A cartoonish event occurred. Hangzhou (China) has been crowned the champion of the Hongcheon Challenger 2025.
The 'NH Nonghyup Bank FIBA 3x3 Hongcheon Challenger 2025' kicked off with a splendid opening at the Hongcheon Comprehensive Gymnasium on the 9th. Organized by the Korean 3x3 Basketball Federation (KXO), Hongcheon County, and the Hongcheon County Council Sports Committee, this tournament is the first in the country to be held for three consecutive years.
In the finals on the 10th, Hangzhou (China) defeated Raudonvaris (Lithuania) 21-17, kissing the championship trophy. Hangzhou exhibited remarkable skill by competing with only three players after Goran Bidovic's ejection in the quarterfinals, ultimately winning the semifinals and the finals.
Hangzhou faced a setback in the quarterfinals when Goran Bidovic was ejected. According to tournament rules, if a player is ejected, the remaining players must continue the tournament with three players. This means the three players must play the entire duration without substitutions.
Despite competing with only three players since the semifinals, Hangzhou produced an upset by defeating Lifa 21-8. Starting with a 9-0 lead, Hangzhou did not allow a single reversal and achieved a complete victory.
Riding the momentum, Hangzhou took an early lead in the finals, going up 3-1. Filip Kaludorovic made a tip-in shot, earning an additional free throw. Hangzhou continued to lead 7-5.
As expected in a finals match, the physical contest was intense. It was so fierce that it resembled rugby more than basketball. With no substitutions, Hangzhou grew increasingly fatigued. Jiaugis made a dunk shot, earning an additional free throw. Raudonvaris took the lead 13-11 with a successful outside shot.
With 1 minute and 35 seconds remaining, the score was tied at 17-17. Kaludorovic scored a two-point shot. Ražič also made a dunk shot. Hangzhou took the lead 20-17, reaching match point. Kaludorovic ended the game with a jump shot.
As victory was confirmed, the Hangzhou players embraced each other with joy. Overcoming tremendous adversity made their victory even more heartwarming. Filip Kaludorovic, who made the winning shot in the finals, was selected as the tournament MVP.
[OSEN]