SAN SALVADOR (El Salvador) – Three silver medals in four editions tell the story of Puerto Rico’s consistency at the FIBA 3×3 AmeriCup. But as the 2026 tournament approaches, the message is clear: it’s time to once again turn those near-misses into gold.

Puerto Rico have finished runners-up in 2022, 2024 and 2025, with their breakthrough title coming in 2023. Now, after falling just short in each of the last two editions, they return to San Salvador determined to reclaim the title.

Three players from last year’s squad are back for another run: Luis Cuascut, Leandro Allende and Michael Wesley. Among them, Cuascut and Allende bring the most experience and will be expected to lead the way as Puerto Rico chase another deep tournament run.

Cuascut, a familiar face on the FIBA 3×3 Pro Circuit, has been a central figure in Puerto Rico’s recent AmeriCup campaigns. His experience and leadership will be crucial, while Allende’s energy and physicality should help provide continuity in a squad looking to turn past disappointment into motivation.

The challenge is straightforward, but far from easy. Puerto Rico have already shown they can reach the FIBA 3×3 AmeriCup Final. Now, they must find a way to win it. With returning players who know what it takes to compete for the title, they have another opportunity to prove that their recent silver-medal finishes are a platform for something greater.

Can Puerto Rico get back on top and add a second AmeriCup gold to their collection? The mission in San Salvador is clear: finish the job.

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

SANTA TECLA (El Salvador) – The FIBA 3×3 AmeriCup 2026 is almost here, and the women’s competition promises another intense battle for continental supremacy from October 28 to November 1.

The United States return as defending champions, but Canada will be eager to reclaim the crown after falling to their North American rivals in last year’s Final. Meanwhile, established continental stars, experienced FIBA 3×3 Women’s Series campaigners and emerging talents will all be looking to make their mark in Santa Tecla.

From the AmeriCup’s all-time leading scorer to a former WNBA standout making her debut in the competition, here are eight women to watch.

Paige Crozon (Canada)

Few players have left a bigger mark on the FIBA 3×3 AmeriCup than Paige Crozon. The Canadian is the competition’s all-time leading scorer in women’s history with 153 points and one of the most decorated players in the discipline, having competed at every edition of the AmeriCup to date, four FIBA 3×3 World Cups and the Paris 2024 Olympic Games.

Crozon has also been a key figure for Canada on the FIBA 3×3 Women’s Series this season, helping her country capture titles in Shanghai and Takasaki. With Canada looking to reclaim the AmeriCup crown after losing to the United States in 2025, Crozon’s experience and scoring ability will be crucial to her team’s ambitions.

Aerial Powers (United States)

The United States will look to defend their title and secure a fourth women’s AmeriCup gold, with Aerial Powers adding another intriguing storyline to their campaign. The former WNBA player is set to make her AmeriCup debut after gaining experience with the national team on the FIBA 3×3 Women’s Series.

Powers has featured at three Women’s Series stops with the United States this season, with their best result a third-place finish in Bordeaux. Her arrival brings another scoring threat to the defending champions as they aim to maintain their position at the top of the continental game.

Ashley Yadrielys Torres Negron (Puerto Rico)

Ashley Torres has been a constant presence in Puerto Rico’s AmeriCup campaigns, having played in every edition since the competition began in 2021. She ranks fourth on the all-time women’s scoring list, underlining her consistency and importance to the national team.

Puerto Rico’s best result in the competition was a fourth-place finish in 2024. With another AmeriCup ahead, Torres will be looking to help her country take the next step and finally secure a medal. Her experience across five previous editions will be an important asset as Puerto Rico pursues a breakthrough run in El Salvador.

Fernanda Ovalle (Chile)

At just 23 years old, Fernanda Ovalle has already established herself among the most productive scorers in AmeriCup women’s history, ranking 10th on the all-time list. The Chilean returns for her third appearance in the competition after previously playing in 2023 and 2024, having missed the 2025 edition.

Ovalle has also gained valuable experience on the FIBA 3×3 Women’s Series this season, representing Chile at several stops. The team’s best results came in Sumgait and Baku, where Chile finished seventh. Back on the AmeriCup stage, Ovalle will look to build on her previous experience and help Chile contend for a medal.

