FIBA 3x3 World Cup 2025: China’s Basketball Teams Face Tough Groups in Mongolia – Tactical Preview

FIBA 3x3 World Cup 2025: China’s Uphill Battle in Mongolia

The FIBA 3x3 World Cup is set to light up Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia, from June 23-29, and China’s national teams have their work cut out for them. As a sports analyst who thrives on dissecting high-octane basketball, I’m breaking down the groups, schedules, and tactical challenges ahead.

Tough Draws for China

Men’s Team (Group C): France, Austria, Puerto Rico, Canada.

China’s men face a brutal group—France is a powerhouse in 3x3, while Canada’s physicality will test their defense. My data models give them a 38% chance of advancing, but surprises happen in this chaotic format.

Women’s Team (Group A): Poland, Italy, Australia, Madagascar.

Easier on paper, but Australia’s WNBL talent looms large. Poland’s precision shooting could be a problem too. Still, I’d rate China’s women at 65% progression odds.

Tournament Structure: Speed Wins

• Days 1-4: Round-robin group stage (top 3 advance).
• June 27: Knockout rounds for 2nd/3rd-place teams.
• June 28-29: Quarterfinals to finals.

In 3x3, endurance matters as much as skill. Teams playing late-stage games could log 6+ matches in 48 hours. Fatigue analytics suggest squad depth will decide medals.

Why Mongolia Matters

This is Asia’s first 3x3 World Cup since 2019. The outdoor courts in Ulaanbaatar add wind variables—a nightmare for shooters. Expect lower scoring than usual (my projection: 15-18 pts/game avg).

Prediction: Serbia’s men and France’s women remain favorites, but watch for China’s women as dark horses. Their guard play could steal a semifinal spot.

Your take? Drop your predictions below or tweet me @HoopsAnalyst with #3x3WC.