MIES (Switzerland) – The FIBA 3×3 World Tour Utsunomiya Opener 2026, held on April 25–26 in Utsunomiya, Japan, incorporated a range of sustainability initiatives to reduce the event’s environmental impact, reinforcing the shared commitment of FIBA 3×3 and the Utsunomiya Local Organizing Committee (LOC) to responsible event delivery.

Supported by Utsunomiya Light Power Co., Ltd. as the tournament’s Zero Carbon Action Partner, the event introduced measures designed to reduce its environmental footprint and support more sustainable event management. Among the initiatives implemented was the use of recycled materials, including biomass-based materials, for banners, information boards and other signage installed throughout the competition venue and across the city.

The event also implemented a carbon offset programme to compensate for greenhouse gas emissions generated through tournament operations. The programme covered emissions associated with participating teams’ and players’ travel, as well as electricity consumption at the venue, including power generators. Carbon offsetting enables emissions to be balanced through the purchase of verified carbon credits that support verified emission reduction or carbon removal projects elsewhere.

As part of these efforts, the tournament offset 16 tonnes of CO₂ emissions, retired one carbon credit, and utilized 70 pieces of venue signage produced using recycled or biomass-based materials. While these initiatives represent an early step in the event’s sustainability journey, they reflect the Utsunomiya LOC’s commitment to continuously strengthening environmentally responsible event operations in future editions.

FIBA 3×3 Managing Director Alex Sanchez said:

“Sustainability is becoming an increasingly important part of how we deliver FIBA 3×3 events around the world. Together with our Local Organizing Committees and partners, we are committed to continuously improving our event operations while creating a positive impact for host communities. The initiatives implemented in Utsunomiya demonstrate how collaboration can help us advance these objectives.”

The initiatives implemented in Utsunomiya build on FIBA 3×3’s broader commitment to integrating sustainability across its events and activities. Recent examples include sustainability initiatives introduced during the FIBA 3×3 Asia Cup 2025 in Singapore, environmental responsibility programmes implemented at the FIBA 3×3 World Tour Abu Dhabi 2025, and the work of Spanish international Carlos Martínez, whose efforts to help protect the world’s oceans highlight how members of the global 3×3 community are contributing to environmental awareness both on and off the court.

Commenting on the initiative, Mr. Aoki Katsuyuki, Vice Mayor of Utsunomiya, said:

“Our city has set forth the vision of becoming a ‘Super Smart City’ –  a city where people of all generations, from children to senior citizens, can live safely, conveniently, and with a high quality of life while realizing their dreams and aspirations. To achieve this vision, we are advancing the development of three key pillars of society: an inclusive community, a regional circular economy, and a decarbonized society.

We believe that hosting the FIBA 3×3 World Tour, a globally recognized sustainable sporting event, will help raise environmental awareness among our citizens and local businesses, deepen understanding of sustainable urban development, and ultimately contribute to realizing the decarbonized society that our city aspires to achieve.”

The sustainability initiatives in Utsunomiya 2026 form part of the continued collaboration between FIBA 3×3, LOCs and partners to integrate responsible environmental practices into the delivery of international 3×3 basketball events while supporting broader sustainability objectives across the global 3×3 basketball ecosystem.

The WT Utsunomiya Opener marked the opening stop of the FIBA 3×3 World Tour 2026 season. Held for the ninth time in the city and the fifth time as the season opener, the tournament once again highlighted Utsunomiya’s role as one of the leading destinations for 3×3 basketball. Located in Tochigi Prefecture, just north of Tokyo, Utsunomiya has established a strong reputation for hosting international 3×3 basketball events through consistent event delivery and strong local support. The 2026 edition concluded with Liman (SRB) claiming the tournament title.

FIBA remains committed to working alongside host cities, LOCs, partners and the wider 3×3 basketball community to advance responsible event operations while continuing to grow the sport around the world.

