The 3x3 world keeps turning

A great deal has changed since London 3x3 became the first debutant winner of the season on the World Tour, toppling Serbian giants Liman and Ub in the process.

That breakthrough victory set the tone for a turbulent end to the season that has shaken up expectations and thrown the race for the title wide open ahead of the Manama Final.

For Ub, the story has been unexpectedly difficult. Since their loss to London in Deqing they’ve struggled to rediscover the dominance that made them almost untouchable throughout the majority of the season. They have failed to reach a final in their last three World Tour stops, with a distant ninth place finish in Bucharest raising further questions about their form. With Manama approaching, the pressure is mounting. Unless they can re-summon their dominant form, their hopes of lifting the trophy appear uncertain.

Current number two ranked Amsterdam RABOBANK are headed on an opposite trajectory. After steady progression through the season, they finally broke through to claim their first World Tour win in Bucharest and they now look like a formidable contender. Will they be able to maintain this form or was it a one-off?

The Macau stop added even more unpredictability to the mix. Lugano produced a stunning underdog run reminiscent of London’s earlier triumph, going unbeaten and edging out Miami 21-20 in a dramatic final. Their rise is a reminder that the supposed hierarchy is less secure than it once seemed. Even teams like Ulaanbaatar, who haven’t hit their stride in the regular season remain convinced they can still leave Manama with the ultimate prize.

One of the quieter but equally significant developments came in Cangzhou, the final Challenger of the season. Vienna claimed the title, with Raudondvaris Hoptrans finishing runners-up and both having secured their spots at the Manama Final. Their convincing wins over experienced opponents such as Barcelona and Podebrady suggest they enter the finale with genuine belief that their late-season momentum can carry them deep into the tournament.

Meanwhile, the Abu Dhabi World Tour concluded with the usual contenders in the mix, but an unexpected champion in Skyliners. After a turbulent season, they emerged victorious in a surprise twist. If they can bring that level to Manama, their 12th seed ranking becomes irrelevant. They have shown they can beat anyone when everything clicks.

The final stretch of the FIBA 3x3 season has delivered drama, upsets and compelling storylines, setting up one of the most open and unpredictable finales in recent memory. With form swinging wildly and new contenders emerging, the stage is set for a thrilling showdown next weekend in Manama.

Who do you think will claim the crown?