SINGAPORE - Led by reigning MVP Marena Whittle, Australia's all-conquering women's team will return in full force as they seek a title defense at the FIBA 3x3 Asia Cup 2024 on March 27-31. 

Australia, affectionately known as 'Gangurrus', swept to their third gold medal last year after completing the most dominant run seen at Asia's showpiece event. 

The irresistible women's team were a class above with no team scoring more than 11 points against them as Australia avenged falling short in 2022.

Fans fell in love with this flawless 3x3 machine as Whittle completely dominated the paint and was well supported by athletic marvels Anneli Maley and Alex Wilson, while speedy Lauren Mansfield was unstoppable from deep. 

Maley, a former WNBA player, was named in the Team of the Tournament in the 2022 edition. 

This awesome foursome, who also won bronze at the FIBA 3x3 World Cup 2023, will return to Singapore as they aim to become the first women's team to successfully defend their crown at the Asia Cup. 

It won't be easy with Australia to face an early challenge against rival New Zealand on March 30 in a rematch of last year's final. The third team in Pool D will come from the qualifying draw. 

"We are excited to return to Singapore to compete and defend our gold medal from last year," Maley said. "This is a really important competition for Australian 3x3 basketball as we look ahead to the 3x3 Olympic Qualifying Tournament."

For the third straight year, the Asia Cup will be held in Singapore with the seventh edition of the tournament staged at the OCBC Square at Singapore Sports Hub.

The qualifying draw will take place on March 27-28

FIBA