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About FIBA 3×3

3×3 basketball is FIBA’s official urban discipline and one of the fastest-growing Olympic sports. It is the most thrilling urban sport in the world. Played on a half-court with a 12-second shot clock, 3×3 basketball is a 10-minute sprint where the first team to 21 wins. The sport’s competition structure includes the FIBA 3×3 World Tour, the FIBA 3×3 Women’s Series, and the FIBA 3×3 World Cup and continental Zone Cups and a Champions Cup. The discipline made its Olympic debut at Tokyo 2020 and returns at Paris 2024 and LA 2028.

FIBA 3×3 World Tour

The FIBA 3×3 World Tour is the elite professional men’s circuit of the discipline. Teams representing world renowned cities, and professional clubs, compete across a global season hosted in the center of major urban environments, earning ranking points and prize money while building toward the FIBA 3×3 World Tour Final. It is the highest level of professional 3×3 competition.

FIBA

MIES (Switzerland) – The FIBA 3×3 World Tour Utsunomiya Opener 2026, held on April 25–26 in Utsunomiya, Japan, incorporated a range of sustainability initiatives to reduce the event’s environmental impact, reinforcing the shared commitment of FIBA 3×3 and the Utsunomiya Local Organizing Committee (LOC) to responsible event delivery.

Supported by Utsunomiya Light Power Co., Ltd. as the tournament’s Zero Carbon Action Partner, the event introduced measures designed to reduce its environmental footprint and support more sustainable event management. Among the initiatives implemented was the use of recycled materials, including biomass-based materials, for banners, information boards and other signage installed throughout the competition venue and across the city.

The event also implemented a carbon offset programme to compensate for greenhouse gas emissions generated through tournament operations. The programme covered emissions associated with participating teams’ and players’ travel, as well as electricity consumption at the venue, including power generators. Carbon offsetting enables emissions to be balanced through the purchase of verified carbon credits that support verified emission reduction or carbon removal projects elsewhere.

As part of these efforts, the tournament offset 16 tonnes of CO₂ emissions, retired one carbon credit, and utilized 70 pieces of venue signage produced using recycled or biomass-based materials. While these initiatives represent an early step in the event’s sustainability journey, they reflect the Utsunomiya LOC’s commitment to continuously strengthening environmentally responsible event operations in future editions.

FIBA 3×3 Managing Director Alex Sanchez said:

“Sustainability is becoming an increasingly important part of how we deliver FIBA 3×3 events around the world. Together with our Local Organizing Committees and partners, we are committed to continuously improving our event operations while creating a positive impact for host communities. The initiatives implemented in Utsunomiya demonstrate how collaboration can help us advance these objectives.”

The initiatives implemented in Utsunomiya build on FIBA 3×3’s broader commitment to integrating sustainability across its events and activities. Recent examples include sustainability initiatives introduced during the FIBA 3×3 Asia Cup 2025 in Singapore, environmental responsibility programmes implemented at the FIBA 3×3 World Tour Abu Dhabi 2025, and the work of Spanish international Carlos Martínez, whose efforts to help protect the world’s oceans highlight how members of the global 3×3 community are contributing to environmental awareness both on and off the court.

Commenting on the initiative, Mr. Aoki Katsuyuki, Vice Mayor of Utsunomiya, said:

“Our city has set forth the vision of becoming a ‘Super Smart City’ –  a city where people of all generations, from children to senior citizens, can live safely, conveniently, and with a high quality of life while realizing their dreams and aspirations. To achieve this vision, we are advancing the development of three key pillars of society: an inclusive community, a regional circular economy, and a decarbonized society.

We believe that hosting the FIBA 3×3 World Tour, a globally recognized sustainable sporting event, will help raise environmental awareness among our citizens and local businesses, deepen understanding of sustainable urban development, and ultimately contribute to realizing the decarbonized society that our city aspires to achieve.”

