(FILA Luxembourg S.a.r.L.). FILA is really proud to have been part of the Red Bull Half Court 2023 Tournament that wrapped up in Belgrade with an amazing spectacle that combined sport, art and history.
Last weekend on September 16th and 17th in the historic location of Kalemegdan Park in Belgrade (Serbia), in front of 2.500 spectators, numerous international and national media representatives, creators and influencers, Team Serbia has emerged as the men's team winners against Team Poland, securing his second victory in the last three World Finals, while Team Egypt has secured the women’s championship title against Team Japan, former champions of the competition.
FILA, as the tournament's global apparel partner for the entire season, has provided the full kit for players, referees, and staff, and has proposed an outfit designed specifically for the final with a texture inspired by the graphics created by street artists and brothers Nikola and Nenad Radojčić from Serbia, who refurbished two courts inside the majestic fortress of the 15th century making the event location an innovative piece of art with elements of basketball history and Belgrade’s monuments. Each tank top has also been enriched by the presence of the nation’s flag on the right shoulder.
To further enhance the presence of the brand, FILA has also personalized the MVP trophy, the coveted award assigned by a special commission. Nikola Mihajlovic (Serbia) has been crowned male FILA MVP of the tournament while Hager Amer (Egypt) has been named female FILA MVP.
The event has made a significant media impact, bolstered by the presence of renowned athletes and ambassadors who have left an indelible mark on the world of 3X3 basketball. Among them Dusan Bulut, pride of Serbia and a true 3X3 legend, Chris "Lethal Shooter" Matthews, Team USA’s mentor in the art of shooting, and Nadine Seelawi, basketball pro and star athlete on the Egyptian team.
The Red Bull Half Court World Final 2023 was not just a celebration of the present but a glimpse into the future. As the world now eagerly awaits the next chapter; today has been announced that the Red Bull Half Court World Final 2024 will be hosted in New York City.
"We're so happy with our team's performance, as the game was really tough, literally for every basket. This is a really special moment and special feeling for us playing in front of our home crowd. But we didn't feel any pressure. It was delightful to be representing Serbia", told Nikola Mihajlovic.
“I’m super proud of the team, it was perfect,” said Hager Amer. “It’s such an honour being here and winning the title. I enjoyed every minute of this tournament. 100 years of basketball in Serbia, the atmosphere here was actually crazy.”
“These athletes are great, that’s why they’re here. To represent their countries, they are the best of the best,” said Chris ‘Lethal Shooter’ Matthews about the level of competition on display in Red Bull Half Court. “I train NBA players and WNBA players, and there is no fall off here. This is a top-notch player lineup. Shout out to all the countries participating here.”
“The court design here in Kalemegdan Fortress is absolutely beautiful,” said Dušan Bulut, Serbia’s 3x3 legend from Novi Sad, who is widely considered as the greatest 3x3 basketball player of all time. “So colorful and bright. I’m actually a fan of the two brothers and know them from their early days as graffiti artists. The concept of refurbishing the court is simply great. After the tournament, people will come back and get inspired by this court and will share their passion for basketball.”
For a detailed account of key moments, highlights, pics and the award ceremony of the 2023 champions, please visit www.redbullhalfcourt.com