ULAANBAATAR (Mongolia) - Before the FIBA 3x3 World Cup begins, 12 teams will be concentrating on the prize at WT Ulaanbaatar.
Here is all the important information for the sixth stop on this season's FIBA 3x3 World Tour. Where can I watch the WT Ulaanbaatar? The action runs from June 20-21, and you can follow it live on the FIBA 3x3 YouTube, Facebook and Sina Weibo pages. Who is competing in Ulaanbaatar? Seven of the top 16 teams in the rankings and a total of 12 squads: Liman, Riffa, Chongming, Ulaanbaatar MMC Energy, Baskets Bonn, Carolina, Hangzhou, Marijampole MANTINGA, Bordeaux, Doha, Zavkhan, Gargzdai What are the pools?
Who are the favorites?
We're going to start with young guns Baskets Bonn (GER), who are racing up the standings like Brad Pitt in F1. The Germans are now the real deal, especially superstar Fabian Giessmann who is no longer a raw talent - he's an MVP contender after almost lifting Baskets Bonn to the title in Vienna.
But the Germans will have to keep their foot on the gas because there are a lot of seasoned vets and former champs in this draw. None more legendary than Liman (SRB), who are desperate for a first WT title since 2023 and their chances are high if big fella Marko Stevanovic dominates the paint.
No.2 seed Riffa (BRN) haven't got going this year and are coming off a couple of early exits. It is mirroring their slow start in 2024 before they clicked into gear.
Riffa are hoping to change their fortunes in Ulaanbaatar, while in contrast Chinese teams Hangzhou (CHN) and Chongming (CHN) have proven to be legit contenders and must be taken seriously.
We just have to mention hometown heroes Ulaanbaatar MMC Energy (MGL), who will have their passionate fans by their side as they return to defend the half-court where they've had so many special moments over the years.
Who are the players to watch?
We're in Ulaanbaatar, so we just have to start with the dude who will amp up the volume in the bleachers - Anand Ariunbold aka 'The Archer'. When he's on target, look out!
He's not the only sniper in town because Antonio Ralat can go on such heaters that flames are coming out of the Wilson.
While Giessmann has stolen the show, his teammate Denzel Agyeman should not be overshadowed because this dude is a dunking machine and human highlight reel.
Speaking of entertainers, look no further than breakout star Aleksandar Lazic, who can jump over buildings and - probably - leap out of planes that he really should be in the running to be the next Ethan Hunt if he ever wants a side hustle. If you're into brute force then Cameron Forte is your guy because no one quite plays bully ball like him.
FIBA