POL - 3x3 Championship in Lodz proof of basketball growth in Poland

LODZ (3x3) - The Polish Basketball Federation organised on Sunday 2 October its first ever 3x3 Basketball Championship in Lodz, Poland. A total of 16 teams and 64 players competed outdoors on the Main Square of the Manufaktura Centre.

Thousands of spectators attended this event, where the country's top 16 teams squared off. The contestants were previously selected during the summer through five qualifying tournaments held in various cities around the country.

The reaction from the spectators was unanimous, everyone thrilled at the quickness and emotion of the game.

"I think that as the organisers, we have presented a very attractive format of outdoor basketball." said Marek Maliszewski, marketing consultant for the Polish Basketball Federation.

Teams played a minimum of three games throughout the day providing an abundance of games to watch and superior level of play.  The winning team Gustowne Bryczesy was composed of: Maciej Austen, Jakub Danjuma, Pawel Pawlowski and Pawel Strychalski.

The Promoters had several challenges and concerns organising the tournament, mainly the weather was the major issue however they were fortunate to have sunshine throughout the day.

Siemens AGD was the proud official sponsor of this event. Thanks to their help and support the Championship showcased upgraded equipment as well as amusing side activities for the fans.

The Organizers offered the tournament players home and away replicas jersey from the Polish national team to wear during the games of the Championship.

With the Streetball events coming to an end in Poland, the federation have high hopes of becoming future FIBA partners for next year's upcoming 2012 season. Their goal is to hold a countrywide tour in 12 cities throughout the entire country from the months of May to June.

Basketball is ever growing in Poland, in the past two years they have hosted the Eurobasket for Men, Eurobasket for Women as well as the U18 European Championship for Men.


FIBA