NBA 3X ABU DHABI an unparalleled success with legends LaMarcus Aldridge and James Worthy in attendance

The inaugural edition of NBA 3X ABU DHABI brought unparalleled excitement to the capital city from January 25 to 28.

Hosted by the NBA in collaboration with Sport360X, the four-day event showcased the thrilling world of 3x3 streetball, attracting 54 teams and over 200 players from across the region.

The presence of NBA Legends LaMarcus Aldridge and James Worthy ensured the event was a memorable one, along with ADQ COO Anas Al Barguthi, who also presided over the closing ceremony.

Throughout the tournament, a total of 89 games were fiercely contested, captivating audiences with fast-paced action and unparalleled skill. Divided into four categories – Youth Girls (Under 18), Youth Boys (Under 18), Women (Above 18), and Men (Above 18) – the competition showcased the depth of talent and passion for basketball in Abu Dhabi.

Adding to the excitement, the Dunking Devils graced the event with their electrifying performances, thrilling spectators with jaw-dropping dunks. Their presence, along with the mesmerising skills of the freestylers, contributed to the vibrant atmosphere that permeated the tournament grounds.

Two beloved NBA mascots, Franklin The Dog from the Philadelphia 76ers and Slamson The Lion from the Sacramento Kings, delighted fans with their energetic appearances, engaging the crowd and adding an extra layer of entertainment to the festivities. From interactive performances to distributing gifts, the mascots left a lasting impression on attendees of all ages.

Complementing the on-court action, NBA Fit Clinics provided valuable opportunities for aspiring young athletes to hone their skills under the guidance of Jr. NBA basketball coaches. Special Olympics clinics further underscored the event's commitment to inclusivity, with around 30 participants showcasing their abilities and spirit of sportsmanship.

The event also featured thrilling skill challenges and shooting contests, with 74 participants showcasing their individual talents and competing for top honours in their respective categories.

NBA 3X ABU DHABI exemplified the NBA's commitment to bringing the excitement of basketball to fans around the world.

Sport360X has been telling the Middle East’s very best sport stories for more than a decade across video, social, gaming and events. It boasts the narrative and creative skills, in Arabic and English, to produce market-leading content that builds affinity with fans and commercial partners alike.

Access is provided to more than 15 million followers on Sport360X’s native social media platforms, plus websites that generate more than 12m monthly page views.

Other regular events run since Sport360X was founded in 2010 include the Sports Industry Awards (SPIA) and FIT Awards.

More than 3,500 competitors enjoy Beach Run Festival presented by MG Motor

A successful seventh edition of Beach Run Festival presented by MG Motor witnessed more than 3,500 people descend on Dubai’s iconic Kite Beach to enjoy a carnival of sporting activities.

This annual event is organised by Sport360X, a leading digital publisher and sports consultancy agency in the MENA region. Support was provided by Dubai Sports Council and Dubai Municipality.

Thousands of competitors, of all abilities and ages, on December 10, 2023 tackled two distances – 7.2 kilometre Elite Run (timed) or 3.6km Fun Run. A bustling festival village featured hundreds of participants in hotly contested tournaments for Beach Basketball, Beach Football and Beach Volleyball.

ANOUAR EL GHOUZ, SOUFIANE DARDOUR, OMAR AL QUAHDANI, CHLOE TIGHE, LIZ VERHEYDEN and ALISA PETROVA names of Elite Run.

Beach Run Festival 2023 was held in association with Sports Mania DXB. Cari were gold sponsors, apparel was provided by Skechers and Mai Dubai kept thirsts quenched as official hydration partner.

Other sponsors included Al Bayader International, Curaprox, dnata Travel and Switch Foods.

“Beach Run Festival has grown into a landmark event on Dubai’s sporting calendar,” said Bassam Nawfal, Sport360X’s managing director.

“Sport is the passion which unites us all at Sport360X and it is fantastic to see thousands of like-minded people join us each year at Kite Beach. Our community ethos is exemplified by the fact Beach Run Festival has something on offer to competitors of all abilities and ages.

“I extend my thanks to everyone who took part, plus our valued sponsors and partners who help make these unforgettable events happen.”

In the male and female categories for Elite Run, Gold Winners received: Dh3,000 prize money and Recovery Ice Bath by Sub Zero. Silver winners received Dh2,000 and Bronze Winners Dh1,000.

Vita Home Spa (complimentary massage vouchers) and Eat Clean (complimentary meal plans) provided additional prizes to top-three finishers. Vouchers were presented by Al Bayader International, Curaprox and Skechers.

The vibrant festival village showcased a Red Bull DJ spinning the decks all day, plus an ice cream truck cooling competitors down after their runs. Fun activations, prizes and giveaways were on offer.

Qualified personal trainers led a variety of workouts and warm-ups. Competitors received an official race pack, including a T-shirt and goodies.

Sport360X has been telling the Middle East’s very best sport stories for more than a decade across video, social, gaming and events. It boasts the narrative and creative skills, in Arabic and English, to produce market-leading content that builds affinity with fans and commercial partners alike.

Access is provided to more than 15 million followers on Sport360X’s native social media platforms, plus websites that generate more than 12m monthly page views.

Other regular events run since Sport360X was founded in 2010 include the Sports Industry Awards (SPIA) and FIT Awards.

Off-Premises Co-League Companies Basketball Championship reaches semi-final stage

An exciting round of semi-finals awaits in the inaugural Off-Premises Co-League Companies Basketball Championship in Riyadh, launched by Sport360X and Sports Mania.

This tournament is organised under the supervision of the Saudi Basketball Federation, featuring eight teams divided into two groups:

Group A: Smokey Beards – Kia Al Jabr – Man Enterprise – MENA BIG

Group B: Unigaz – Nurve Partners – Reframe – SkillZ8

The teams competed within each group, and the match-ups for the quarter-finals were determined by the first-round standings.

MENA BIG managed to defeat Nurve Partners, while on the other hand, SkillZ8 won against Kia Al Jabr.

In the third tie, Reframe secured a spot in the semi-finals after winning against Man Enterprise. Unigaz KSA defeated Smokey Beards.

In the semi-finals, MENA BIG face Unigaz KSA and SkillZ8 encounter Reframe.

Off-Premises Services is the tournament’s official sponsor. Special thanks are extended to tournament supporters: We Clean 966, The Clinic, StepAhead, and Berain.

Sport360X has been telling the Middle East’s very best sport stories for more than a decade across video, social, gaming and events. It boasts the narrative and creative skills, in Arabic and English, to produce market-leading content that builds affinity with fans and commercial partners alike.

Access is provided to more than 15 million followers on Sport360X’s native social media platforms, plus websites that generate more than 12m monthly page views.