Team Singapore youth basketballers Karl Dahlén Phua and Liam Richard Arman Blakney share their journey, aspirations, and what it would mean for them to compete in front of a home crowd ahead of the FIBA 3x3 Asia Cup 2025
This is a feature article written by SportPlus.sg for Kallang Alive Sports Management. For more sports events, programmes and human stories of Singapore Sports Hub, visit the Singapore Sports Hub's 'Here to Play' website.
As the countdown begins for the FIBA 3x3 Basketball Asia Cup at the Singapore Sports Hub next weekend, the excitement in Singapore’s basketball community is palpable.
With the high-energy, fast-paced format growing in popularity, two young Team Singapore hopefuls, Karl Dahlén Phua and Liam Richard Arman Blakney, share their journey, aspirations, and what it would mean for them to compete in front of a home crowd.
Journey Into 3x3 Basketball
Both Karl and Liam picked up basketball in their early teens, initially playing other sports before fully committing to the game. For Liam, it wasn’t until secondary school that he started taking basketball seriously. “I only started playing 3x3 over the past year,” he says. “There were trials for the national team, I made it through, and that pushed my growth. It gave me a new level where I could improve as a player.”
Karl shares a similar experience. “I picked up basketball around 12 years-old, but it was only in secondary school that I really fell in love with the sport. I loved the grind, the opportunity to improve, and meeting new people.” After joining the national 3x3 training squad last year, Karl knew this was the next step in his development. “It’s been a great journey, and I’m just happy to keep playing.”
Role Models and Growth in the Game
When asked about basketball inspirations, Karl immediately names Kobe Bryant. “I don’t necessarily play like him, but I admire his work ethic and mentality. Hopefully, in time I can embody even a fraction of that.”
Liam credits his parents and teammates for shaping his career. “My parents have always pushed me to play sports, and my teammates push me to get better every day. I couldn’t ask for a better support system.”
Adapting to 3x3 Basketball
Transitioning from traditional 5-on-5 basketball to the fast-paced world of 3x3 is no easy feat. Karl acknowledges the challenges but believes in learning the right concepts.
“At first, it was a struggle, but it’s not rocket science. Anyone can play 3x3, but to play at a high level, you need to understand spacing and tactics. Concepts are crucial and sets apart the good players from the great players.”
Liam was quick to emphasise the physical demands of 3x3. “Stamina is key. The game is relentless, and you have to be sharp with the little details—setting screens differently, playing defense more aggressively. Thankfully, we have a great coach who has played at the highest level guiding us.”
Representing Singapore and Future Aspirations
For Karl, every opportunity to represent Singapore is a proud moment. “It doesn’t matter the scale of the tournament; wearing the national colours is an honour.”
Liam recalls a standout moment in last year’s U21 Asia Cup. “We beat Chile with only three players. That has to be my proudest 3x3 moment so far.”
With the upcoming FIBA 3x3 Asia Cup in Singapore, both players see the home crowd as a major source of motivation. “Playing in front of a crowd brings a different energy,” says Liam. “A big crowd changes everything.” Karl adds, “I imagine competing at the Singapore Sports Hub in front of family and friends is a completely different feeling. We would have more pride, play even harder, to show what Singapore is about, what we've worked on, and to show up for the home crowd.”
The Impact of High-Profile Basketball Events in Singapore
Hosting major events like the FIBA 3x3 Asia Cup is crucial for basketball’s growth in Singapore and the Singapore Sports Hub. “These tournaments attract people who might not even be basketball fans,” Karl points out. “They see a game, get curious, and that helps build interest in the sport.”
Liam is hopeful that Singapore can continue making strides in 3x3. “We want to show that Singapore can compete at a high level. Hopefully, one day, 3x3 will be one of the main sports here.”
Singapore Sports Hub: A Crucial Platform for National Athletes
As one of Singapore’s premier sporting venues, the Singapore Sports Hub plays a vital role in fostering athletic development and providing opportunities for local athletes. The state-of-the-art facilities, combined with the ability to host international competitions like the FIBA 3x3 Asia Cup, create an environment where Singaporean athletes can test themselves against top talents from around the world.
Karl acknowledges the significance of such a platform. “Having events like this at the Singapore Sports Hub pushes us to be better. The exposure, the atmosphere, and the level of competition are all crucial in our development as players.”
Liam agrees, adding, “The Sports Hub gives us the chance to showcase what we’ve worked for. It allows us to dream bigger, seeing that we can compete at home and hopefully on a global stage.”
By continuing to host major tournaments, the Singapore Sports Hub cements its place as a key contributor to the nation’s sporting future, inspiring both current and future generations of athletes to strive for excellence.
Advice for the Next Generation
As young athletes making their mark, Karl and Liam have valuable advice for aspiring basketball players. “Keep improving every day,” Karl stresses. “Whether it’s shooting, strength training, or conditioning—never stay stagnant.”
Liam’s advice is simple but powerful: “Just keep working. Wake up at 5 AM and go for that run. Hard work and passion will take you far, in basketball and in life.”
Looking Ahead
With the FIBA 3x3 Asia Cup set to electrify the Singapore Sports Hub from the 26 - 30 March 2025 at the OCBC Square, Karl and Liam are ready to take the next step in their journey, with Liam also selected to feature in this year’s tournament.
As they continue to develop their skills and push the limits of Singaporean basketball, one thing is certain—the future of 3x3 basketball in Singapore is in promising hands. #FIBA3x3 #mySgSportsHub
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