UTSUNOMIYA (Japan) – The FIBA 3×3 World Tour Utsunomiya Opener 2026 delivered a strong start to the new season, with Liman (SRB) claiming the title and setting the early pace on the global 3×3 basketball circuit.

From dominant runs to emerging contenders and standout individual performances, here’s what we learned from the season-opening event.

Liman send early statement

Liman wasted no time establishing themselves as a contender in 2026.

They combined control, efficiency and shot-making throughout the tournament, culminating in a 21-15 win over Skyliners (GER) in the Final. Their most decisive moment came in the Quarter-Finals, where they dethroned defending champions Miami (USA), 20-8.

The performance signals that Liman are ready to challenge consistently at the top of the World Tour this season.

Milutinovic leads from the front

Tournament MVP Andreja Milutinovic was central to Liman’s success.

He delivered across all stages of the event, finishing with 33 total points and ranking second overall in player value. His ability to score in bursts and control key moments gave Liman a consistent edge.

In a format where momentum shifts quickly, Milutinovic’s composure stood out.

Challenger form translates for Skyliners

Skyliners (GER) continued their upward trajectory after winning the Hengqin Challenger.

They carried that momentum into Utsunomiya, going unbeaten on Day 1 and advancing to the Final despite an injury to Leon Fertig in the knockout stage.

Their run highlights the growing connection between Challenger success and World Tour competitiveness.

Of course, everyone hopes Fertig will have a full recovery as soon as possible.

Amsterdam respond, but questions remain

Amsterdam RABOBANK (NED) bounced back from a difficult Hengqin Challenger outing to go unbeaten in pool play and reach the Quarter-Finals.

Led by Maarten Bouwknecht, they showed improved rhythm and structure, but their loss to Antwerp (BEL) in the knockout stage underlined the fine margins at this level.

The foundation is there for the Dutch side, but consistency will be key moving forward.

Ub still the benchmark under pressure

Top seed Ub (SRB) advanced to the Semi-Finals but were tested throughout the event.

They edged close games in pool play and showed control in their Quarter-Finals win over Shanghai (CHN), but were unable to convert their run into an appearance in the Final.

Still, despite falling short of winning WT Utsunomiya this year, Ub remain the reference point for consistency and structure on the FIBA 3×3 World Tour.

Depth of field continues to grow

The tournament once again highlighted the increasing depth across the 3×3 basketball landscape.

Teams like Antwerp and Raudondvaris Hoptrans (LTU) delivered strong performances, while Shanghai showed competitiveness against higher-seeded teams.

With close games across all pools and knockout rounds, the margin between teams continues to narrow.

Utsunomiya delivers milestone edition

Beyond the competition, the event marked key milestones for the host city.

Utsunomiya celebrated a decade of hosting 3×3 basketball and the 130th anniversary of the city, reinforcing its role as one of the most established stops on the FIBA 3×3 World Tour.

Strong fan support and a consistent event setting once again provided a fitting stage for the season opener.

Season narrative begins

With the first stop complete, early storylines are already taking shape.

Liman have set the pace, emerging teams have shown they can compete, and established contenders remain in the mix.

As the FIBA 3×3 World Tour 2026 continues, Utsunomiya has once again provided a clear starting point for the season ahead.

FIBA