The 8th Asian University 3×3 Basketball Championship wrapped up in Putuo District, Zhoushan on the evening of June 14 after a three-day run. The men’s title went to the men’s basketball team of Guangdong University of Technology, while Peking University claimed the women’s championship. Both champion sides are from China and will represent Asia at the upcoming FISU University World Cup 3×3 Basketball.
The men’s final delivered a breathtaking showdown between Guangdong University of Technology (GDUT) and Tsinghua University. Both teams hit their rhythm right after the opening tip-off. GDUT drew first blood, before Tsinghua quickly responded with a long-range shot. Powered by seamless teamwork, GDUT extended its lead to 7-4. Tsinghua regrouped promptly and lifted team morale with a powerful dunk. The two teams traded baskets fiercely afterwards, and the score was tied at 20 apiece when regular time expired, sending the game into overtime. In the extra period, GDUT sank a crucial three-pointer first and sealed a narrow 22-21 victory to lift the championship trophy.
The women’s final witnessed an intense clash between Peking University and Huazhong University of Science and Technology (HUST). HUST took the early lead, yet Peking University launched a swift counterattack. Peking University then nailed successive long shots to pull away on the scoreboard. HUST made timely adjustments and fought back hard to level the score at 15-15. In the decisive moments, Peking University relied on more fluid coordination to secure a 21-16 win and claim the women’s crown.
Serving as the Asian qualifier for the FISU University World Cup 3×3 Basketball, this championship granted direct berths to its men’s and women’s champions for the global event this year. A total of 23 teams comprising 13 men’s sides and 10 women’s squads from 9 Asian countries and regions took part in the tournament.
“I am quite familiar with Putuo, as this is my third visit here.” said Li Wenbo, a player from GDUT’s men’s basketball team, in high spirits after the final. “Local fans are incredibly enthusiastic and have given us tremendous encouragement. We set our sights on the championship from the start and kept pushing ourselves throughout the games, gaining valuable experience along the way.”
Li also spoke highly of Putuo and recommended the city. “The air is fresh and the scenery is stunning. All my previous trips here were packed with matches, so I have not had a chance to explore the city. I definitely plan to take a stroll around when I have spare time. Besides, the local seafood here is absolutely memorable.”
Apart from the thrilling basketball contests, Putuo arranged intangible cultural heritage experience activities for participating teams. Centered around visits and hands-on experiences at pastry manufacturers, these activities showcased the integrated strengths of local enterprises in inheriting traditional craftsmanship, developing modern food industry and protecting folk culture. Several team members also paid visits to local schools and interacted with students. The visiting athletes all praised Putuo for its profound cultural heritage and distinctive marine characteristics, adding that they would recommend this charming coastal city to more friends back home.
