KOSICE (Slovakia) - Finland may have fallen short of qualification for the FIBA 3x3 Europe Cup Crelan 2026, but the Nordic nation left Kosice with something equally valuable: belief.
For the first time in their history, both Finland's men's and women's teams recorded victories at a FIBA 3x3 event, marking a significant milestone in the country's continued development on the international 3x3 basketball stage.
The breakthrough was highlighted by a dramatic victory from the men's team, who secured their first-ever win at the event with a thrilling 19-18 triumph over Poland.
Finland appeared headed for defeat as Poland controlled much of the contest, but Okko Johannes Järvi sparked a late comeback. The explosive scorer sank three consecutive baskets to put Finland ahead 18-16 with just 11 seconds remaining. Poland responded to tie the game, but Alvar Robert Matias Peltoniemi delivered the decisive blow, knocking down the game-winning basket to seal a historic result.
Järvi finished with 10 points in one of the most memorable performances of the tournament.
The victory helped Finland finish pool play with a 1-1 record and advance to Round 2, where they eventually fell to unbeaten Switzerland, 21-15.
The women's team enjoyed an equally encouraging campaign.
After opening with a tough loss to Italy, Finland bounced back impressively against Croatia. Kaisa Matilda Kuisma and Annika Elina Aarrejoki scored five points apiece in a hard-fought 15-12 victory that secured the women's team's first-ever win at the competition.
Finland narrowly missed out on the knockout stage following a 19-17 defeat to Portugal, but they ensured their tournament ended on a high note. Led by Aarrejoki's 8-point performance, Finland overwhelmed Turkiye 20-11 to claim a second victory and finish with a respectable 2-2 record in Pool A.
While qualification for Antwerp ultimately proved out of reach, Finland demonstrated clear signs of progress throughout the event.
The men's team showed resilience and composure in pressure situations, while the women's squad proved capable of competing with more established European programs. Most importantly, both teams gained valuable experience and confidence against strong international opposition.
For a nation still carving out its place in the 3x3 basketball landscape, the results in Kosice represent more than just wins in the standings.
They are evidence of a program moving forward.
Finland's breakthrough performances may not have earned a ticket to Antwerp this time, but they offered a glimpse of a promising future.
FIBA