HYDERABAD: One of the most prestigious 3×3 basketball tournaments in the world, the FIBA 3×3 World Tour Masters is coming to India for the first time on 22nd and 23rd September 2018 and the city is all set to host it.
It is similar to the format of the UEFA Champions League in football since participation will be seen from leading 3×3 teams across the globe and India’s top two 3BL teams – Delhi 3BL and Bangalore 3BL. The best international teams like Novi Sad (World #1), Piran (#3), Belgrade (#9) and more, along with top international players like Simon Finzgar (World #8), Anze Srebovt (#9) and Gasper Ovnik (#10) will be playing at the People’s Plaza in Hyderabad.
The qualification for Indian 3×3 teams was decided on the basis of the results of the inaugural season of 3×3 Pro Basketball League (3BL) which was held from 9 June to 26 August 2018 across six cities in India. The two leading teams – Delhi, which won five rounds out of six and Bangalore, which won one round.
Members of team Delhi are- Inderbir Gill, Bikramjit Gill, Leandro Souza de Lima and Kiran Shastri. Members of team Bangalore are- Sowkin Shetty, Amit Sehrawat, Rajan Sharma and Lalrina Renthlei.
Hyderabad Masters is the seventh stage of the FIBA 3×3 World Tour. The participating teams will compete for a chance to qualify for the FIBA 3×3 World Tour Bloomage Beijing Final on 27th and 28th October this year.
Speaking about the FIBA 3×3 World Tour Hyderabad Masters, Yoshiya Katoh, Chairman of 3BL said:
“India is getting a chance like never before – to host the FIBA 3×3 World Tour. Only nine other cities in the world have been the hosts in this edition. This is an opportunity for Indian basketball players to compete against the strongest opponents and improve their game. We are proud to be a part of this landmark moment.”
Rohit Bakshi, League Commissioner of 3BL said:
“One of my biggest dreams has been to see an Indian team win a medal at an international platform in 3×3 basketball. Team Delhi 3BL and Bangalore 3BL both have the potential to emerge at the top in Hyderabad Masters and qualify for the FIBA 3×3 World Tour Finals. Moreover, competing against international teams is only going to be improve their game and increase our chances for 2020 Tokyo Olympics.”
Vivek Krishna, Entertainment Director of 3BL also commented:
“The inaugural season of 3BL was a massive success with the Indian audiences. The sport is perfectly suited to our liking, with its entertainment and glamorous elements. At the FIBA 3×3 World Tour, Hyderabad Masters, it’s going to be even better with the best international players, dunkers and more.”
