The exhilarating action at the FIBA 3×3 Asia Cup 2022

“Here’s the shot from far out…and it’s good!”

The same words by the commentator continued to echo around the Marina Bay Sands’ Event Plaza, where the International Basketball Federation (FIBA) 3v3 Asia Cup was in full swing from Jul 6 to Jul 10.

The regional basketball tournament, which held its fifth edition in Singapore, featured a record total of 30 men’s and 23 women’s teams from all across Asia competing to earn a spot at the 2023 FIBA 3×3 World Cup.

From seemingly inhuman feats on the court, to moments where the crowd went absolutely wild, here are some highlights from the FIBA 3v3 Asia Cup.

The venue was packed with spectators, whose exuberant cheers filled the air along with the music booming through the loudspeakers. The vibrant atmosphere was also amplified by the live commentary, which kept the crowd entertained throughout the day.

Among the crowd is 22-year-old Xu Jiachen, who shared that the feeling of being among the live crowd was truly unforgettable, as it offered a completely different experience as compared to watching games online.

He said: “This is my first time watching a FIBA game live, both for 3v3 and 5v5. It feels very different  from what I watch online. The whole atmosphere, with the emcee getting the crowd riled up, was really loud and enjoyable.”

The excitement from the games also captured the attention of many passer-bys and shoppers along the Marina Reservoir, who decided to stop by to watch the games unfold.

While the crowd may have cheered on each team that stepped onto the court, the support which they showed towards the Singapore team was like no other.

The Singapore women’s team, consisting of Wang Qing Chin, Choong See Ying Sara, Kai Ting Schermaine See and Heng Sew Ting Pauline, took on Indonesia and Philippines in the main draw stage of the tournament.

While they suffered defeat in both games and were subsequently unable to make it to the quarterfinals, 28-year-old spectator Peh Yong Sin believes that Singapore have still achieved a significant victory through its involvement in the FIBA 3×3 Asia Cup as this year’s hosts.

He said: “I think Singapore basketball has had a year of breakthrough, especially since the Singapore women’s basketball team represented the country for the first time at this year’s SEA Games.

“Now, with the 3×3 FIBA basketball at Marina Bay Sands, I believe that this sport can go even further here in Singapore with more fans and competitions to come.”

The Singapore men’s team, represented by Branson Tan, Mah Jun Hao, Lim Jun Yuan and Jovi Lim, were similarly unable to make it past the main draw of the tournament.

While they faced two Asian powerhouses in the Philippines and China, the team still put on a good fight, with plenty of stellar moments during the games that left the crowd in awe.

Some of the notable moments from the men’s games came from Singapore’s number zero, Jun Yuan, who constantly showed his tenacity on the court with his baseline drives and layups. 

Apart from the Singapore games, there were also plenty of thrilling match ups during the tournament which featured some of Asia’s best players.

For 20-year-old spectator Joshua Seah, the qualifiers game between New Zealand and Qatar was one the main highlights of his experience watching the tournament. 

He shared: “Everyone’s first impression was that New Zealand was a much bigger team and would dominate the game, but Qatar made everyone shocked by keeping the game tight with some really good shots and movement.”

Samuel, Joshua’s 16-year-old brother, added that his favourite moment of the tournament was one that took place in the game between Japan and Chinese Taipei.

He said: “My favourite part was when Chinese Taipei’s Kung-Hao Ting crossed up Japan’s Tomoya Ochiai to score a dunk. 

“When we watch NBA players on television doing dunks, we are already very amazed, so to see it happen in real time at an actual match is really an unforgettable experience.”

Entertainment options at the event also extended beyond the games, as several dance performances from groups such as the Slinger Girls were also held in between matches to keep spectators entertained.

On top of that, a Fan Village was also set up next to the tentage to let fans take part in several basketball-related fringe activities.

As it is not everyday that some of Asia’s best basketball players gather in Singapore to compete, the FIBA 3×3 Asia Cup 2020 was certainly an event that will stay in the memories of many fans.

Despite Singapore’s short-lived campaign in the tournament, the home crowd was still treated to some great games and captivating performances that added to the overall experience.