Gabriela Guimarães (Brazil)

Gabriela Guimarães has made a habit of finishing with an AmeriCup medal. The Brazilian earned bronze in both of her previous appearances, in 2024 and 2025, and will now look to help Brazil extend that run in Santa Tecla.

Guimarães also brings considerable international experience, having represented Brazil at three FIBA 3×3 World Cups in 2022, 2025 and 2026. She has featured at two Women’s Series stops this season and ranks eighth on the AmeriCup’s all-time women’s scoring list. With her experience on both the continental and global stages, Guimarães will be one to watch as Brazil pursues another medal.

Paola Ferrari (Paraguay)

Paola Ferrari will be looking to build on Paraguay’s encouraging fifth-place finish at the FIBA 3×3 AmeriCup 2025. The experienced Paraguayan has also been busy on the FIBA 3×3 Women’s Series this season, appearing at five stops with her national team.

Paraguay’s best result came in WS Xiantao, where the team finished sixth. That international exposure should provide valuable preparation for another demanding continental campaign. Ferrari will be looking to translate that experience into another strong showing as Paraguay aims to challenge the established contenders.

Mariana Janeth Rodriguez García (Mexico)

Mariana Janeth Rodriguez García returns to the AmeriCup after representing Mexico at the 2025 edition, when the team finished sixth. A veteran of 3×3 basketball tournaments in Mexico, she brings familiarity with the discipline and experience competing in her country’s domestic scene.

Mexico will look to build on that top-six finish and challenge for a place in the latter stages of the competition. For Rodriguez García, the AmeriCup offers another opportunity to showcase her experience on the international stage and help Mexican 3×3 basketball take another step forward.

With a record-setting scorer, a defending champion looking to repeat, and several experienced campaigners chasing a breakthrough, the women’s competition is set for an exciting battle. The FIBA 3×3 AmeriCup 2026 promises plenty of storylines as the continent’s best teams take to the halfcourt in El Salvador.

Camila Rocio Peri (Argentina)

Camila Rocio Peri is set for her fourth AmeriCup appearance, having previously represented Argentina in 2022, 2024 and 2025. A veteran of the national team, Peri brings valuable experience to a squad looking to improve on last year’s Quarter-Finals finish.

Peri also remains active in Argentina’s domestic 3×3 basketball scene, keeping her connected to the country’s competitive landscape. With the AmeriCup providing another opportunity to measure themselves against the continent’s best, Argentina will look to Peri’s experience as it aims to make a deeper run in the tournament.

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

SANTA TECLA (El Salvador) – The FIBA 3×3 AmeriCup 2026 is almost here, bringing together the best national teams in the Americas for a battle for continental supremacy from October 28 to November 1.

The men’s competition promises plenty of storylines, from Jimmer Fredette’s return to the halfcourt with the United States to Adris De Leon’s long-awaited debut for the Dominican Republic. Meanwhile, Puerto Rico will look to build on consecutive silver-medal finishes, while Brazil, Canada, Chile and Argentina will be eager to make their mark.

Here are several players to keep an eye on at at the Plaza Merliot in Santa Tecla.

Adris De Leon (Dominican Republic)

Few players bring as much professional 3×3 basketball experience to the Dominican Republic as Adris De Leon. A veteran of the FIBA 3×3 World Tour and Pro Circuit, De Leon has made a name for himself with his scoring ability, particularly his deadly long-range and mid-range shooting.

He led Lugano to the FIBA 3×3 World Tour Macau 2025 title and recently helped Lausanne finish fourth at the Go Too! Group Aichi Challenger 2026. Now, he is set to represent the Dominican Republic on the halfcourt for the first time, giving the national team a proven scorer with plenty of experience against the world’s best.

Leo Branquinho (Brazil)

Leo Branquinho remains one of the faces of Brazilian 3×3 basketball, and the FIBA 3×3 AmeriCup has become a familiar stage for the veteran. The 2026 edition will mark his sixth appearance in the competition, having previously played in 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024 and 2025.

Branquinho also represented Brazil at the FIBA 3×3 World Cup 2026, where the team finished 13th. On the professional circuit, he plays for Taipei Wanbao (TPE) and has already featured at three World Tour stops this season: Utsunomiya, Deqing and Bucharest. His experience at both the national team and professional levels will be valuable as Brazil look to contend for the title.

