Olympic gold medalists Netherlands and Germany face early tests at FIBA 3x3 Europe Cup

VIENNA (Austria) - Paris Olympic gold medalists Netherlands (men's) and Germany (women's) face early tests at the FIBA 3x3 Europe Cup 2024 on August 22-25. 

The ninth edition of the continent's biggest event will be played in Vienna, Austria's historic capital which memorably hosted last year's World Cup.  

In the men's, No.3 seed Netherlands boast three Olympic gold medalists with MVP Worthy de Jong joined by sniper Arvin Slagter and big fella Jan Driessen.

The Dutch Masters will need to refocus because host Austria and Azerbaijan loom as formidable opponents. 

Five-time defending champion Serbia are looking to continue their remarkable run in the tournament, having won every title since 2018. And the powerhouse will be aiming to shrug off a disappointing Paris 2024 after Serbia were eliminated at the play-in stage. 

Superstar Strahinja Stojacic and Marko Brankovic will be determined to bounce back after underperforming in Paris. 

The No.1 seed face rising teams Germany and Spain in Pool A. 

No.2 seed Lithuania should be inspired after winning an emotional bronze medal in Paris. Only scoring machine Evaldas Dziaugys remains from that line-up, but he'll be well supported by gunner Marijus Uzupis. 

They will battle Switzerland and Croatia in Pool B. 

Olympic silver medalist France will showcase their depth of talent as ballers Paul Djoko and Raphael Wilson get their chance to represent Les Bleus. They face a rematch with Latvia after winning an epic semi-final in Paris. 

Great Britain will be determined to make sure it is not just a two-horse race. 

In the women's draw, Germany will aim to continue the momentum from their incredible feats from Paris.

Young star Elisa Mevius enjoyed a breakout on the big Olympic stage and she gets her chance to play the leading role as the No.2 seed tackle Romania and Poland in Pool B. 

Top seed France will be aiming for a tonic after a bitterly disappointing Olympic campaign on home soil.

They've freshened the team, but star Marie-Eve Paget will still be stinging from the hurt and she'll be pumped-up to put her best foot forward as France play Italy and Ukraine in Pool A. 

Olympic silver medalist Spain will be upbeat - especially dynamic duo Gracia Alonso De Armino and Juana Camilion, who remain hungry for much success.  

Last year's finalist will play Azerbaijan, who boast three Olympians, and Austria in Pool C. 

Defending champion Netherlands highlight Pool D and are led by Noortje Driessen, who is out for back-to-back MVPs. The Dutchwomen face Hungary and Latvia to start their title defense. 

FIBA