DONGGUAN (China) - Just days after stunning the world in Kaohsiung, Kanazawa (JPN) will be out to make another giant-killing run at the FIBA 3x3 Dongguan Challenger on October 9-10.
Let's preview the 17th Challenger of the season. The Favorites
We just have to start with new kids on the block Kanazawa, who thrillingly put themselves on the 3x3 map in Kaohsiung but are determined to prove that wasn't just a fluke. Their title run started with a major upset of Miami (USA) and the teams will meet again in Pool A in Dongguan.
Miami (USA) could not recover from that first up stutter, eventually falling in the semis, but they don't have to wait long to rebound. The No.1 seed will be strengthened by the return of scoring machine James Parrott as the Americans seek a third title of the season.
No.2 seed Vienna's (AUT) return to the pro circuit ended with a quarter-final exit at WT Shenzhen but the Austrians should be better second up as they look to shake off rust following a layoff.
Third seed Hangzhou (CHN) had a disastrous time in Shenzhen, exiting on Day One after losing both their games. High-flyer Aleksandar Lazic was grounded in Shenzhen, but he'll again look to soar in Dongguan
The Field
This is a loaded field and Lugano (SUI) quite possibly should have been rated among the contenders considering they've won two titles this season. Mike Efevberha has been their head chef this season and he'll need to cook up a storm with plenty of other dangerous teams in the draw.
Speaking of dudes who can go on heaters and we just have to mention Ryo Ozawa, who is deadlier than sake and he will once again lead Shinagawa CITY EXE (JPN).
OG NY Harlem (USA) are one of the most iconic 3x3 teams, but they aren't just here to tease like LeBron in his latest publicity stunt. The New Yorkers mean business and legendary Dominique Jones still can dance on the half-court as if he's starring in Saturday Night Fever.
Even though they struggled in Shenzhen, don't write off emerging Valencia (ESP) but they have to do it the long way via QD.
Pools Pool A: Miami (USA), Christchurch BBNZ (NZL), Kanazawa (JPN) Pool B: Vienna (AUT), Podebrady (CZE), Guanggong Redwings (CHN) Pool C: Hangzhou, Shinagawa CITY EXE (JPN), Qingchuan WOLFUNITED (CHN) Pool D: Lugano (SUI), NY Harlem (USA), QD What's at stake The top 3 teams in Dongguan will qualify for the WT Bucharest on November 8-9 as part of the FIBA 3x3 World Tour 2025. How to watch The two-day extravaganza is on October 9-10 and you can follow it live on the FIBA 3x3 YouTube pages.
FIBA