Luis Cuascut (Puerto Rico)

Luis Cuascut is one of the defining figures of Puerto Rican 3×3 basketball, having helped his country establish itself among the leading contenders in the Americas. He returns for his third AmeriCup appearance after playing in 2024 and 2025, when Puerto Rico captured silver on both occasions.

The San Juan player also represented Puerto Rico at the FIBA 3×3 World Cup 2026, where the team finished 16th. With another AmeriCup campaign ahead, Cuascut will be central to Puerto Rico’s hopes of turning another deep run into a gold-medal finish.

Jimmer Fredette (United States)

One of the biggest names ever to take to the halfcourt, Jimmer Fredette is back in action after coming out of retirement. The sharpshooter has returned to the professional circuit with Miami and will now suit up for the United States at the FIBA 3×3 AmeriCup 2026.

Fredette is no stranger to the competition, having helped the United States win the title in 2022. His shooting range and ability to score in bunches make him a compelling player to watch, particularly in a format where games can turn in a matter of possessions. His return adds another major storyline to an already intriguing men’s field.

Jerome Desrosiers (Canada)

Jerome Desrosiers brings considerable experience to Canada’s campaign. The seasoned forward is set for his third AmeriCup appearance after competing in 2024 and 2025, and he also represented Canada at the FIBA 3×3 World Cup 2025, where the team finished 13th.

A veteran of the FIBA 3×3 Pro Circuit and World Tour, Desrosiers has also tasted success at the highest level of the professional game. He led London to a World Tour stop victory in Deqing in 2025, underlining his ability to deliver against elite opposition. Canada will look to draw on that experience as it pursues a strong run in El Salvador.

Junior Saintel (Haiti)

Junior Saintel gives Haiti an explosive presence on the halfcourt. Having previously represented his country at the FIBA 3×3 AmeriCup in 2022, Saintel returns to a competition where his athleticism and finishing ability can make a difference.

Known for his hops and power around the basket, Saintel can bring energy to a Haitian squad looking to make a splash. In a fast-paced format that rewards players who can finish through contact and capitalize on open lanes, his ability to attack the rim will be an important weapon for Haiti.

Juan José Aguayo Ferrada (Chile)

Juan José Aguayo Ferrada is looking to help Chile build on a fifth-place finish at the FIBA 3×3 AmeriCup 2025. He has also represented his country at the FIBA 3×3 U23 World Cup 2024, where Chile finished 20th.

Aguayo Ferrada plays for Santiago on the Pro Circuit, gaining valuable experience against international opposition. Santiago recently finished 14th at the Phoenix Challenger 2026 and is scheduled to compete at the World Tour stops in Manama and Hong Kong. That exposure to the professional circuit should serve him well as he returns to the national team stage.

Alejo Maggi (Argentina)

Alejo Maggi is another player looking to make an impact after gaining valuable international experience over the past year. He featured for Argentina at the FIBA 3×3 AmeriCup 2025, where the team finished seventh, and he also represented his country at the FIBA 3×3 U23 World Cup 2025.

Maggi averaged 5.8 points per game at the U23 World Cup, demonstrating his ability to contribute offensively on the international stage. With another opportunity to represent Argentina at a major continental competition, he will look to build on that experience and help his team make a deeper run.

With experienced FIBA 3×3 World Tour campaigners, established national-team leaders and a returning 3×3 star all in the mix, the men’s competition promises plenty of intrigue. The battle for continental supremacy begins in Santa Tecla as the FIBA 3×3 AmeriCup 2026 tips off.

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

SANTA TECLA (El Salvador) – The FIBA 3×3 AmeriCup 2026 is almost here, bringing together the best national teams in the Americas for a battle for continental supremacy from October 28 to November 1.

The men’s competition promises plenty of storylines, from Jimmer Fredette’s return to the halfcourt with the United States to Adris De Leon’s long-awaited debut for the Dominican Republic. Meanwhile, Puerto Rico will look to build on consecutive silver-medal finishes, while Brazil, Canada, Chile and Argentina will be eager to make their mark.

Here are several players to keep an eye on at at the Plaza Merliot in Santa Tecla.

