SINGAPORE - Champions don’t stay down for long. Australia arrive at the FIBA 3x3 Asia Cup 2026 with something to prove after a painful twin setbacks at the FIBA 3x3 Champions Cup 2026, and with both teams still holding the continental crown.
Men: Three-peat push
The Gangurrus men finished fifth at the FIBA 3x3 Champions Cup, falling to the Netherlands and USA, with their lone win coming against Madagascar.
For a team used to setting the standard, it was a reminder of the margins at the highest level of 3x3 basketball.
Now, they turn their focus to the FIBA 3x3 Asia Cup, where they remain the benchmark.
Australia are the defending champions and are chasing a third consecutive title, leaning on a refreshed roster led by Dillon Stith, the FIBA 3x3 Asia Cup 2025 MVP, and Samuel McDaniel.
With only two holdovers from the FIBA 3x3 Champions Cup squad, the group enters with a new look and a chance to reset. It won't be easy, though, as they are in the same pool as powerhouse China, awaiting the winner of Qualifying Draw B, which features Malaysia, Saudi Arabia, Turkmenistan and Macau.
Women: Familiar core, same ambition
The Australia women also endured a challenging FIBA 3x3 Champions Cup, finishing sixth after losses to the Netherlands and USA, with their only win coming against Madagascar.
But the bigger picture remains unchanged.
Australia are still the team to beat in the FIBA 3x3 Asia Cup.
The defending champions are chasing a fourth straight FIBA 3x3 Asia Cup women's title, bringing back the core of their FIBA 3x3 Champions Cup lineup, with Amy Atwell stepping in for Marena Whittle.
Continuity, experience and a proven system remain their strengths even after a setback. The Gangurrus women are pooled in the Main Draw with dangerous Philippines, awaiting the Qualifying Draw D winner, which could be any team from among Tonga, Macau and Maldives.
A response on the horizon
For both teams, the Asia Cup represents an opportunity.
An opportunity to respond. An opportunity to reset. And an opportunity to remind the region why Australia are the dominant force in the competition.
In 3x3 basketball, form can shift quickly.
And Australia will be looking to shift it back in their favor in Singapore.
FIBA