Three teams from China claim opening victories in FIBA 3x3 Xi'an Challenger

The FIBA 3x3 Xi'an Challenger 2025, a key event in the FIBA 3x3 competition system, tipped off Saturday in Xi'an, capital of northwestern China's Shaanxi Province, with three teams from the host nation securing victories.

A total of 16 teams from around the world took part in the competition, including Partizan of Serbia, Chongming of China, Kandava of Latvia, and other top-tier teams.

On the outdoor court at Shaanxi Gymnasium, all three Chinese teams -- Qinhuangdao, Shanghai and Chongming -- opened with wins. Chongming edged Bordeaux 16-15 thanks to Cameron Forte's long-range shot in the final two seconds.

Partizan standout Milos Supica praised the passionate local support, despite his team falling 21-15 to Shanghai in its second game of the evening.

"The spectators' passion impressed me with their enthusiasm for basketball," he said.

After the group stage on the opening day, the tournament will move to the knockout stage on Sunday, where the champion will be decided.

Alongside the competition, organizers staged a variety of Chinese intangible cultural heritage performances and activities, offering attendees the chance to engage with and experience Chinese culture.

"The performances and displays are great," said Mario Alvarez, a basketballer from Spain's Getafe club, adding that not only he, but many of the players, would gain a better understanding of Chinese culture through the tournament.