HENGQIN (China) – The wait is almost over. The new FIBA 3x3 Pro Circuit officially tips off with the FIBA 3x3 Hengqin Challenger 2026, where a loaded field is set to battle for early-season bragging rights and three coveted tickets to the FIBA 3x3 World Tour Chengdu 2026.
As the first FIBA 3x3 Challenger stop of the year, Hengqin immediately raises the stakes. With only the top three teams advancing to Chengdu, there’s no easing into the season. Every possession, every game already carries weight in what promises to be a fiercely contested opener.
Contenders Galore
Leading the charge is powerhouse Amsterdam RABOBANK (NED), who enter as one of the most formidable squads on the circuit. Spearheaded by the ever-dynamic Worthy de Jong, Amsterdam’s blend of chemistry, athleticism and big-game experience makes them an early favorite to stamp their authority on the 2026 campaign.
But they won’t have it easy.
Serbian side Liman (SRB) return with a refreshed roster, headlined by the addition of Stefan Milivojevic. Known for their trademark discipline and physicality, Liman are always a threat in any draw. Now, their new-look lineup could make them even more dangerous.
Germany will be well represented by Skyliners (GER) and Baskets Bonn Telekom (GER), both capable of making deep runs. Skyliners boast the exciting Leon Fertig, while Baskets Bonn add intrigue with the arrival of Milos Jovanovic, giving them a strong and seasoned presence to complement their youthful energy.
France’s Toulouse (FRA) also loom as serious contenders, with Paul Djoko bringing his trademark quickness and shot-making ability to the half-court. Meanwhile, home fans will have plenty to cheer for with Hengqin (CHN), Hangzhou Jingwei (CHN) and Deqing (CHN) aiming to make a statement against elite international competition.
Another name to watch is FIBA 3x3 World Cup 2025 MVP Guim Exposito, who links up with Deqing in what could be one of the tournament’s more intriguing storylines. With several players switching teams in the offseason, Hengqin offers the first real glimpse of new combinations under pressure.
Qualifying Draw
Qualifying Draw A: Amsterdam RABOBANK NED, Antananarivo MAD, Mac Peninsula MAC Qualifying Draw B: Crvena Zvezda SRB, Hengqin CHN, HK Central HKG
Main Draw
Pool A: Liman SRB, Fuengirola ESP, Bordeaux FRA Pool B: Skyliners GER, Shinjuku SS JPN, Kandava LAT Pool C: Toulouse FRA, DeQing CHN, QD A Pool D: Hangzhou Jingwei CHN, Baskets Bonn GER, QD B
Stacked Start
As always in 3x3 basketball, depth, chemistry and clutch execution will be tested from the opening tip. Early-season tournaments often bring unpredictability, but they also reveal which teams have done their homework and which ones still need time to gel.
With a stacked lineup of squads and FIBA 3x3 World Tour spots on the line, the FIBA 3x3 Hengqin Challenger 2026 is set to deliver the fast-paced, high-intensity action fans have come to expect. The road to Chengdu starts here, and only the sharpest teams will take the first step forward.
FIBA