Doha, May 27 (QNA) - The FIBA 3x3 U23 Nations League kicks off Wednesday at Al Gharafa Indoor Hall, hosted by the Qatar Basketball Federation in collaboration with FIBA. The tournament, running until June 3, features 12 teams—six in the men's category and six in the women's.

This event is part of Qatar’s promotional activities leading up to the 2027 FIBA Basketball World Cup, reinforcing the country’s commitment to international basketball growth and competitive excellence.

The participating teams include Qatar (host), New Zealand, Singapore, Indonesia, the Philippines, and Chinese Taipei, with squads divided into two groups per category, ensuring a strong competitive edge.

Qatar’s U23 men's team will compete in Group B alongside Singapore and Chinese Taipei, while Group A features New Zealand, the Philippines, and Indonesia. The women's competition mirrors this format, with Qatar joining New Zealand and the Philippines in Group A, while Singapore, Chinese Taipei, and Indonesia form Group B.

Men’s matches kick off with the Philippines facing New Zealand at 2:55 PM, followed by Qatar’s clash against Chinese Taipei at 3:45 PM. Other games include the Philippines vs. Indonesia (4:35 PM), Chinese Taipei vs. Singapore (5:35 PM), Indonesia vs. New Zealand (6:25 PM), and Qatar vs. Singapore (7:15 PM), culminating in the final at 8:15 PM.

The women’s competition begins with the Philippines vs. New Zealand at 2:30 PM, Qatar vs. the Philippines at 4:10 PM, and Qatar vs. New Zealand at 6:00 PM. Other matches feature Chinese Taipei vs. Singapore (3:20 PM), Chinese Taipei vs. Indonesia (5:10 PM), and Indonesia vs. Singapore (6:50 PM), with the final set for 7:50 PM.

The organizing committee confirmed that logistical and technical preparations are complete, in coordination with FIBA and international referees to ensure high tournament standards.

This league serves as a strategic milestone for Qatar Basketball Federation in expanding the sport’s local reach, offering young players global exposure, and preparing future generations for major tournaments.

The winner of the U23 FIBA 3x3 Nations League will secure direct qualification to the 3x3 Basketball World Cup, adding further stakes to the competition. (QNA)