All we learned from FIBA 3x3 World Tour Macau Masters 2023

MACAU - The first-ever Macau Masters on July 8-9 was spectacular as the FIBA 3x3 World Tour arrived in style to a glitzy new destination.

Let's look back at an incredible two days of action.

Ub Huishan NE remain unbeatable 

Four Masters, four titles. Just like last year, Ub Huishan NE (SRB) have completely dominated the start of the World Tour season. 

Even without legendary Dejan Majstorovic, Ub had no trouble as they ran through the competition in an unbeaten display. 

Majstorovic's replacement Vladimir Dordevic fit in seamlessly as he continually bulldozed his way to the rim. 

MVP Marko Brankovic, however, was the star as the classy left-hander led player value (36.6) and topped overall scoring (34). 

Most impressively, Ub showed no signs of fatigue in the steamy conditions even though they were playing their fifth event in the last three weeks. 

Their fitness levels are supreme while Ub's passion is unwavering. It all means that Ub remain the undisputed kings of 3x3. 

 

Ning Zhang continues to thrive with Liman

Ning Zhang was electric in his Masters debut as he stole the show for powerhouse Liman, who made the final in their first stop on the World Tour this season. 

The Chinese player was a fan favorite and he didn't let the fans down as he constantly powered his way to the paint.

He had a monster semi-final performance against Ulaanbaatar MMC Energy (MGL) with a triple-five of 11 points, 6 rebounds and 5 highlights. 

The 26-year-old is an emerging star and his strong performances on the pro circuit so far this season has helped Liman remain a powerhouse. 

 

Ulaanbaatar's never say die attitude

The craziest moment in Macau? It just has to be when Marko Dugosija hit an insane Maurice Lacroix buzzer beater in Ulaanbaatar MMC Energy's unbelievable quarter-final upset of title fancies Miami. 

The celebrations were epic and it was fitting for Ulaanbaatar, who impressively made the semi-finals as a qualifier with sniper Steve Sir hotter than Macau's weather.

Ulaanbaatar seemed to finally run out of gas against Liman in the semis only to stage a late comeback before ultimately falling short.

But they should be proud of their efforts as they inch closer to a first-ever Masters title.

 

Fredette doesn't disappoint in World Tour debut

It may have ended in heartbreak, but former NBA player and college phenom Jimmer Fredette still provided several highlights for his loyal legion of fans.

Fredette lived up to the hype first up with a flawless performance against Raudondvaris Hoptrans (LTU), where he had 10 points on perfect shooting and also dished out several pretty passes.

The 6ft. 2in (1.88m) Fredette appeared to be the hero against Ulaanbaatar MMC Energy in the quarter-finals when he drained a cold-blooded jumper to break the deadlock.

A final twist prematurely ended Miami's campaign, but we just know that bitter defeat will make Jimmer Fredette even more determined next time he steps on the half-court.

 

Grabo wins insane dunk contest

Piotr Grabowski proved why he is one of the best dunkers on the planet after claiming the Chooks dunk contest.

But it wasn't easy with 'Grabo' locked in an epic battle with Hexu Li in a dunk contest for the ages.

They kept outdoing each other, taking the contest to new heights as the fans went crazy.

You have to watch it - even if you saw it live. Just click below and enjoy. 

 

Macau is an amazing new 3x3 destination

The wait was worth it with glamorous Macau proving a lit venue.

It was humid conditions at the venue just outside the world famous Wynn Palace with the hottest ticket in town being the first-ever Macau Masters.

The event was an amazing new addition to the World Tour and we can't wait to return.

FIBA