Colorado Springs, CO — April 30, 2025: The energy was electric as the 2025 USA Basketball 3X Nationals came to a spectacular close with four new national champions crowned in men’s and women’s divisions across youth and senior levels. The annual 3X3 basketball competition, hosted by USA Basketball, took place at the U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Training Center from April 26 to 28 and featured some of the country’s top talent.
The high-stakes tournament, part of USA Basketball’s mission to promote 3×3 basketball—a growing Olympic discipline—brought together elite athletes from across the United States to compete for national glory and possible international opportunities.
What Is the USA Basketball 3X Nationals?
The 3X Nationals is a prestigious tournament that determines the top 3-on-3 basketball teams in the U.S. for both men and women. Unlike traditional 5-on-5 basketball, 3×3 is faster, more physical, and relies heavily on teamwork and strategy. This format has gained global popularity since it became an Olympic event at Tokyo 2020.
Teams competing in the Nationals often qualify through regional events or are invited based on performance in the USA Basketball 3X Tour and other sanctioned tournaments.
2025 Champions: Men’s and Women’s Division
Men’s Open Division Champions – Team Drive Nation
Team Drive Nation, representing Dallas, Texas, emerged victorious in the Men’s Open Division, defeating Team Hoop Life 21-18 in a nail-biting final. Led by standout guard Marcus Holloway, the team used a mix of physical defense and quick perimeter shooting to secure the win.
“We’ve been training all year for this,” Holloway said. “Winning at this level means everything.”
This win not only earns them the title of 2025 USA Basketball 3X Nationals Champions but also puts them in contention to represent the U.S. in future FIBA 3×3 international events.
Women’s Open Division Champions – Team Lady Elite
In the Women’s Open Division, Team Lady Elite from Chicago dominated the tournament, going undefeated throughout all rounds. Their final game against Bay Area Queens ended with a score of 21-15, thanks to Sharice Williams, who led the team in points and rebounds.
Coach Dana Ricks credited the team’s chemistry:
“Our girls have been playing together since high school. This win is a result of hard work and unity.”
Youth Division Winners: Next Generation of Stars
Men’s U18 Champions – Team Rising Ballers
In the U18 Men’s Division, Team Rising Ballers from Atlanta shocked the crowd by beating top-seeded Team West Coast Heat 20-17. Their aggressive transition game and hustle made them crowd favorites.
Point guard Chris “CJ” Thompson, only 17, caught the attention of college scouts in attendance.
“It’s surreal,” Thompson said. “Winning this means we’re one step closer to representing Team USA.”
Women’s U18 Champions – Team Future Stars
For the U18 Women’s Division, Team Future Stars from New York City took the crown. They edged out Team Texas Flames 19-17 in a gritty, defensive-heavy final. Coached by former WNBA player Latasha Green, the team showed maturity and composure beyond their years.
“This generation is the future of women’s basketball,” said Green. “And the future is bright.”
Why This Event Matters
The USA Basketball 3X Nationals is more than just a tournament. It serves as a critical scouting ground for selecting players for:
- FIBA 3×3 World Cup
- Pan American Games
- Future Olympic squads
The format is especially popular among younger athletes because it encourages speed, creativity, and intense competition. It also helps players build core skills needed in both professional 3×3 and 5×5 formats.
More on 3×3 international competition:
FIBA 3×3 Basketball Explained
What’s Next for the Champions?
Teams like Drive Nation and Lady Elite will now enter the USA Basketball 3X Training Pool, a group of elite players considered for international competition. They may represent the U.S. in the upcoming FIBA 3×3 World Tour and other international events.
Youth division winners are expected to participate in the USA Basketball Junior National Team program, which prepares players for both collegiate and Olympic-level competition.
Highlights from the Event
- Over 50 teams competed in different brackets.
- Held at the state-of-the-art U.S. Olympic Training Center.
- Live-streamed on YouTube and USA Basketball’s social media platforms.
- High attendance from scouts, fans, and Olympic staff.
Full event recap:
USA Basketball 2025 3X Nationals Official Recap
Community and Culture
Beyond competition, the event included:
- Free youth basketball clinics
- Coaching workshops
- Meet-and-greet sessions with former Team USA Olympians
- Panels on college recruitment and athlete development
The 2025 3X Nationals emphasized not only athletic excellence but also community engagement, mentorship, and youth empowerment.
Final Thoughts
With 3×3 basketball becoming a staple in both Olympic and grassroots sports, the 2025 USA Basketball 3X Nationals offered an exciting glimpse into the future of American basketball. This year’s champions earned more than just trophies—they stepped into a new league of opportunity, recognition, and potential international glory.
As USA Basketball continues to develop this fast-paced format, fans can expect even more exciting tournaments and rising stars in the years to come.
For more on USA Basketball’s 3X programs and upcoming events:
Visit USA Basketball’s 3X3 Central
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