Adris De Leon (Dominican Republic)

Few players bring as much professional 3×3 basketball experience to the Dominican Republic as Adris De Leon. A veteran of the FIBA 3×3 World Tour and Pro Circuit, De Leon has made a name for himself with his scoring ability, particularly his deadly long-range and mid-range shooting.

He led Lugano to the FIBA 3×3 World Tour Macau 2025 title and recently helped Lausanne finish fourth at the Go Too! Group Aichi Challenger 2026. Now, he is set to represent the Dominican Republic on the halfcourt for the first time, giving the national team a proven scorer with plenty of experience against the world’s best.

Leo Branquinho (Brazil)

Leo Branquinho remains one of the faces of Brazilian 3×3 basketball, and the FIBA 3×3 AmeriCup has become a familiar stage for the veteran. The 2026 edition will mark his sixth appearance in the competition, having previously played in 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024 and 2025.

Branquinho also represented Brazil at the FIBA 3×3 World Cup 2026, where the team finished 13th. On the professional circuit, he plays for Taipei Wanbao (TPE) and has already featured at three World Tour stops this season: Utsunomiya, Deqing and Bucharest. His experience at both the national team and professional levels will be valuable as Brazil look to contend for the title.

Luis Cuascut (Puerto Rico)

Luis Cuascut is one of the defining figures of Puerto Rican 3×3 basketball, having helped his country establish itself among the leading contenders in the Americas. He returns for his third AmeriCup appearance after playing in 2024 and 2025, when Puerto Rico captured silver on both occasions.

The San Juan player also represented Puerto Rico at the FIBA 3×3 World Cup 2026, where the team finished 16th. With another AmeriCup campaign ahead, Cuascut will be central to Puerto Rico’s hopes of turning another deep run into a gold-medal finish.

Jimmer Fredette (United States)

One of the biggest names ever to take to the halfcourt, Jimmer Fredette is back in action after coming out of retirement. The sharpshooter has returned to the professional circuit with Miami and will now suit up for the United States at the FIBA 3×3 AmeriCup 2026.

Fredette is no stranger to the competition, having helped the United States win the title in 2022. His shooting range and ability to score in bunches make him a compelling player to watch, particularly in a format where games can turn in a matter of possessions. His return adds another major storyline to an already intriguing men’s field.

Jerome Desrosiers (Canada)

Jerome Desrosiers brings considerable experience to Canada’s campaign. The seasoned forward is set for his third AmeriCup appearance after competing in 2024 and 2025, and he also represented Canada at the FIBA 3×3 World Cup 2025, where the team finished 13th.

A veteran of the FIBA 3×3 Pro Circuit and World Tour, Desrosiers has also tasted success at the highest level of the professional game. He led London to a World Tour stop victory in Deqing in 2025, underlining his ability to deliver against elite opposition. Canada will look to draw on that experience as it pursues a strong run in El Salvador.

Junior Saintel (Haiti)

Junior Saintel gives Haiti an explosive presence on the halfcourt. Having previously represented his country at the FIBA 3×3 AmeriCup in 2022, Saintel returns to a competition where his athleticism and finishing ability can make a difference.

Known for his hops and power around the basket, Saintel can bring energy to a Haitian squad looking to make a splash. In a fast-paced format that rewards players who can finish through contact and capitalize on open lanes, his ability to attack the rim will be an important weapon for Haiti.

Juan José Aguayo Ferrada (Chile)

Juan José Aguayo Ferrada is looking to help Chile build on a fifth-place finish at the FIBA 3×3 AmeriCup 2025. He has also represented his country at the FIBA 3×3 U23 World Cup 2024, where Chile finished 20th.

Aguayo Ferrada plays for Santiago on the Pro Circuit, gaining valuable experience against international opposition. Santiago recently finished 14th at the Phoenix Challenger 2026 and is scheduled to compete at the World Tour stops in Manama and Hong Kong. That exposure to the professional circuit should serve him well as he returns to the national team stage.

Alejo Maggi (Argentina)

Alejo Maggi is another player looking to make an impact after gaining valuable international experience over the past year. He featured for Argentina at the FIBA 3×3 AmeriCup 2025, where the team finished seventh, and he also represented his country at the FIBA 3×3 U23 World Cup 2025.

Maggi averaged 5.8 points per game at the U23 World Cup, demonstrating his ability to contribute offensively on the international stage. With another opportunity to represent Argentina at a major continental competition, he will look to build on that experience and help his team make a deeper run.

