The UAE capital’s Corniche will once again play host to the world’s best 3x3 basketball players ABU DHABI: The Abu Dhabi Sports Council has announced the FIBA 3x3 World Tour Abu Dhabi will take place Oct. 26-27 at a specially built arena along the UAE capital’s Corniche, with some of the world’s best players — including recent Paris Olympic medalists — competing for vital ranking points and medals. For the latest updates, follow us @ArabNewsSport The FIBA 3x3 World Tour Abu Dhabi will feature a prize fund of $160,000, with $40,000 awarded to the champions, $30,000 for the runners-up, and $22,000 for the third-place team. The Paris Olympics saw the Netherlands clinch gold, and the dynamic Dutch players will be making their way to Abu Dhabi this October. Furthermore, FIBA 3x3 icons Team Ub from Serbia will bring their seasoned skills back to the capital, alongside the likes of team Vienna, Hangzhou and Ulaanbaatar MMC Energy. The final list of teams is still under process due to qualification. The 3x3 format, known for its simplicity and pace, has grown in popularity since its Olympic debut, but has flourished in the UAE in recent years under the ADSC’s development. Aref Hamad Al-Awani, general secretary of the Abu Dhabi Sports Council, emphasized the city’s readiness to host this international event. “We are excited to bring the FIBA 3x3 World Tour back to Abu Dhabi, particularly after the remarkable display of 3x3 basketball at the Paris Olympics. The sport’s rapid growth has been impressive, and we are confident that this tournament will further enhance its reputation, as we offer a thrilling and secure experience for both players and fans,” he said. The Abu Dhabi leg of the World Tour season will feature 14 international teams, alongside a local team from the ever-popular QUEST Community Championship. This Community Championship continues throughout the year, culminating with the winning team earning the right to represent Abu Dhabi at the main event on Oct. 26-27. Ignacio Soriano, 3x3 head of events at FIBA, said: “Our partnership with this city and its sports leadership has flourished for nearly a decade now, solidifying Abu Dhabi as the ideal host for world-class 3x3 basketball. We eagerly anticipate our return to the capital and are confident that the Abu Dhabi event will once again radiate the vibrant energy that perfectly aligns with our organization’s vision.”