3×3 basketball? Explore the official FIBA 3×3 Rules to understand the unique fast-paced format of the game, or discover the FIBA 3×3 Competition Structure to see how the discipline’s global pathway connects grassroots events, professional tours and world-class international competitions.

FIBA

CHENGDU (China) – The second stop of the 2026 FIBA 3×3 World Tour delivered dominance, drama and defining performances as Ub (SRB) returned to the top in Chengdu.

Here’s what we learned from an action-packed weekend.

Back where they belong

After falling short in Utsunomiya last weekend, Ub responded like true champions in Chengdu.

They went unbeaten when it mattered most and showed their trademark composure in clutch situations, edging rivals Liman (SRB) in a thrilling Final to secure their first FIBA 3×3 World Tour win of the 2026 Pro Circuit.

When Ub are locked in, they really remain the benchmark.

Kaluderovic’s star shines

Filip Kaluderovic didn’t just win MVP. He announced himself.

From a dominant Semi-Finals performance to clutch buckets in the Final, he proved he could deliver on the big stage. The newest member of Ub displayed scoring consistency and confidence, giving this already strong squad a new dimension.

Ub have long been a powerhouse, of course, but with Kaluderovic stepping up, they certainly look even more dangerous.

Liman are still elite

Fresh off their Utsunomiya win, Liman carried their momentum into Chengdu and once again reached the Final.

They showed resilience, surviving a Quarter-Finals thriller against DeQing (CHN) and controlling their Semi-Finals game against familiar foe Skyliners (GER). Ultimately, however, Liman fell just short against Ub.

Still, this is a squad that is clearly not going anywhere.

Ulaanbaatar continue to rise

Ulaanbaatar MMC Energy (MGL) showed they belong among the elite.

Their comeback win over Antwerp (BEL) and strong showing against Ub in the Semi-Finals highlighted their growth and belief.

With Olympic gold medalist Nauris Miezis now orchestrating play and hitting long toms, this team is no longer just a dark horse. They are a very real threat.

Skyliners prove they’re for real

After their breakout in Utsunomiya, Skyliners backed it up in Chengdu.

Even while rising star Leon Fertig continues his recovery, Skyliners impressed at tha Jiaozi Music Square. They edged Miami (USA) in a Quarter-Finals thriller and reached the Semi-Finals, showing that their quality cannot be overlooked.

With players like Stefan Kojic and Niklas Kropp stepping up, Skyliners are quickly becoming one of the most dangerous teams on tour.

Depth keeps growing

From DeQing pushing Liman to overtime to Shinagawa (JPN) and Bordeaux (FRA) showing flashes, the overall level of competition continues to rise.

There are just no easy games on the FIBA 3×3 World Tour, and that’s exactly what makes it so exciting.

2026 is wide open

Two stops in, and we already have multiple contenders making strong statements.

Ub are back on top, Liman remain consistent, and several emerging teams are closing the gap.

If Chengdu is any indication, the FIBA 3×3 World Tour 2026 is shaping up to be one of the most competitive yet.

FIBA