With experienced FIBA 3×3 World Tour campaigners, established national-team leaders and a returning 3×3 star all in the mix, the men’s competition promises plenty of intrigue. The battle for continental supremacy begins in Santa Tecla as the FIBA 3×3 AmeriCup 2026 tips off.

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

A AABB Santos 3×3/Fupes encerrou sua participação no Campeonato Brasileiro Interclubes de basquete 3×3 com resultados expressivos nas categorias adultas. A equipe feminina terminou a competição como vice-campeã, enquanto o time masculino alcançou a quarta colocação. Entre os destaques individuais, Rafael Frias terminou como cestinha do torneio.

O coordenador técnico da equipe, Cauê Rico, ressaltou o desempenho dos dois grupos na principal competição nacional da modalidade.

“Terminar o masculino adulto como top 4 foi o grande resultado. O feminino fez bonito. Esse é o principal campeonato do Brasil e ficamos felizes em nos manter entre as grandes equipes”, afirmou.

Elencos da AABB Santos 3×3/Fupes

A equipe masculina contou com Rafael Frias, Jota, Leandro Abreu e Guilherme Rojas. No feminino, o elenco vice-campeão foi formado por Julia Costa, Mia Hopkins, Geovana e Isa.

Equipes disputam os Jogos Abertos do Interior

Após o Brasileiro Interclubes, os dois times representam Santos nos 88º Jogos Abertos do Interior “Horácio Baby Barioni”, realizados em Votuporanga.

Na edição anterior, quando o basquete 3×3 estreou na programação dos Jogos, a equipe masculina conquistou o título, enquanto o time feminino terminou com o vice-campeonato.

WUHAN (China) – The next generation of 3×3 basketball stars is ready to take center stage in Wuhan, with 20 national teams set to battle for the FIBA 3×3 U23 World Cup 2026 men’s title. From a few FIBA 3×3 World Tour regulars to rising talents with international success already under their belts, these are eight players who could make a major impact.

Vuk Vukicevic (Serbia)

Few players in the field arrive with more high-level 3×3 basketball experience than Vukicevic. The Serbian is part of a Crvena Zvezda team that has competed extensively on the FIBA 3×3 World Tour 2026, including a fourth-place finish at WT Shanghai and a victory at the 3×3 PRO Cup Finals. He will also play with a chip on his shoulder as Serbia finished runners-up at last year’s U23 World Cup. Vukicevic was part of the Men’s Team of the Tournament, but he’d love nothing more than to finally get the gold in Wuhan.

Alex Fudge (USA)

Fudge is no stranger to the U23 stage. After helping the USA finish second at the FIBA 3×3 U23 World Cup 2024, he returned in 2025 as the Americans finished 11th. Now back for another campaign, the athletic forward will be one of the most experienced players on a USA team seeded 12th.

Seungwoo Kim (Republic of Korea)

Kim enters Wuhan in strong form after a busy summer. He was part of the Republic of Korea team that finished runner-up at the FIBA 3×3 Asia Cup 2026 and helped Team KOREA win the KBA 3×3 PRIME LEAGUE title in September. He also played a key role during Korea’s dominant run through the Youth Nations League, winning three of six stops in the Asia Central/East tournament.

Xianglong Liu (China)

The home crowd will have a player to rally behind in Liu. The Chinese guard arrives after a productive run of 3×3 basketball, including helping U23-1 win the Lite Quest Jingjiang and representing Beijing at the Beijing and Xi’an Challenger stops. With China seeded fourth, Liu will be one of the local players looking to make home advantage count.

Kajus Leliukas (Lithuania)

Leliukas has been one of Lithuania’s busiest young 3×3 basketball players in 2026. He helped Lithuania collect multiple Youth Nations League victories — winning three of six Europe 1 stops — before moving into the FIBA 3×3 World Tour, where he competed for Kaunas VDU and helped the team win the Swedbank 3×3 2026 IV – Tallinn + LITE QUEST event. Lithuania enter Wuhan as the fifth seed.

