VIENNA, AUSTRIA — The FIBA 3×3 Europe Cup 2024, held from September 22-25, showcased the rising popularity of half-court basketball in Europe. The tournament, hosted in Vienna, saw the continent’s top teams compete fiercely for the championship.
Austria Makes History as Host
Austria, playing on home soil, made history by winning their first-ever Europe Cup. The team defeated Serbia, which had held the title since 2018, thanks to a standout performance from Nico Kaltenbrunner. Despite an early loss to the Netherlands, Austria bounced back by overcoming Spain and Lithuania. Kaltenbrunner, inspired by his newborn child, led Austria with 8 points, 5 rebounds, and 7 highlights in the final. His efforts, combined with support from Enis Murati, led Austria to victory and delighted their enthusiastic fans.
Spain Continues Success
Spain’s women’s team continued their success from the Paris Olympics, securing the Europe Cup title with an unbeaten run. Sandra Ygueravide and Vega Gimeno earned their second Europe Cup titles. Spain defeated Azerbaijan, Ukraine, Poland, and France to clinch the championship. Ygueravide was named MVP, finishing as the top scorer with 42 points, including a game-high 6 in the final.
Serbia and France Seek Redemption
Serbia, recovering from a disappointing Olympic campaign, nearly secured their sixth consecutive European title but fell short against Austria. Strahinja Stojacic’s return to form earned him a spot on the Team of the Tournament. France’s women’s team, also looking to rebound from Olympic setbacks, finished with silver. Marie-Eve Paget, the sole French Olympian in the tournament, delivered an impressive performance.
Lithuania and Netherlands Show Their Strength
Lithuania’s men’s team continued their strong performance with a bronze medal, reaching the podium in four of the last five Europe Cups. Aurelijus Pukelis and Titas Janusevicius were key players for Lithuania. The Netherlands’ women’s team, the defending champions, secured bronze after a narrow defeat in the semifinals. Janis Boonstra and Noortje Driessen led the Netherlands to their third consecutive podium finish.
Olympic Champions Face Challenges
The Netherlands’ men’s team and Germany’s women’s team struggled to replicate their Olympic success. The Netherlands, led by Paris MVP Worthy de Jong, were eliminated in the quarterfinals by Serbia. Germany also exited in the quarterfinals after a loss to the Netherlands. Elisa Mevius, Germany’s standout player, continued to impress despite the team’s early exit.
Vienna Emerges as a 3×3 Hub
Vienna is solidifying its reputation as a premier 3×3 basketball host. Following last year’s World Cup, the city delivered a thrilling Europe Cup at the Kaiserwiese. The passionate and vocal Austrian fans contributed to a vibrant atmosphere throughout the tournament.
The FIBA 3×3 Europe Cup 2024 reaffirmed Vienna’s status as a top destination for 3×3 basketball, and fans are eagerly anticipating future events in this historic city.
