Filipino 3x3 hoopers vie for Red Bull Half Court Final berths

MANILA, Philippines -- The country’s finest 3x3 players take center stage for a chance to fly the flag high in the Red Bull Half Court Final in the United Arab Emirates in November.

Hundreds of squads both in the men’s and women’s divisions are expected to participate in the ultimate 3x3 streetball tournament with three regional qualifiers nationwide starting on August 30-31 in Davao City.

The Cebu leg follows suit on September 13 and 14 then the Manila stage on September 27-28.

Winners and podium finishers of each leg along with select wildcard squads slug it out in the national finals on October 8 for a seat in the world finale.

Unlike regular 3x3 tournaments though, Red Bull adds a spice with three-point shots instead of just two points from two special circles behind the arc.

Aside from champions, Red Bull will also recognize the team with most points in the entire tournament with “Own The Court” bonus that could help them advance in the final featuring over 20 participating countries including South Africa, Norway and Kosovo as first-timers.

“Year after year, Red Bull Half court continues to push the game forward. Seeing the sport grow in new countries and watching these athletes bring their best is truly special. I can’t wait to see who makes it to the World FInal in the UAE,” said renowned NBA shooting coach Chris "Lethal Shooter" Matthews, one of the minds behind Red Bull Half Court.

Filipinos aged 18 years old and above are eligible to join the tournament featuring 3-4 players each team along with a purchase of four cans from any 7-Eleven store as registration ticket to the Red Bull Half Court website.