Te Tuhi Lewis (New Zealand)

Lewis brings international experience and a winning pedigree. He was part of New Zealand’s title-winning FIBA 3×3 Asia Cup 2026 campaign, even being named MVP. He subsequently helped the Tall Blacks compete at the FIBA 3×3 World Cup 2026, where they finished among the top 10. His recent Youth Nations League run also included two Asia SEA stop wins.

Sebastian Schwachhofer (Germany)

The top-seeded Germans have a strong young talent in Schwachhofer. The Baskets Bonn player has enjoyed a breakout 2026, helping his team win the Beijing Challenger while also collecting Youth Nations League success with Germany U21. Schwachhofer has also won international youth 3×3 basketball events before, helping Germany top the FIBA 3×3 U17 Europe Cup 2022 and FIBA 3×3 U18 World Cup 2023.

Martins Bumbieris (Latvia)

Bumbieris is part of a Latvia team seeded second, and his 2026 résumé offers plenty of reasons for optimism. He helped Latvia dominate the Europe-2 Youth Nations League, winning Stops 3, 4, 5 and 6, before returning to domestic 3×3 basketball action with Turība. He was also part of Latvia’s fifth-place team at the 2025 U23 World Cup.

With experience, momentum and plenty of ambition across the field, these eight players are ready for their chance to shine. In Wuhan, the next generation gets its stage, and another U23 World Cup champion is waiting to be crowned.

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

WUHAN (China) – The next generation of women’s 3×3 basketball is ready to bask under the spotlight at the the Hongshan Riverfront Park in Wuhan, with the world’s best young teams set to battle for the FIBA 3×3 U23 World Cup 2026 title. From established youth talents to players already making an impact on the FIBA 3×3 Women’s Series, these are eight names who could make a major difference.

Yurin Yamamoto (Japan)

Yamamoto arrives with plenty of recent high-level experience. She has been part of Mitsubishi Electric’s FIBA 3×3 Women’s Series campaign throughout 2026, including runner-up finishes in WS Bangkok and WS Tokyo and a third-place result in WS Jinan. Japan are seeded fifth, giving Yamamoto and her teammates a strong platform to make a deep run.

Jesika Hibalova (Czechia)

Hibalova has been a key part of Czechia’s strong Youth Nations League campaign. Czechia won Stops 1 and 2 before adding a runner-up finish at Stop 3, while Hibalova also featured at the FIBA 3×3 U23 World Cup 2025, where Czechia finished sixth. The seventh seeds will be looking for another big performance from her in Wuhan.

Mia Zeks (Slovenia)

Zeks brings both youth and senior 3×3 basketball experience to Slovenia. She helped Slovenia win Youth Nations League Stop 1 in 2026 and followed that with a runner-up finish at Stop 5. She also competed at WS Baku, where Slovenia finished fourth. With Slovenia seeded 13th, Zeks will be central to their challenge.

Adelina Urtane (Latvia)

Urtane was part of a Latvia side that made an immediate statement in the Youth Nations League, winning the first four Europe-2 stops before adding second- and third-place finishes in Stops 5 and 6. She has also gained Women’s Series experience with Riga. Latvia are seeded sixth and will be hoping that momentum carries into Wuhan.

Li Ruoying (China)

The home team has one of the most intriguing players in Li Ruoying. Li has spent much of 2026 competing on the Women’s Series with Beijing, including a fourth-place finish in Singapore and sixth place at the Project Redwings Shanghai Final, where she was also named Young Talent’s Laura Awardee as the best U25 player of the tournament. As the No.1 seed, China will have expectations on home soil, and Li will be one to watch.

Lotte van Kruistum (Netherlands)

Van Kruistum arrives with a résumé built for the biggest stage. She was part of the Netherlands’ title-winning teams in the FIBA 3×3 U23 World Cup 2025 and Europe Cup 2025. Van Kruistum has continued to compete at the highest level, helping the Dutch win multiple Women’s Series stops in 2026. With the Netherlands seeded second and focused on their title defense, she will be among the most accomplished figures on the half-court.

Elena Moreno (Spain)

Moreno returns to the U23 World Cup after helping Spain finish third in 2025. She has also enjoyed success in 2026, representing Spain at the Mediterranean Games and winning gold, while Spain’s Youth Nations League team captured Europe-4 Stops 4 and 5. The third seeds will expect Moreno’s experience to translate into another deep run.

