AMSTERDAM (Netherlands) - The FIBA 3x3 World Tour 2025 made a triumphant first season stop in Europe with an unbelievable Amsterdam Masters, where Toulouse (FRA) became a new champion.
Let's look back at the third stop played on May 17-18.
Djoko emerges from Seguela's shadow to lead new champs
There is a new champ on the World Tour. They are known as Toulouse, who recorded a first dub on the biggest stage in their debut season. But success is not a new feeling for their stars who were formerly part of powerhouse Paris (FRA).
These Frenchmen will be happy to emerge with a dub after constantly falling short at the last hurdle last year. And Toulouse proved they are such a formidable force because they aren't merely relying on superstar Franck Seguela.
It was MVP Paul Djoko who stole the show with a team-high 29 points including 5 in the final against Liman and the title-winning two-piece.
He was a terror on both ends and absolutely electric every time he had the Wilson in his hands. 'The Joker' might often be in the shadow of Seguela, but he's no joke and can take over games - and tournaments - when he is feeling it.
With Djoko firing on all cylinders, Toulouse were able to overcome a slow start after a Day One defeat to Liman (SRB) and power past hometown heroes Amsterdam RABOBANK (NED) and Vienna (AUT) before exacting revenge on Liman in a classic final.
Welcome to a new era of French 3x3 on the men's pro circuit.
Liman again knocking on the door of a title
In a time of rapid change and new teams emerging, there remains one constant. Legendary Liman are ageless. They are 3x3's version of Tom Cruise. In five events on this season's pro circuit, Liman have reached the final three times to prove they remain one of the best in the business.
But, frustratingly, they have yet to record any dubs as Liman's World Tour title drought extends to more than 18 months. It looked like they were going to end their hoodoo in style with Nemanja Zigon proving he's among the best recruits of the season with a stellar two-way performance.
But it wasn't quite enough for Liman, who will be satisfied with their consistency to start another campaign although they are getting restless for a title.
Amsterdam's struggles at home continue
There is no need to introduce Amsterdam RABOBANK (NED). We know they are the reigning World Tour Final champs, boast Olympic gold medalists and reached consecutive finals to start this World Tour season.
But Amsterdam's kryptonite appears to be playing at home after falling in the quarters for the third straight time on their half-court. Hopes were high to be third time lucky when Amsterdam edged Carolina (PUR) in their opener after Maarten Bouwknecht hit a Maurice Lacroix two-point Buzzer Beater.
They also enjoyed the bragging rights over compatriots Utrecht (NED) before becoming unstuck in the quarters against Toulouse. Their old woes resurfaced when they became too reliant on superstar Worthy de Jong, who scored 9 of their 13 points as he engaged in a titanic battle with rival Seguela.
But he did not have enough support much to the disappointment of their passionate fans, who have yet to see their heroes play at their very best on home soil.
Positive vibes for Vienna
The Austrians did not walk away with the title, but it was an improvement for them after a disappointing quarter-final exit at the Utsunomiya Opener. Their best effort was a terrific win over Utsunomiya champs Miami (USA) in the quarters, with speedy Nico Kaltenbrunner flirting with a triple-five to be the best player on the half-court.
After a tough time in Utsunomiya, Kaltenbrunner was back to his brilliant best to finish No.1 in player-value (48.5) and points (32). The positive vibes continued with heart and soul player Matthias Linortner back in action for the first time in 307 days since tearing his Achilles.
He showed glimpses of his best in a tonic for an improving Vienna.
Amsterdam was incredible
As we well know, the Netherlands hold a special place in 3x3 being a pioneering country and the reigning men's Olympic gold medalists. Amsterdam, one of the most famous cities in the world and a tourist magnet, is now firmly cemented as an iconic World Tour destination after successfully hosting the event for the third straight season. This year's event was held at the Docklands NDSM, a huge former shipyard that has been the site of world famous concerts. But it has never come alive to such a degree as this memorable last weekend, where the World Tour took center stage.
FIBA