BANGKOK (Thailand) - The Champions Cup, FIBA 3x3's new showpiece global event, will kick-start 2025 in epic fashion in Bangkok, Thailand, on March 14-16.
The excitement keeps heightening after the pools for the men's and women's competitions were announced.
Men: Pool A: Serbia, Netherlands, Austria, Madagascar Pool B: USA, France, Australia, Thailand
Pool A is highlighted by an epic contest to die for with 3x3 powerhouse Serbia to lock horns with Olympic gold medalist Netherlands. It is a blockbuster match-up that is set to feature superstars Worthy de Jong and Strahinja Stojacic going head to head.
'Hype Worthy' stole the crown of 'Doctor Strange' by the end of 2024, but you just know Stojacic wants to reclaim his place at the top of the 3x3 multiverse.
It's much more than a two-horse race with European champions Austria and African winners Madagascar also in Pool A.
Pool B is headlined by Olympic silver medalist and hoops power USA, who will once again show off their insane depth. Australia have long dominated in Asia, but now will be tested on the world stage while Thailand will need the support of their passionate fans to go on a giant-killing run.
Women: Pool A: China, Germany, Canada, Madagascar Pool B: France, Spain, Australia, Thailand
Pool A features a rematch between the tense Olympic semi-final between Germany and Canada, who will be out for revenge after falling agonizingly short.
China can't be counted out because they are former Asia and World Cup champs, while Madagascar are looking to prove they can dominate outside of Africa.
European rivals France and Spain will again be going at it and you just know it will be an instant classic. Not to be overshadowed, Australia have been collecting Ws for fun for many years and will be a legit title threat while host Thailand will be tough opposition in their home conditions.
The top two teams of each pool will advance straight to the semi-finals - there will be no quarter-finals or play-ins to underline the cut-throat nature of this historic event - before the final and third-place game.
As the name suggests, this tournament will feature numerous champions - continental (Asia, Europe, Americas, Africa) and Paris Olympic gold medalists. The top two teams on the 3x3 men's and women's rankings have also made the cut, while host Thailand have automatic spots in both genders.
There is plenty at stake with so much more than bragging rights on the line.
The winners of the men's and women's competitions will qualify for the next Champions Cup in 2026 and also the World Cup 2026.
The successful men's national federation will also be rewarded with two World Tour spots this year, while the women's equivalent will get wildcards for a guest team in five FIBA 3x3 Women's Series 2025 stops.
Both slots (men's and women's) shall be awarded to the same team.
FIBA