Katie Fiso (USA)

Fiso enters Wuhan with momentum after a dominant Youth Nations League campaign. She helped USA win Stops 1, 2 and 4 in the Americas North conference, while also finishing third at Stop 5 and first again at Stop 6. With her prior experience leading USA to the title at FIBA 3×3 U18 World Cup 2023, Fiso will be one of the players carrying high expectations for a team aiming to retake their place at the top of of the FIBA 3×3 U23 World Cup Women’s podium.

The stage is set in Wuhan. With top seeds, defending champions and rising talents all converging on the half-court, these eight players should have a major say in who lifts the champions’ banner.

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) – Europe’s best women’s 3×3 basketball national teams are ready to battle for continental supremacy in Antwerp, with defending champions, World Cup winners, rising powers and some of the biggest stars from the FIBA 3×3 Women’s Series all set to take center stage.

With the FIBA 3×3 Europe Cup 2026 tipping off on September 11, the stage is set for three days of high-intensity action, where every possession could make the difference.

Before the race for gold begins, here are the players who could define the women’s competition in Antwerp.

Noortje Driessen (Netherlands)

The reigning FIBA 3×3 Europe Cup Women’s MVP will be at the heart of the Netherlands’ title defense. Driessen has emerged as one of the leading stars in women’s 3×3 basketball, combining scoring, playmaking and an ability to impact every area of the game. With the Netherlands looking to defend their European crown, expect Driessen to lead the way.

Gracia Alonso de Armiño (Spain)

Spain arrive in Antwerp as one of Europe’s perennial contenders, though they will be without longtime pillars Vega Gimeno and Sandra Ygueravide, who was part of last year’s Team of the Tournament. The onus then will be on Alonso de Armiño to carry Spain’s chances. She brings experience and leadership to the challenge as Spain look to make another deep run in a tournament packed with elite competition.

Laetitia Guapo (France)

France bring plenty of experience and confidence to Antwerp, especially after just winning the FIBA 3×3 Women’s Series Project Redwings Shanghai Final 2026. Of course, Guapo was among the team’s key leaders in Shanghai, even being named the MVP. Her ability to control the tempo and create opportunities will be important as France look to win their fourth Europe Cup title. A tough Pool C awaits, with Czechia and Sweden standing in their way.

Ama Degbeon (Germany)

Germany have developed into one of the continent’s most dangerous women’s programs. Paris 2024 Olympic champion Marie Reichert will have everyone’s attention, but Ama Degbeon could actually be the x-factor. She led the entire FIBA 3×3 Women’s Series 2026 in total rebounds and provides a powerful presence around the basket. With Germany facing Poland and hosts Belgium in Pool D, her physicality and rebounding should prove crucial.

Alexandra Mollenhauer (Azerbaijan)

Azerbaijan are raring to regain their winning ways after their recent disappointment at the FIBA 3×3 Women’s Series 2026 Shanghai Final. Still, their rise has been one of the biggest stories in women’s 3×3 basketball, and Mollenhauer hopes she can lead them to their first Europe Cup title. After helping Azerbaijan reach the Europe Cup Final last year, she has continued to shine on the Women’s Series. For sure, Azerbaijan will look to make another statement in Antwerp.

Aleksandra Ziemborska (Poland)

Poland enter the Europe Cup looking to bounce back after a difficult FIBA 3×3 World Cup 2026, and Ziemborska will be one of the players tasked with leading the response. Her scoring ability gives Poland a dangerous offensive option as they face Germany and Belgium in Pool D.

Karolína Sotolova (Czechia)

Czechia return to the Europe Cup with Sotolova as one of their key players. Her experience and all-around game will be important in a competitive Pool C featuring France and Sweden, with every possession potentially carrying major consequences.

Klaudia Papp (Hungary)

Never count Hungary out. Papp gives the team an explosive offensive weapon and has already shown she can trouble Europe’s biggest teams, with Hungary famously defeating Spain at the FIBA 3×3 World Cup 2026. Another big performance could put Hungary in the knockout mix in Antwerp.

The curtains are about to open at the European Championship arena on Groenplaats. With the defending champions, emerging contenders and Europe’s biggest women’s 3×3 basketball stars converging on Antwerp, the margins will be razor-thin. These eight players will have a major role to play as Europe’s best battle for the crown.

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.

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