DEQING (China) – Antwerp (BEL) secured their inaugural FIBA 3x3 World Tour stop title in 2026 by defeating Ub in a closely contested final, bringing an exciting weekend in Deqing to a close. This victory highlights the increasing competitiveness of the World Tour, with seven different teams having now claimed trophies this season and six stops remaining before the World Tour Final in Rio de Janeiro.

Read More

Antwerp's 2026 season had been marked by near-misses, but Deqing marked a turning point. The team had shown their potential by winning three Challenger stops earlier this season. After finishing second in their pool, they edged out Miami (USA) 21-18 in a tense Quarter-Final and then delivered a strong performance with a 21-10 Semi-Final victory over Vienna (AUT).

In the final match against Ub (SRB), Antwerp navigated a back-and-forth clash, making the crucial plays in the closing moments to win 21-17, securing their first World Tour stop title of the year.

Dennis Donkor emerged as the standout player, earning MVP honors for his exceptional performance throughout the tournament. He achieved a Player Value of 41.9, the highest in Deqing, and led the field with 42 total points and 16 two-pointers. Donkor made significant contributions in each knockout game, scoring eight points against Miami, ten in the Semi-Final against Vienna, and another eight in the Final against Ub, underscoring his vital role in Antwerp's success.

As of now, eleven stops into the 2026 season, the competitive landscape remains diversified. Baskets Bonn (GER) leads with three titles, while Liman (SRB) and Ub follow with two each. Miami, Hangzhou Jingwei (CHN), Amsterdam RABOBANK (NED), and Antwerp have each claimed one victory. Notably, several prominent teams, including Skyliners (GER) and Shanghai (CHN), are still seeking their first titles of the season.

With six World Tour stops left before the Final scheduled for December 12-13 in Rio de Janeiro, many teams have ample opportunity to shift the balance of power. The recent tournament in Deqing also coincided with the Chinese Moon Festival, enhancing its significance for the local 3x3 basketball community.

This second consecutive World Tour event in Deqing further establishes the city as a vital venue for 3x3 basketball. Antwerp's win is a reminder of the unpredictable nature of the current season, with the potential for more surprises as the action continues.