SINGAPORE – The FIBA 3x3 Asia Cup has delivered some of the most memorable moments in international 3x3 basketball.
From dynasty-defining runs to emotional breakthroughs and individual brilliance, the continental showpiece has consistently showcased the intensity, skill and unpredictability that define 3x3 basketball.
As the competition returns to Singapore once again, we look back at some of the greatest moments that have shaped FIBA 3x3 Asia Cup history.
Australia’s dominance sets the standard
No nation has defined the FIBA 3x3 Asia Cup more than Australia.
With multiple titles in both the men’s and women’s competitions, Australia has established itself as the benchmark for success in the region. Their ability to consistently produce elite 3x3 basketball talent and perform under pressure has made them the team to beat year after year.
Their continued dominance has not only brought trophies but has also raised the level of competition across Asia and Oceania.
Mongolia’s rise as a 3x3 powerhouse
Few nations embody the spirit of 3x3 basketball like Mongolia.
Driven by a passionate fan base and a strong streetball culture, Mongolia has become a consistent contender on the FIBA 3x3 Asia Cup stage. Their physical style, chemistry and resilience have made them one of the most exciting teams to watch in the competition.
From historic wins to deep tournament runs, Mongolia’s rise has been a defining storyline of the Asia Cup era.
To wit, few moments in recent FIBA 3x3 Asia Cup history have carried as much emotion as Mongolia’s bronze-medal finish in the women’s competition in 2024.
At the final horn, Khulan Onolbaatar could not hold back her tears during the post-game interview, capturing the significance of the moment for a nation deeply passionate about 3x3 basketball.
Mongolia had endured a long wait for a return to the podium, with their last women’s medal dating back to 2013. After falling to Australia in the Semi-Finals, they responded with composure and purpose, defeating Chinese Taipei to secure bronze and spark emotional scenes on the half-court.
It was more than just a medal. This win was a statement of resilience and a reminder of Mongolia’s enduring presence in 3x3 basketball.
China break Australia’s streak (2022)
For years, Australia had set the pace in the women’s competition, until China changed the narrative.
In 2022, China delivered a breakthrough performance to claim the title and become the most recent team to deny Australia gold. Their disciplined approach and execution under pressure highlighted the growing depth of women’s 3x3 basketball in Asia.
It remains one of the most significant shifts in the tournament’s competitive landscape.
Ryo Ozawa’s scoring explosion
When it comes to individual brilliance, few performances can match what Ryo Ozawa delivered in 2025.
The Japanese guard produced a scoring display for the ages, including a remarkable 20-point game, which was arguably the most dominant offensive performances seen in 3x3 basketball. Over the course of the tournament, he amassed 51 points and led all players in value (53.3), underlining his impact on every possession.
While Japan narrowly missed out on a medal after a heartbreaking loss to New Zealand in the bronze medal game, Ozawa’s heroics left a lasting impression.
It was a reminder that in 3x3 basketball, a single player can take over a game and create moments that endure long after the final score.
Uy, Filipino!
The Philippines have, of course, also had their moments. Against Iran in 2019, Philippines were considered major underdogs, but RJ Abarrientos had other ideas as he produced one of the great 3x3 performances to inspire his hoops-crazy nation.
Without injured star Ricci Rivero, Abarrientos put the cape on to finish with an incredible 18 points. The then 19-year-old saved his best for last with an iconic buzzer beater to break the 19 apiece deadlock.
With his seventh two-piece, Abarrientos inked his name in 3x3 basketball lore and became an instant hero back home.
Another Filipino who has shone on the FIBA 3x3 Asia Cup stage is Almond Vosotros. He did so in 2022, when the Philippines enjoyed their best ever performance at the tournament.
The incredible run was highlighted by a major upset of No.1 seed Mongolia in a Quarter-Final classic.
Trailing 20-18, Vosotros went to the line and made his first free-throw before missing the second. However, the Philippines grabbed the rebound and Vosotros decided to go for the W from downtown.
He was all money to trigger scenes of jubilation from the typically loud Filipinos in the crowd.
Japan overcome Mongolia to win bronze (2019)
Before 2019, Japan's women had never medalled in the FIBA 3x3 Asia Cup.
They were extra determined in 2019 and looked pretty good after beating defending champs New Zealand in the Quarter-Finals.
However, Japan's dream run ended against Kazakhstan in the Semi-Finals, meaning their medal hopes rested with a clash against Mongolia.
They were not to be denied with a 21-14 victory to finally win a medal they had long craved.
Japan's star throughout was Minami Iju, who was named in the team of the tournament after pouring in 38 points.
Indonesia's historic bronze medal (2022)
No one expected Indonesia's women to finish on the podium back in 2022, but they surprised everyone to claim a historic bronze medal.
Their fairy-tale run was mainly due to the insane performance of Kimberley Pierre-Louis, who lived up to her nickname of 'Buckets' with 54 points in 5 games.
Micaela Cocks downs rival Australia (2018)
Neighbors Australia and New Zealand have a fierce rivalry across sports, and it memorably manifested at the FIBA 3x3 Asia Cup 2018 in the Semi-Finals.
The teams couldn't be separated after 10 minutes with OT needed to find a winner. Then came Micaela Cocks, who hit the two-pointer from the left side to trigger scenes of celebration for New Zealand.
She wasn't done, too. Cocks led her team past China in the Final as New Zealand claimed their first and only FIBA 3x3 Asia Cup gold so far.
Singapore is home
Since 2022, Singapore has played a central role in the growth of the FIBA 3x3 Asia Cup.
With its iconic venue, strong fan engagement and festival atmosphere, the Lion City has helped elevate the event into one of the premier competitions on the 3x3 basketball calendar. Each year, the energy inside the venue reflects the sport’s growing appeal across the region.
Singapore’s continued hosting has provided consistency, visibility and a stage worthy of the competition’s biggest moments.
A legacy still being written
As the FIBA 3x3 Asia Cup continues to grow, new moments are added to its story with every edition.
Whether it’s a dynasty extended, a new contender emerging, or an unforgettable individual performance, the tournament remains a showcase of everything that makes 3x3 basketball unique.
With the next chapter set to unfold in Singapore, fans can expect more moments that will shape the future of the game in Asia and beyond.
FIBA