BANGKOK (Thailand) – The FIBA 3x3 Sponsor | Red Bull Champions Cup 2026 tips off later this week in Bangkok with eight of the world’s top national teams battling for the title and valuable qualification rewards on the international calendar.
The second edition of the competition features Serbia, United States, Netherlands, Lithuania, Spain, Australia, Madagascar and hosts Thailand, with teams divided into two pools before the knockout stage begins.
With the stakes high and the margins thin in 3x3 basketball, here’s how the teams stack up heading into the tournament.
1. Serbia
The defending champions enter Bangkok as the team to beat. Serbia have long set the benchmark in international 3x3 basketball, combining elite shot-making, physical defense and unmatched chemistry. With proven winners and last year’s Champions Cup MVP Stefan Milivojevic leading the charge, Serbia once again bring the most complete roster in the field. Until someone proves otherwise, the throne still belongs to Serbia.
2. Netherlands
If any team looks capable of dethroning Serbia, it might be the Netherlands. The Dutch program has become one of the most consistent forces in global 3x3 basketball, blending athleticism with excellent spacing and shot creation. With superstar Worthy de Jong spearheading the attack, the Netherlands have the firepower and experience to make a deep run. Don’t be surprised if this team is playing on the final day.
3. United States
The United States arrive with one of the most dynamic lineups in the tournament. James Parrott and Justin Pierce anchor a team that plays with pace, toughness and defensive intensity. Consistency will be key, but if the USA offense starts rolling, they can beat anyone in the field.
4. Lithuania
Lithuania’s program continues to produce rugged, disciplined teams. The Baltic powerhouse thrives in the physical halfcourt game and rarely makes mistakes. Expect Lithuania to grind out close games and punish opponents inside the paint. If the tournament turns into a battle of toughness, Lithuania will be right in the mix.
5. Spain
Spain enter the tournament as a potential dark horse. With Guim Expósito, the reigning FIBA 3x3 World Cup MVP, Spain have a player capable of taking over games offensively. The Spaniards combine creative scoring with solid perimeter defense, making them a dangerous matchup in pool play. If Expósito catches fire, Spain could climb this list quickly.
6. Australia
Australia always bring energy and physicality to the halfcourt. Led by Dillon Stith, the reigning FIBA 3x3 Asia Cup MVP, the Gangurrus bring athleticism, pace and scoring ability that can overwhelm opponents. They may not be the favorites, but Australia has proven it can compete with anyone on the right day.
7. Madagascar
Madagascar have quietly become one of the most intriguing teams in international 3x3 basketball. Representing the African region, they bring speed, fearless shot-making and plenty of confidence. Their style can be unpredictable, which often makes them a tricky opponent for more structured teams. A surprise run isn’t impossible.
8. Thailand
The hosts enter the tournament as underdogs but will have one major advantage: the Bangkok crowd. Fresh off winning the Southeast Asian Games 2025 3x3 basketball gold medal, Thailand continue to grow their 3x3 basketball program. They will look to channel the energy of the home fans at centralwOrld Square. While the competition is stacked, host teams have historically produced memorable moments in front of their supporters. If Thailand can steal a win early, the atmosphere could become a factor.
With Serbia chasing another title, Netherlands and USA pushing hard, and several teams capable of disrupting the order, the FIBA 3x3 Champions Cup 2026 promises another tightly contested tournament. Momentum can certainly shift in seconds, and these rankings may look very different once the games begin.
FIBA