Red Bull Half Court World Final Arrives in Dubai

Red Bull Half Court World Final Makes Its Dubai Debut as South Africa’s First-Ever Champions Prepare for Global Battle

The countdown is on. On 28–29 November, Dubai will welcome the Red Bull Half Court World Final for the very first time, hosting the world’s best streetball players in an action-packed 3on3 showdown. This year marks a milestone not only for the tournament, but for South Africa as well, with the nation’s first-ever Red Bull Half Court champions ready to fly the flag on the global stage.

This historic moment follows South Africa’s inaugural national finals, held in September at Wits University in Johannesburg. After intense qualifying rounds in Cape Town, Pretoria, and Durban, Mzansi finally crowned its first men’s and women’s winners — officially launching a new era of competitive streetball in the country.

Team South Africa Takes the Global Court

South Africa’s national champions will proudly represent Mzansi in Dubai:

Men’s Team – MBB Blue Soldiers

• Nino Dim
• Lebesa Selepe
• Neo Mothiba
• Rabbi Belolo-Lou

“We have just been crowned champions of the South Africa Red Bull Half Court and booked our ticket to Dubai! You only get one shot at this thing called life, so keep firing!”

Team captain Lebesa Selepe shared the excitement, saying:

Women’s Team – Hoop Hustlers

• Lauren Fredericks
• Monicah Tlou
• Khanyi Maphisa
• Liyabona Shannon Nondala

“We’re so excited to head to Dubai! I’m grateful to share this journey with such an amazing group of ladies; the experience is going to be incredible.”

Captain Lauren Fredericks added:

These squads will compete against elite teams from 18 basketball-driven nations, including Japan, the USA, the Philippines, Turkey, Egypt, Lebanon, and others. Among this year’s storylines is a unique one from North Macedonia, where two brothers are playing together on the same national team.

A World-Class Streetball Arena in the Heart of Dubai

This year’s finals will unfold outdoors at the stunning Jumeirah Emirates Towers Plaza, framed by the futuristic Museum of the Future. The custom-built urban arena promises a dynamic fusion of basketball, design, and city culture — perfectly suited to the global 3on3 scene.

A total of twelve women’s teams and eighteen men’s teams will compete, closing a competitive season that has spanned national tournaments across the globe.

A Court Like No Other: Interactive LED Floor Debuts

In a first for both the tournament and the sport worldwide, the 2025 World Final will introduce a groundbreaking Interactive LED Court Floor. The playing surface will respond to major moments with real-time art, graphics, and visual effects, creating a one-of-a-kind basketball atmosphere.

“The LED floor creates a completely new dimension for players and fans alike. It shows what’s possible when performance and creativity go hand in hand.”

Paul Gudde, Red Bull Half Court Global Sports Director, described the innovation as a major milestone:

Fans can also expect appearances from major names in the global basketball community, including:

• Arike Ogunbowale – WNBA and Dallas Wings star
• Dušan Bulut – Olympic medalist and four-time World Tour champion
• The Professor – internationally known for his streetball style and viral content

“It’s amazing to see so many elite women’s hoopers competing on the global stage. Red Bull Half Court is helping elevate the women’s game in a way that truly inspires the next generation.”

Ogunbowale summed up the excitement:

Game Format: Fast, Fierce, and High-Scoring

Red Bull Half Court follows FIBA-style 3on3 rules:

• 3 players plus 1 substitute
• 10-minute matches
• First to 21 points wins
• “Own the Court” bonus for the most dominant performers
• Special long-range scoring zones beyond the arc

The format ensures fast-paced, explosive matchups where every possession counts.

A New Era for South African Streetball

Supported locally by Fila, Spalding, and 5FM, South Africa’s first season of Red Bull Half Court proved that the country’s grassroots basketball scene is hungry, creative, and ready to compete.

Now, with MBB Blue Soldiers and Hoop Hustlers stepping into the global spotlight, South African streetball is entering a new and inspiring chapter — louder, prouder, and ready to take on the world.

Visit the Red Bull Half Court website for more information.