UTSUNOMIYA (Japan) – The race for the first title of the season is underway after a strong lineup of teams was confirmed for the FIBA 3x3 World Tour Utsunomiya Opener 2026, which will once again launch the new pro circuit season in one of 3x3 basketball’s most established host cities.
A total of 10 teams, which feature reigning champions, returning contenders and consistent performers, have already secured their places for the traditional season opener.
Elite field locked in
Leading the field is Ub (SRB), the FIBA 3x3 World Tour defending winners, who will aim to set the early pace in the 2026 season.
They are joined by fellow Serbian side Liman (SRB), maintaining the country’s strong presence on the global 3x3 basketball stage.
From the Americas, Miami (USA) return to Utsunomiya, hoping to win here for the third straight year, while Amsterdam (NED) bring proven pedigree and Olympic-level experience to the half-court.
Lithuanian team Raudondvaris (LTU), who are regular contenders on the FIBA 3x3 pro circuit, have also qualified, alongside Shanghai (CHN), who will reinforce Asia’s growing footprint in elite 3x3 basketball competition.
Germany’s Skyliners (GER) complete the core group after a breakthrough FIBA 3x3 World Tour 2025 campaign.
Completing the lineup are three teams who earned qualification by finishing inside the Top 10 of the FIBA 3x3 2025 ranking:
Toulouse (FRA)
Vienna (AUT)
Antwerp (BEL) — competing under a new identity after previously playing as Riffa (BRN)
Season launch
Held in Tochigi Prefecture, the Utsunomiya Opener has become a cornerstone event on the FIBA 3x3 World Tour calendar, known for its high-level competition and strong fan engagement.
As the traditional curtain-raiser, the event offers teams an early opportunity to secure ranking points and build momentum for the season ahead.
With top teams already confirmed, the FIBA 3x3 World Tour Utsunomiya Opener 2026 promises a fast start to the new season as the world’s leading half-court specialists return to Japan.
Additional teams, including qualification pathway winners, will be announced in due course.
FIBA