At Brooklyn Bridge Park’s Pier 2, you won’t find casual pick-up games. Instead, players engage in intense battles and get the job done. The air is filled with sweat and swear words, contrasting the beautiful view of Manhattan across the river. The canopies overhead hold the key to the work happening below, making it the epicenter of the 3×3 universe for the Red Bull Half Court World Finals.
Now in its fifth year, the Red Bull Half Court is hosting the World Finals at Brooklyn Bridge Park with 8,000 players from 21 countries competing for the championship title. Qualifiers from countries like Australia, Belgium, Egypt, India, and others will face off to determine the world champions.
The road to the finals for the USA starts with qualifiers for men and women on August 17 in Atlanta and New York City. Our women’s team is determined to make it to the US finals on October 18. The winning team from the New York City qualifiers will go up against the winners from Atlanta for a chance to compete in the World Finals on October 19-20.
In partnership with Project Backboard, Red Bull is introducing a new court design contest for a chance to unveil a new court at Brooklyn Bridge Park during the World Finals. Local designers and basketball fans have until September 1 to submit their designs, with the winning court chosen by a jury of NYC and basketball experts.
Last year’s World Finals saw Team Serbia and Team Egypt emerge as champions in thrilling games. This year, the competition is adding a new rule with a three-point shot to increase the tournament’s intensity.
As Team SLAM prepares for the competition, all eyes are on the City of Dreams. If you’re looking to compete for new honors or represent your city, there are still spots available. Sign up now to be a part of the action.
Photos via Red Bull.
