Red Bull Half Court in Abu Dhabi: UAE streetball stars aiming to take on the world in Manila

UAE streetball champions are set to compete against the world's top three-on-three basketball teams in Manila next month. The Red Bull Half Court UAE championships took place yesterday in Abu Dhabi, with the victorious team advancing to the global finals in Manila on December 4 and 5. Approximately 10,000 players from four continents participated in the event, showcasing their skills in this high-energy half-court version of basketball.

UAE teams advanced through rounds held at Uptown Mirdif Park, Um Suqeim, Marina Mall, and Al Jada Basketball Club in Dubai and Sharjah. The UAE national final is scheduled for Saturday, part of the BREDx Festival at Etihad Live, featuring both women's and men's finals at 7:45pm and 8:10pm, respectively. The world finals were previously held in Dubai in 2025, with games played on an LED court in front of the Museum of the Future.

The tournament format involves reaching 21 points, with games limited to 10 minutes. Since its inception in 2021, Red Bull Half Court has attracted players from 13 countries, with the talent growing increasingly competitive each year. Paul Gudde, Red Bull Half Court global sports director, stated that the event has become a world stage for this format rooted in street basketball culture.

NBA shooting coach Chris Matthews, the global ambassador for the event, added that the fast-paced nature of the game demands players to trust their skills and take confident shots from the first possession, rewarding those who remain composed under pressure and aren't hesitant to take big shots. In Dubai last year, Japan won the women's title, followed by Egypt, while Egypt also claimed the men's championship over North Macedonia.