The sustainability initiatives in Utsunomiya 2026 form part of the continued collaboration between FIBA 3×3, LOCs and partners to integrate responsible environmental practices into the delivery of international 3×3 basketball events while supporting broader sustainability objectives across the global 3×3 basketball ecosystem.

The WT Utsunomiya Opener marked the opening stop of the FIBA 3×3 World Tour 2026 season. Held for the ninth time in the city and the fifth time as the season opener, the tournament once again highlighted Utsunomiya’s role as one of the leading destinations for 3×3 basketball. Located in Tochigi Prefecture, just north of Tokyo, Utsunomiya has established a strong reputation for hosting international 3×3 basketball events through consistent event delivery and strong local support. The 2026 edition concluded with Liman (SRB) claiming the tournament title.

FIBA remains committed to working alongside host cities, LOCs, partners and the wider 3×3 basketball community to advance responsible event operations while continuing to grow the sport around the world.

###

About FIBA 3×3

3×3 basketball is FIBA’s official urban discipline and one of the fastest-growing Olympic sports. It is the most thrilling urban sport in the world. Played on a half-court with a 12-second shot clock, 3×3 basketball is a 10-minute sprint where the first team to 21 wins. The sport’s competition structure includes the FIBA 3×3 World Tour, the FIBA 3×3 Women’s Series, and the FIBA 3×3 World Cup and continental Zone Cups and a Champions Cup. The discipline made its Olympic debut at Tokyo 2020 and returns at Paris 2024 and LA 2028.

FIBA 3×3 World Tour

The FIBA 3×3 World Tour is the elite professional men’s circuit of the discipline. Teams representing world renowned cities, and professional clubs, compete across a global season hosted in the center of major urban environments, earning ranking points and prize money while building toward the FIBA 3×3 World Tour Final. It is the highest level of professional 3×3 competition.

FIBA

UTSUNOMIYA (Japan) – The wait won’t be long for fans of the FIBA 3×3 World Tour, as the 2026 season will tip off in Utsunomiya, Japan, on 25 and 26 April 2026.

Utsunomiya has become synonymous with 3×3 basketball excellence, hosting some of the biggest and most memorable events in the discipline’s history. Once again, the city will provide the perfect stage to launch a new season, as the world’s best teams battle at the iconic Futaarayama Jinja Shrine. This marks the fifth consecutive year that Utsunomiya has hosted the World Tour Opener. Previously, the city also hosted four World Tour events between 2016 and 2019, including the 2019 Final.

A Tradition of Big Openers

The Utsunomiya Opener has earned its place as one of the most anticipated stops on the FIBA 3×3 World Tour calendar. With its electric atmosphere, iconic venue and world-class competition, the event has become the perfect stage to tip off a new season. Fans know to expect drama, energy and unforgettable moments under the lights at the Futaarayama Shrine.

Recent years have brought memorable champions to Utsunomiya. Miami dominated the past two editions, lifting the trophy in both 2024 and 2025, while Ub Huishan NE captured back-to-back titles in 2022 and 2023. Each victory has added to the city’s legacy as a proving ground for the world’s best 3×3 basketball teams.

With that history as a backdrop, the 2026 edition is set to raise the stakes even higher. Teams will look to make an early statement in their chase for World Tour glory, and Utsunomiya’s stage promises to once again set the tone for another thrilling season.

3×3 basketball in the Spotlight

As 3×3 basketball continues to grow on the global stage, fans can expect high-flying plays, buzzer-beaters, and unforgettable moments that capture the unique spirit of the game.

It is a tremendous honour to host the Opener in Utsunomiya City once again in 2026. Throughout the event period, the city will be buzzing with excitement. Alongside the main tournament featuring the world’s top players, we will host children’s competitions. Furthermore, restaurants throughout the city, including gyoza dumpling shops, will offer special tournament menus. Experience booths showcasing Japanese culture will also be available. We do hope you enjoy the full experience of our “3×3 City” – Mr. Eiichi Sato, Utsunomiya’s Mayor said.

