MIES (Switzerland) - For many players, 3x3 basketball is an opportunity to pivot their career. For Kyle Guy, it is a chance to pursue a dream.
The former NCAA champion and NBA player will make his long-awaited FIBA 3x3 World Tour debut with Team Phoenix in Vienna, bringing his renowned shooting touch and competitive spirit to one of the sport's biggest stages.
Guy's journey to 3x3 basketball began with a simple realization. Like countless American players, he grew up dreaming of representing his country at the Olympic Games. The emergence of 3x3 basketball as an Olympic discipline opened a new pathway.
"I've always wanted to play in the Olympics," Guy said. "So I looked into 3x3 basketball."
What he discovered immediately caught his attention.
"Seeing the tough shot-making, space and competitiveness got me excited," he said. "The events are awesome."
Now, after joining Team Phoenix as part of USA Basketball's growing focus and investment in 3x3 basketball, Guy is preparing for his first taste of FIBA 3x3 World Tour competition. He knows his basketball pedigree will attract attention, but he welcomes the challenge.
"I expect to have a target on my back individually, but also as a team," Guy said. "I respect the talent and the game itself of 3x3 and look forward to competing at a high level and showing my ability on a big stage."
The American believes Team Phoenix is uniquely positioned to make an impact. Alongside Team Miami, and of course, the USA FIBA 3x3 Women's Series team, among others, Phoenix represents USA Basketball's commitment to building year-round professional 3x3 basketball programs capable of competing with the world's best.
"I think USA is taking huge steps to grow the game of 3x3 and its rosters," Guy said. "They've poured resources, time and effort into the Phoenix and Miami teams and we're proud to represent our country."
According to Guy, fans can expect a distinctive style from Team Phoenix.
"I think our teams are different style and identity-wise," he added. "The style we play with Phoenix will be very exciting for people to see."
As one of the most recognizable newcomers on the circuit, Guy understands that expectations will follow him wherever he plays. That said, individual accolades are far from his primary focus.
"I've never shied away from the lights," he said. "But I also know any success or notoriety I receive is because of my teammates. We have a special group, and we're all really connected."
Still, Guy is confident about what he can bring to the half-court game.
"I'm a very confident player. I play with a ton of passion, and I love to compete," he said. "I think I'll be one of the top shooters on the circuit, but my ability to create for others and score other ways than twos is something I take pride in."
Ultimately, everything traces back to the same goal that first drew him to 3x3 basketball: helping the United States reach the top of the podium.
"At USA, we have a high standard and rightfully so. We want to win gold," Guy said. "It's exciting because now we have a big pool of guys playing 3x3 year-round to prepare and build chemistry."
The next step in that journey comes in Vienna, where one of basketball's most accomplished newcomers will finally test himself against many of the world's best 3x3 basketball players.
FIBA