SINGAPORE – Singapore produced one of the biggest moments of the FIBA 3x3 World Cup Qualifier 2026 so far, stunning Brazil 15-13 in overtime to advance to Round 2 and keep their FIBA 3x3 World Cup 2026 dreams alive.
In a do-or-die clash in Women’s Pool B, the hosts showed resilience, composure and belief. They overcame a slow start and a mid-game deficit to deliver a statement win in front of their home fans at The Kallang.
Brazil looked in control early, racing to a 9-3 lead midway through the contest. However, Singapore refused to back down, chipping away at the deficit with timely buckets and relentless defense. With momentum building, the hosts clawed their way back to force overtime at 13-all.
In the extra period, it was Han XingYue who delivered the defining moment, knocking down a clutch two-pointer to seal the 15-13 victory and send the home crowd into delirious celebration.
Jermaine Lim Jia Ying, who led Singapore with 7 points, credited the team’s unity and trust for the comeback win.
"Speechless. Very happy," Lim said postgame. "We trusted in our team throughout. We were sharing the ball, and I think that’s what worked for us."
Singapore’s defensive effort also proved crucial, with players diving for loose balls and contesting every possession.
"Everyone was going for loose balls as much as possible... we just believed in each other," Lim added.
The hosts showed composure even in the decisive moments of overtime, sticking to their game plan and trusting their execution.
"We had a play to try to generate a two, then we just trusted our teammate to take the shot," Lim said of Han's game-winning two-pointer. "Whether it goes in or not, we trust her fully."
The victory marks a historic milestone for Singapore, who are debuting in the FIBA 3x3 World Cup Qualifier and now find themselves one step closer to a place at the FIBA 3x3 World Cup 2026 in Warsaw, Poland.
"It’s a great honor, now that we made it to the next round, it’s even more motivation for us to push even harder," Lim said.
Backed by a passionate home crowd, Singapore now head into Round 2 with belief and, more importantly, a chance to turn a dream into reality.
"The fans were great," Lim shared. "Even when we were tired, hearing them cheer made us feel like we had to do this for everyone watching."
FIBA