PARIS OLYMPIC STARS TO FEATURE AS FIBA 3X3 WORLD TOUR RETURNS TO ABU DHABI

The Abu Dhabi Sports Council (ADSC) is proud to once again announce the hosting of the FIBA 3x3 World Tour Abu Dhabi. Taking place on October 26-27 at a specially built arena along the Abu Dhabi Corniche, the best 3x3 ballers on the planet – including recent Paris Olympic medalists – will compete for vital points, podium glory and of course – bragging rights.

This year's championship will bring together elite 3x3 basketball players from around the world, including stars from the recent Paris 2024 Olympics, where the sport captivated global audiences with its fast pace and thrilling action. Notably, the Paris Olympics saw the Amsterdam clinch gold, with the dynamic Dutch players making their way to Abu Dhabi this October. Furthermore, FIBA 3x3 icons Team Ub from Serbia will bring their seasoned skills back to the capital, alongside the likes of team Vienna, Hangzhou and Ulaanbaatar MMC Energy.

The final list of teams is still under process due to qualification, but you can keep track of the Teams List here.

The Abu Dhabi series offers fans in the UAE and abroad the opportunity to experience live sports at its finest, marking a significant return to the capital since the lifting of travel restrictions and the reopening of Abu Dhabi’s borders. The 3x3 format, known for its simplicity and exhilarating pace, has grown in popularity since its Olympic debut, but has flourished in the UAE capital thanks to the dedicated support and vision from ADSC.

His Excellency Aref Hamad Al Awani, General Secretary of the Abu Dhabi Sports Council, emphasized the city’s readiness to host this international event: “We are excited to bring the FIBA 3x3 World Tour back to Abu Dhabi, particularly after the remarkable display of 3x3 basketball at the Paris Olympics. The sport's rapid growth has been impressive, and we are confident that this tournament will further enhance its reputation, as we offer a thrilling and secure experience for both players and fans.”

The Abu Dhabi leg of the World Tour season will feature 14 international teams, alongside a local team from the ever-popular QUEST Community Championship. Thanks to ADSC, this Community Championship continues throughout the year, culminating with the winning team earning the right to represent Abu Dhabi at the main event on October 26-27 – adding a local flavor to the international competition.

Ignacio Soriano, 3x3 Head of Events at FIBA, remarked, “Our partnership with this city and its sports leadership has flourished for nearly a decade now, solidifying Abu Dhabi as the ideal host for world-class 3x3 basketball. We eagerly anticipate our return to the capital and are confident that the Abu Dhabi event will once again radiate the vibrant energy that perfectly aligns with our organization’s vision.” 

The FIBA 3x3 World Tour Abu Dhabi will feature a prize fund of US$160,000, with $40,000 awarded to the champions, $30,000 for the runners-up, and $22,000 for the third-place team. The event will also include various entertainment activities, including musical performances, crowd participation and competitions, and the popular slam dunk contest and a shoot-out competition, ensuring a festival atmosphere for all attendees.

Abu Dhabi continues to solidify its position as a global hub for sports, with a calendar full of prestigious international events. From the UAE Cycling Tour and UFC Championships to the Abu Dhabi World Professional Jiu-Jitsu Championship and the upcoming Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, the capital is set to host some of the most exciting sports spectacles in the world.

Tickets are available from ticketmaster.ae with prices starting from AED 25.