SUKHBAATAR (Mongolia) – The race for precious World Tour tickets heats up as the FIBA 3x3 Sukhbaatar Challenger 2026 tips off on June 23-24 at the iconic Sukhbaatar Square.
The eighth Challenger of the season features a loaded field packed with established contenders, rising forces and elite talent all chasing one goal: the top three teams earning qualification for the FIBA 3x3 World Tour Lausanne 2026.
Leading the charge is powerhouse Liman (SRB), one of the most accomplished teams this season. The Serbian side arrive with plenty of firepower, including superstar Stefan Milivojevic, who remains one of the most dynamic scorers on the circuit.
Home fans will have plenty to cheer about as Ulaanbaatar MMC Energy (MGL) look to make a statement on their own court. Spearheaded by recent FIBA 3x3 World Cup champion Nauris Miezis, the Mongolian outfit will be eager to capitalize on home support and continue their rise among the sport's elite teams.
Shinagawa CITY EXE (JPN) also enter as a serious contender. With the experienced Tomoya Ochiai leading the way, they have consistently proven capable of competing with the best teams on the FIBA 3x3 Challenger circuit.
Several other dangerous squads are capable of making deep runs. Cibona (CRO) arrive with talented playmaker Roko Spaseski, while Christchurch BBNZ (NZL) will rely on the scoring and versatility of FIBA 3x3 Asia Cup 2026 MVP Te Tuhi Lewis. Spain is represented by both Barcelona (ESP) and Fuengirola (ESP), with the latter boasting prolific scorer Jose Blázquez.
Taipei WanBao (TPE) continue to be one of the most exciting teams to watch and will once again lean on veteran bucket-getter Mike Efevberha. Meanwhile, Kaunas VDU (LTU) bring additional quality to the field with rising Lithuanian talent Rokas Jocys expected to make an impact. Every possession will matter as teams battle for supremacy and the opportunity to extend their FIBA 3x3 World Tour campaigns.
With proven winners, emerging contenders and some of the game's biggest stars all converging in Mongolia, fans can expect two days of high-level action and intense competition. Following the FIBA 3x3 Sukhbaatar Challenger, the city will also host the FIBA 3x3 Women's Series and FIBA 3x3 World Tour Ulaanbaatar 2026.
Qualifying Draw
Qualifying Draw A: Los Angeles (USA), Terelj (MGL), Sejong (KOR) Qualifying Draw B: Kaunas VDU (LTU), Kharkhorum (MGL), Kathmandu (NEP)
Main Draw
Pool A: Liman (SRB), Sansar M Bank (MGL), Shinagawa CITY EXE (JPN) Pool B: Ulaanbaatar MMC Energy (MGL), Cibona (CRO), Christchurch BBNZ (NZL) Pool C: Barcelona (ESP), Taipei WanBao (TPE), QD A Pool D: Fuengirola (ESP), Shinjuku SS (JPN), QD B
Race to Lausanne
Set in the heart of Ulaanbaatar, the iconic Sukhbaatar Square will once again provide a spectacular backdrop for world-class 3x3 basketball. Known for its energetic crowds and unique atmosphere, the venue has become a favorite stop on the FIBA 3x3 Challenger circuit.
The competition will be fierce with three coveted spots at the FIBA 3x3 World Tour Lausanne up for grabs. Expect high-intensity action from the opening tip as teams chase qualification and a chance to shine on one of the premier stages in 3x3 basketball.
FIBA