BANGKOK (Thailand) – The race to the LA28 Olympic Games has officially begun, with the Netherlands (women) and Spain (men) securing places in the FIBA 3x3 Cups-based Olympic Qualifying Tournament (OQT) following their performances at the FIBA 3x3 Sponsor | Red Bull Champions Cup 2026.
The tournament provided a direct route into the Olympic qualification structure, rewarding top-performing teams with early positioning in the race to Los Angeles.
Netherlands women take the direct route
The Netherlands women booked their place by winning the FIBA 3x3 Sponsor | Red Bull Champions Cup 2026 title, capping a dominant run with a 21-12 victory over Azerbaijan in the Final.
Led by tournament MVP Noortje Driessen, the Dutch team controlled the game from the outset, combining efficient scoring with defensive discipline. Their performance throughout the competition reinforced their status as one of the leading forces in international 3x3 basketball.
By lifting the trophy, the Netherlands secured a direct place in the Olympic qualifying pathway, placing them firmly on track toward LA28.
Spain men capitalize on opportunity
In the men’s competition, Spain secured their spot in the Olympic qualifying pathway after finishing second overall.
While the United States claimed the FIBA 3x3 Sponsor | Red Bull Champions Cup 2026 title with a 19-14 win in the Final, their status as hosts of the LA28 Olympic Games means their qualification slot is already secured.
As a result, Spain, who had an improbable run to the proverbial podium, move into the Olympic qualification pathway, benefiting from their runner-up finish.
Led by Iván Aurrecoechea and Guim Expósito, Spain showed balance on both ends of the court, defeating Netherlands in the Men's Semi-Final to reach the Final and position themselves among the top contenders for a spot in LA28.
Early momentum
The FIBA 3x3 Champions Cup continues to play a key role in shaping the international 3x3 basketball landscape, having offered teams an early opportunity to secure advantages in the Olympic cycle.
With the Netherlands (women) and Spain (men) now confirmed in the Olympic qualifying pathway, the focus shifts to upcoming competitions that will further define the road to Los Angeles.
The journey to LA28 is just beginning, but for these two teams, an important first step has already been taken.
FIBA