ORLANDO, Fla. (Aug. 24, 2025) — In a game that embodied the intensity and unpredictability of BIG3 basketball, the Miami 305 captured their first league title with a thrilling 51-48 victory over the Chicago Triplets at Addition Financial Arena. Veteran guard Mario Chalmers sealed the championship in dramatic fashion, drilling the game-winning shot that sent his teammates and fans into celebration.

A Heavyweight Clash

From the opening tip, the championship matchup lived up to its billing. The Triplets, led by BIG3 icon Joe Johnson, were seeking their third league crown and leaned heavily on their halfcourt execution. Johnson, known for his clutch shot-making, set the tone early with contested jumpers and timely assists.

But Miami responded with energy and physicality, led by Michael Beasley, who put together one of the most dominant performances in BIG3 Finals history. Beasley finished with 25 points and 12 rebounds, relentlessly attacking the rim and controlling the glass. His versatility forced the Triplets to adjust defensively throughout the game, yet they had no answer for his inside-out scoring arsenal.

Stephenson Provides the Spark

While Beasley carried the scoring load, Lance Stephenson played the role of emotional catalyst for Miami 305. The veteran guard brought his trademark swagger and energy, diving for loose balls, pushing the pace, and knocking down crucial mid-range jumpers. Stephenson’s presence on both ends ignited the crowd and provided Miami with momentum during key stretches when the Triplets threatened to pull away.

His ability to guard multiple positions also slowed Chicago’s supporting cast, limiting open looks for perimeter shooters and forcing the Triplets into tough, contested attempts.

The Triplets Battle Back

The Chicago Triplets were far from intimidated. Johnson, as expected, shouldered the offensive burden and finished with a game-high 20 points. His shot creation in isolation and ability to steady the offense kept the Triplets within striking distance, even as Beasley dominated inside.

Veteran big man Al Jefferson contributed eight points and six rebounds, using his size to combat Beasley’s rebounding dominance, while guard Jannero Pargo hit a pair of long-range shots to momentarily swing momentum in the Triplets’ favor.

By late in the second half, the score was tied at 46-46, with both teams just five points away from the title in BIG3’s “first to 51” format.

Chalmers Delivers the Championship

With the championship hanging in the balance, the game slowed to a possession-by-possession battle. Johnson connected on a fadeaway jumper to give the Triplets a slim lead, but Miami quickly responded with Beasley powering through contact for a layup.

Then, with the score knotted at 48-48, Mario Chalmers delivered the defining moment of the BIG3 season. The former two-time NBA champion calmly stepped back beyond the arc and buried the game-winning shot, ending the contest and clinching Miami’s first-ever BIG3 championship.

The shot capped off a steady performance from Chalmers, who finished with 12 points and five assists while providing leadership and composure in crunch time.

Postgame Reactions

Beasley was named BIG3 Finals MVP for his dominant double-double performance. “I just wanted to come out here and play my game,” Beasley said afterward. “This team trusted me, and we all believed we could make history tonight.”

Chalmers, the hero of the night, embraced the moment. “I’ve hit big shots before in my career, but this one is special,” he said. “To do it for Miami, in this league, with this group of guys—it means everything.”

Triplets captain Joe Johnson praised his team’s effort despite the defeat. “We fought hard, but they made the plays when it mattered most,” Johnson said. “That’s what championships come down to.”

A Landmark for the BIG3

The 2025 BIG3 Championship showcased the league’s growing appeal, blending nostalgia with high-level competition. For Miami 305, the title validated their roster construction and chemistry, while the Triplets’ runner-up finish further cemented their reputation as perennial contenders.

As confetti rained down inside Addition Financial Arena, Miami 305 celebrated a milestone moment—one built on Beasley’s dominance, Stephenson’s energy, and Chalmers’ championship poise.

Final Score: Miami 305 51, Chicago Triplets 48.