Stay tuned for more details as we get closer to the event that marks the official start of another action-packed FIBA 3×3 World Tour season.

FIBA

UTSUNOMIYA (Japan) – The official seeding has been confirmed for the FIBA 3×3 World Tour Utsunomiya Opener 2026, taking place on April 25-26.

A total of 14 teams will compete in one of 3×3 basketball’s most established stops, with a mix of FIBA 3×3 World Tour contenders, rising teams and local challengers aiming to start the season strong.

Ub lead the chase

Powerhouse Ub SRB enter as the No. 1 seed and will again be the team to beat, led by Nenad Nerandžić, one of the most reliable performers on the circuit.

They are followed by Miami USA at No. 2, with Henry Caruso anchoring a team that returns to Utsunomiya after opening last year’s season with a title run here.

Paris 2024 champions Amsterdam RABOBANK NED are seeded third, with Worthy de Jong bringing experience and playmaking to the half-court, while another Serbian side, Liman SRB, complete the top four behind the shot-making of Andreja Milutinovic.

Deep field across continents

The middle seeds feature a balanced mix of established contenders and emerging teams.

Raudondvaris Hoptrans LTU come in at No. 5, headlined by the inside presence of Aurelijus Pukelis, while Shanghai CHN at No. 6 rely on the scoring ability of Cameron Forte.

Germany’s Skyliners GER are seeded seventh following their breakthrough 2025 campaign, with Leon Fertig continuing to play a key role, while Toulouse FRA are positioned at No. 8.

Rounding out the top 10 are Antwerp BEL, which just won the FIBA 3×3 Shibuya Challenger, and Vienna AUT, with Antwerp featuring Jonas Foerts as they look to make an early-season impact.

Hosts and challengers ready

The remaining seeds include a mix of regional qualifiers and host teams aiming to test themselves against elite opposition.

Taipei WanBao TPE are seeded 11th, while Japan will be represented by home sides Shinagawa JPN, Hiratsuka JPN and Utsunomiya JPN, giving local fans multiple teams to support.

With depth across all 14 teams, every qualifying draw and pool game will be critical as teams compete for places in the knockout rounds.

Season starts in 3×3 basketball stronghold

Held in one of the discipline’s most established host cities, the FIBA 3×3 WT Utsunomiya Opener traditionally sets the tone for the FIBA 3×3 World Tour season.

With top seeds, proven contenders and local teams all in action, the FIBA 3×3 World Tour Utsunomiya Opener 2026 is set to deliver a competitive start to the campaign.

Full seeding list

1. Ub SRB
2. Miami USA
3. Amsterdam RABOBANK NED
4. Liman SRB
5. Raudondvaris Hoptrans LTU
6. Shanghai CHN
7. Skyliners GER
8. Toulouse FRA
9. Antwerp BEL
10. Vienna AUT
11. Taipei WanBao TPE
12. Shinagawa JPN
13. Hiratsuka JPN
14. Utsunomiya JPN

FIBA

UTSUNOMIYA (Japan) – Andreja Milutinovic of Liman (SRB) delivered a standout performance at the FIBA 3×3 World Tour Utsunomiya Opener 2026, earning Most Valuable Player honors after leading his team to the first title of the season.

Milutinovic was the driving force behind Liman’s run in Utsunomiya, setting the tone with consistent scoring and shot-making throughout the tournament.

He played a decisive role in the knockout rounds, including an 11-point performance in Liman’s quarter-final win over defending champions Miami (USA), before guiding his team to a composed 21-15 victory over Skyliners (GER) in the Final.

When the momentum shifted, Milutinovic responded. His scoring bursts helped Liman build separation in key moments, while his activity around the basket sealed the title in the closing stages of the Final.

Across the tournament, Milutinovic recorded 33 total points and ranked second overall in player value (42.8), underlining his impact on both ends of the court.

His performances earned him the MVP award, capping a strong start to the 2026 FIBA 3×3 World Tour season.

FIBA