Congratulations to Zee Spearman and #LVFL Cierra Burdick on Winning the 2025 USA Basketball 3X Nationals Women’s Championship Title
In a remarkable show of talent, determination, and competitive grit, Zee Spearman and Lady Vol For Life Cierra Burdick etched their names into the annals of American basketball history by capturing the 2025 USA Basketball 3X Nationals women’s division championship. This dynamic duo, combining a rising star in Spearman with the seasoned excellence and leadership of Burdick, demonstrated not only elite skill on the court but also embodied the values of perseverance, teamwork, and national pride that define the best in U.S. basketball. The 3X Nationals, one of the premier events on the domestic basketball calendar, gathered the country’s top-tier women’s 3×3 players, offering a showcase of raw athleticism, refined strategy, and relentless competition. In this crucible of high-stakes play, Spearman and Burdick’s journey to the top was nothing short of extraordinary.
The path to the championship was not paved easily. From the opening tip-off of the tournament, Spearman and Burdick were locked in, showcasing an instant chemistry that belied their limited time together on the court. Spearman, known for her explosive scoring, defensive tenacity, and fearless approach, brought a youthful energy and edge that immediately challenged opponents. Burdick, whose resume includes playing at the highest levels in both the WNBA and international competition, served as the team’s anchor. Her leadership, decision-making, and calm under pressure were invaluable assets throughout the weekend. While each brought different tools to the table, their games complemented one another with precision and purpose.
As the early rounds progressed, Spearman and Burdick dismantled teams with a mix of physicality and finesse. Their ability to space the floor, hit timely shots, and defend multiple positions proved crucial in tight moments. The unique demands of 3×3 basketball — a faster pace, a 12-second shot clock, and continuous play — require players to be not only skilled but also supremely conditioned and mentally sharp. Both players rose to the occasion, embracing the rhythm and flow of the format with veteran-like ease. Whether it was Spearman hitting clutch two-point shots or Burdick making the smart play to secure possession, they approached each matchup with a blend of intensity and intelligence.
As they advanced to the semifinals, the stakes heightened and the level of competition intensified. In a dramatic and physical semifinal showdown, Spearman and Burdick were tested in every facet of their game. Their opponents pushed them to the brink, forcing them to dig deep in the closing minutes. It was here that their cohesion and resilience shined brightest. A key defensive stop by Burdick, followed by a backbreaking two-pointer from Spearman, sealed the win and booked their spot in the championship game. It was a defining moment that encapsulated the essence of their partnership: trust, hustle, and belief in one another.
The championship final itself was a spectacle worthy of the national stage. A packed crowd, vibrant atmosphere, and electric tension served as the backdrop for the biggest game of the tournament. From the opening possession, it was clear that Spearman and Burdick came prepared to leave it all on the court. They matched their opponents blow for blow, trading baskets and defensive stands in what became a high-octane duel. Burdick’s veteran savvy was on full display, controlling the tempo and delivering a series of key plays that kept the momentum in their favor. Spearman, ever the competitor, attacked the rim with fearlessness and knocked down a pair of crucial long-range shots that sent the crowd into a frenzy.
As the final minutes ticked away, the duo maintained their composure, executing with poise and precision. In the end, a defensive rebound by Burdick and a quick outlet to Spearman led to a decisive layup that put them ahead for good. The final buzzer sounded, and with it, a wave of emotion washed over the champions. The two embraced at center court, grins wide and tears in their eyes, soaking in a moment that would surely become a lasting memory in their careers.
For Cierra Burdick, the championship represents another proud chapter in a storied basketball life. A standout at the University of Tennessee under the legendary Pat Summitt, Burdick has long carried the torch of the Lady Vol legacy. Her professionalism, humility, and relentless work ethic have made her a role model for young athletes and a proud representative of the #LVFL (Lady Vol For Life) community. This title further cements her place as not only an elite player but also as a beacon for what it means to give back to the game. Her leadership throughout the tournament was not only evident in her play but in the way she elevated her teammate and fostered a culture of belief.
For Zee Spearman, this win signals her arrival on the national stage. Though younger and less experienced than many of her counterparts, Spearman’s confidence and competitive spirit set her apart. She embraced the pressure of the moment and thrived under the brightest lights, proving that she belongs among the elite. Her performance at the 3X Nationals is likely to serve as a springboard for even greater opportunities, whether in future USA Basketball events, professional circuits, or international play. What’s clear is that she possesses all the tools — athleticism, toughness, and a high basketball IQ — to become one of the next faces of American women’s basketball.
The 3X Nationals win is more than a personal achievement for Spearman and Burdick. It is a statement about the strength and depth of talent in the women’s game, particularly in the 3×3 format, which continues to gain traction globally. Since its Olympic debut in Tokyo 2020, 3×3 basketball has become a fertile ground for innovation, entertainment, and new heroes. The United States has consistently fielded strong teams, and the championship win by Spearman and Burdick ensures that the pipeline of talent and success continues. It also sends a message that 3×3 basketball is a serious avenue for competitive success and a platform for athletes to shine.
In the aftermath of their triumph, tributes poured in from across the basketball community. Former teammates, coaches, fans, and fellow Lady Vols congratulated Burdick and Spearman on their historic win. The pride within the Tennessee program, especially, was palpable. Burdick’s success was celebrated as a continuation of the values instilled by Summitt — toughness, accountability, and excellence on and off the court. For Spearman, many recognized this moment as a breakout, a preview of the bright future that lies ahead. Social media buzzed with highlight clips, heartfelt messages, and celebration of what this win means for both players and the sport.
In many ways, the championship is also a reflection of how far women’s basketball has come and how much further it can go. Events like the 3X Nationals are crucial in expanding opportunities and visibility for female athletes. The excitement, the coverage, and the competitive integrity of the tournament all contribute to the growing ecosystem of women’s sports. Champions like Spearman and Burdick do more than win games — they inspire the next generation of girls watching from home, dreaming of one day wearing a USA jersey and chasing their own championships.
As the confetti settled and the celebrations began, one thing was clear: Zee Spearman and Cierra Burdick didn’t just win a title — they created a moment. A moment of joy, of unity, of excellence. A moment that honored the past, celebrated the present, and pointed toward a bright future. For Burdick, it was a fitting reminder that her career is as impactful as ever. For Spearman, it was the start of something special. And for fans of the game, it was a reason to believe that the best of women’s basketball is yet to come.
Their 2025 USA Basketball 3X Nationals women’s division championship isn’t just a triumph of skill — it’s a testament to what’s possible when experience meets hunger, when mentorship meets fire, and when two players step onto the court determined to write their own story. Congratulations once again to Zee Spearman and #LVFL Cierra Burdick — national champions, trailblazers, and true ambassadors of the game.
