Basketball Australia is set to take an exciting step forward in the 3x3 space with the launch of its first 3x3 Championships, an event designed not only to showcase talent, but to create meaningful, high-performance pathways for Australia’s emerging athletes.
This inaugural tournament carries genuine international significance. For players across both Under 17 and Under 23 divisions, the outcomes extend well beyond domestic results, offering direct access to some of the most prestigious opportunities in global 3x3 basketball.
For Under 17 athletes, the tournament represents a rare chance to compete for selection in the Australian team bound for the Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games (pending qualification). Becoming a Youth Olympian is a defining achievement in any sporting career, and this event provides a clear and tangible pathway to that milestone, rewarding performance, adaptability and competitiveness in the 3x3 format.
At Under 23 level, the stakes are equally compelling. The winning team will earn direct qualification to the Shibuya Challenger in April 2026, a key international event that sits on the pathway to the FIBA 3x3 Pro World Tour.
For Australian athletes, this presents an invaluable opportunity to test themselves against elite global competition and take a significant step toward the professional 3x3 circuit.
Beyond qualification outcomes, the tournament will also play a central role in shaping future national representation.
Performances at the event, alongside insights drawn from Basketball Australia’s expanding 3x3 database, will inform selection for the Australian U23 3x3 program ahead of the U23 3x3 World Cup 2026, reinforcing the tournament’s importance within the broader high-performance framework.
While the tournament does not offer traditional prize money, it is underpinned by a strong High-Performance commitment. Basketball Australia will provide comprehensive support for teams that qualify or are selected through these pathways, removing financial barriers and ensuring athletes can focus fully on preparation and performance in international competition.
“It’s going to be a fantastic event,” said Basketball Australia Major Events Manager Aurélien Bova.
“With so much on the line, we’re expecting a highly competitive environment that showcases the depth of 3x3 talent emerging across Australia.”
With clear pathways, meaningful opportunities and international outcomes on the line, this first national 3x3 tournament is set to be a high-stakes and highly competitive event.
It represents an important moment for the growth of 3x3 in Australia and a powerful platform for athletes ready to take the next step on the global stage.
