The FISU University World Cup 3×3 Basketball – Brasília 2025 came to an end last Sunday (16) with packed stands, a vibrant atmosphere of sporting celebration, and games decided by the smallest margins at the arena set up on the grounds of the TV Tower. Over three days, the landmark in the heart of Brazil’s capital attracted residents, tourists, and visitors from across the country, who watched university teams from all over the world compete up close.
By the end of the tournament, Canada and Lithuania secured the titles in the women’s and men’s categories, respectively, closing a weekend marked by tight matchups and strong public participation.
Carleton University takes the women’s 3×3 title
In the women’s competition, Carleton University from Canada claimed the championship after an unstoppable run throughout the tournament. In the final, they defeated Vasyl Stefanyk University from Ukraine by 16 to 11, finishing their campaign to loud applause from the crowd.
“We’re so excited, thankful, and proud to be here. Is’s been so fun to be here together, and we love each other so much, playing for each other really got us through the tough moments. We just love basketball, we wanna take it as far as we can! We are going back home and we have a whole season ahead of us, and we’re gonna do great”, celebrated the Canadian athletes.
The podium also included Uganda Christian University, from Uganda, who secured the bronze in 2025 after a series of defeats last year. “When we competed at the 3×3 World Cup last year, we lost all our games. So when we came back, we worked very hard,” said Tracy Namugosa, one of the team’s standout players. “I’m proud of myself, of my teammates, and of our university, Uganda Christian University. They really believe in us, and everyone back home is supporting us”.
Lithuania wins men’s title for the third time; Brazil takes silver
In the men’s competition, Vytautas Magnus University from Lithuania confirmed their status as favorites and lifted the trophy for the third consecutive time, reinforcing their dominance in university 3×3 basketball. The team faced the Brazilian men’s squad from Universidade Paulista (UNIP) in the final, closing the match at 21 to 12 for the Lithuanians.
The decisive game was marked by massive support for the Brazilian team: fans filled the arena and cheered nonstop from start to finish. The atmosphere at the TV Tower felt like a true grand final—shouts, chants, and excitement at every point, even against the strength of the European three-time champions.
“It was an incredible game. We fought until the very end to secure the win, but Lithuania is a very strong team. We want to thank the crowd for the support, and also the event’s organizers — everything was beautiful. We look forward to the next FISU University World Cup 3×3 Basketball, because next year we’re aiming for the gold medal!” said the Brazilian team.
The men’s bronze went to the University of Melbourne, from Australia, after a match against the University of Valencia, ending 21 to 12 for the Australians.For athlete Kai Garnaut, the tournament was a remarkable experience both on and off the court. “We’re very happy to be in Brazil. We played against incredible teams, and we loved getting to know new places and different countries. As Australians, we’re proud of our performance, but we’re also proud of being together. We’re a group of friends who loves to play”, said Kai Garnaut.
16 Nov
