Egypt and Japan Crowned Champions as Red Bull Half Court World Finals Light Up Dubai


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The world’s fastest 3on3 basketball tournament delivered a spectacular finale in Dubai as the Red Bull Half Court World Finals unfolded beneath the futuristic glow of the Museum of the Future. Over two electrifying days, 30 teams from 18 countries clashed on a fully interactive LED court, thrilling a sold-out crowd with skill, speed, and streetball swagger.

Egypt claimed the men’s championship with a dominant 21–12 victory over North Macedonia in a high-energy final that showcased the pace and creativity synonymous with the Red Bull Half Court format. In the women’s division, Japan edged Egypt 9–8 in a tense and tactical showdown, securing their third title since 2022 and cementing their place as one of the competition’s most decorated teams.

Japan’s Kiri Endo was named the women’s FILA MVP. “I’m so happy to bring the trophy back to Japan. We’re so proud of our team,” she said. “We were having so much fun, and that made the win even more special.” On the men’s side, Egypt’s Mohamed Taha earned the FILA MVP honour and celebrated with gratitude: “I worked hard for this, but it was all about the team. The atmosphere was insane — the fans were going crazy. It felt like one big family in the stadium.”

Thousands of fans gathered at Jumeirah Emirates Towers Plaza, where the Museum of the Future served as a dramatic backdrop. The setting elevated the competition, transforming the open-air venue into a visually striking arena that blended architecture, culture, and sport, emphasising the event’s forward-thinking spirit.

 

Dubai’s identity pulsed through the tournament via six custom local-themed courts designed by a UAE-based artist. The interactive LED floor, infused with graffiti-inspired visuals and real-time game-responsive animations, turned every match into a vibrant visual spectacle, pushing the boundaries of how basketball can be experienced.

The Finals drew global basketball icons to Dubai. Streetball legend The Professor brought his signature flair, while Dušan Bulut, four-time World Tour Champion and Olympic medalist, added competitive pedigree. EuroLeague star Džanan Musa, now based in Dubai, applauded the event: “I didn’t expect this level of basketball and toughness. We saw some incredible games and I was really happy to witness them here in Dubai.” WNBA star Arike Ogunbowale also joined the crowd of 1,600 fans, saying, “All the games were super competitive and went down to the wire. If I’d warmed up already, I’d have loved to jump on the court.”

Dubai amplified the occasion with its own cultural flair. A dazzling drone show illuminated the skyline, Jet Suit World Champion Kalfon soared above the LED court, and Egyptian rap star Marwan Moussa delivered a high-energy performance that had the crowd erupting. Red Bull dancers, led by Vietnamese popping sensation MT POP, further heightened the energy with a dynamic showcase.

The tournament stayed true to Red Bull Half Court’s signature structure: three starters and one substitute, a 10-minute time cap or a 21-point limit, and the high-stakes “Own the Court” bonus for top-scoring teams in the group stages. The addition of two long-range three-point circles positioned behind the arc added tactical depth and fan-favourite highlight moments.

Since its 2021 debut, Red Bull Half Court has reshaped the global streetball landscape, hosting World Finals in cities like Rome, Cairo, Belgrade, and New York City. Dubai’s 2025 edition adds another bold chapter to the tournament’s evolution, continuing to fuse sport, creativity, and culture on a world stage.

All eyes now turn to 2026, when the Red Bull Half Court World Finals head to the Philippines — promising another unforgettable year for the global 3on3 community.

 

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