Davon Dillard who won the MVB in Stage 6 of the 3x3.EXE Premier Vietnam 2025 helped SaigonHeat.EXE won the title. Photo courtesy of VBA

HCM City — Saigon Heat.EXE bounced back from a disappointing Stage 5 to win Stage 6 of the 3x3.EXE Premier Vietnam 2025, held on April 17, thanks to a strong team performance and the key return of forward Tim Waale.

After an early exit in the previous stage, Saigon Heat.EXE made a crucial lineup change, replacing young Nguyễn Hoàng Minh Tuấn with Tim Waale. His presence bolstered the defence, enabling the team to rediscover their rhythm and secure victories in all three matches en route to the victory.

Their group stage campaign began with a 19-15 win over Saigonect Minakami.EXE, the very team that defeated them the day before. This was followed by a dominant 21-10 performance against Hochiminh City Wings.EXE, ensuring the top spot in Group B.

In the semi-finals, Saigon Heat.EXE faced Uncle Drew Manila.EXE (Philippines), who had previously claimed the Stage 5 crown. The Vietnamese side controlled the tempo through smart ball movement and timely scoring from Davon Dillard. Despite a late push by MVP contender Ryan Monteclaro, Dillard’s decisive four-point run sealed a 22-17 victory.

The final saw Saigon Heat.EXE clash with Kuala Lumpur Rising Star.EXE (Malaysia) in a much-anticipated rematch. With less than 30 seconds left and trailing 16-17, Tim Waale delivered a game-changing steal and assist to Dillard for a clutch two-pointer. In the final seconds, the Malaysians committed a foul in an attempt to gain possession, but Dillard calmly sank both free throws, finalising a 20-17 win.

Davon Dillard, who also won the MVP title in Stage 1, was once again named the Most Valuable Player of Stage 6, thanks to his scoring bursts and leadership throughout the tournament.

In other results, Kuala Lumpur Rising Star.EXE defeated Uncle Drew Manila.EXE and HBA.EXE to top Group A, while Saigonect Minakami.EXE showcased strong form but fell short in the semi-finals. HBA.EXE and Hochiminh City Wings.EXE were both eliminated in the group stage.

The return of Tim Waale and a well-rounded performance from Saigon Heat.EXE reasserted their dominance in the tournament, marking their fifth stage win of the season. VNS