The World Tour Amsterdam Masters is not just any event. It is also the centenary of the World Tour Masters, which was first held in Sao Paulo in 2012. Eleven years on and 99 World Tours later, Amsterdam is setting a new standard for the biggest and most prestigious international 3x3 professional circuit.

'The Cultuurdorp Westergas and Gashouder is the perfect venue for the 100th edition of the World Tour,' said Esteban Gonzalez on behalf of FIBA. 'The special venue suits the special edition well. This venue is different from all the others we have been to so far.'

Gonzalez points to the industrial look of the Cultuurdorp Westergas and Gashouder as a beautiful setting that fits seamlessly with the urban character of 3x3 basketball. He also did not see the immense LED screens behind the basket anywhere else. 'Those screens are great, just like the lighting and the rest of the environment. It's like the players are playing in a circus.'

So the first World Tour Masters was organised in 2012. The first year, the tour was still relatively small. The season consisted of five or six World Tours. But in recent years, the biggest international professional circuit exploded in popularity and events. This season will be played at 18 different venues around the world.

From Manila to Prague and from Shanghai to Amsterdam, which thus hosts the 100th edition. 'We are super proud to host this special edition,' says tournament director Jesper Jobse. 'But we want to be remembered not only for the centenary edition, but also because we have created something that has not been done before.'

At the Cultuurdorp Westergas and Gashouder, almost every seat was occupied all weekend. To Gonzalez's satisfaction. 'The atmosphere is great and the crowd is very engaged. They encourage the teams passionately, especially the teams from Amsterdam and Utrecht.'

Asked if the World Tour Amsterdam Masters is a good birthday party, Gonzalez does not have to think long. 'Yes, this is a great birthday party for the 100th edition.'