First in Japan: FIBA 3x3 Challenger Held in Public Space in Shibuya/Ebisu

The General Incorporated Association Shibuya Future Design, in cooperation with Shibuya City, hosted the international 3x3 basketball tournament 'FIBA 3X3 SHIBUYA CHALLENGER 2026,' organized by the International Basketball Federation (FIBA), at the Ebisu Garden Place Center Square on April 18th (Sat) and 19th (Sun), 2026. A total of 3,500 people visited over the two days to watch world-class play up close.

This tournament was the first FIBA 3x3 Challenger in Japan to be held in an urban public space. As a symbolic effort towards realizing Shibuya City's '15km² playground' vision, it engaged the local community, schools, businesses, and visitors. The event turned the entire Shibuya and Ebisu area into a 'city-wide stadium' for two days.

Leading up to the tournament on April 17th (Fri), various community-focused activations were held. Teams from Belgium and Spain visited Shibuya Municipal Kakezuka Elementary School to interact with students. They shared lunch and played basketball together. At 7:00 PM the same day, a company free-throw competition was held at Ebisu Garden Place.

During the tournament, under the concept of 'the entire city as a stadium,' the 'MACHIGOTO SUSTADIUM Stamp Rally' was held in parks and streets near the venue, encouraging visitors to explore the city's public spaces. Antwerp from Belgium emerged as the winner.

The tournament served as a platform for new urban implementation that connects people, communities, businesses, and public spaces. Shibuya Future Design will continue to work on creating new urban value through sports and culture.