Congratulations are in order for Zee Spearman and Lady Vol For Life (LVFL) Cierra Burdick, who have officially claimed the 2025 USA Basketball 3X Nationals women’s division championship. With fierce determination, elite-level skill, and unshakable chemistry, Spearman and Burdick stood tall in a tournament that brought together some of the best 3×3 basketball players in the country. Their triumph is not only a personal milestone but also a resounding statement about the growing dominance and influence of women’s 3×3 basketball in the United States.
The 3X Nationals, held annually by USA Basketball, have become a proving ground for emerging stars and seasoned veterans alike. For Spearman, a rising name in the basketball world, and Burdick, a former Tennessee standout and WNBA veteran, this win was a culmination of experience, leadership, and raw competitive fire. They entered the tournament with high expectations, and by the end, they exceeded even the loftiest projections. The pair’s combination of power, poise, and relentless hustle made them nearly unstoppable throughout the competition.
Zee Spearman was electric from the jump, bringing intensity to both ends of the floor. Her agility, shooting touch, and defensive grit were on full display throughout the tournament. Spearman showed an ability to create space, knock down key shots under pressure, and elevate her teammates with her vocal leadership and relentless motor. She attacked the paint with confidence, pulled up from beyond the arc without hesitation, and remained a disruptive force defensively. Spearman’s game is tailor-made for the fast-paced, high-pressure nature of 3×3 basketball, and she took full advantage of the spotlight.
Cierra Burdick, meanwhile, proved once again why she’s one of the most respected figures in women’s basketball. A proud representative of the Tennessee Lady Vols legacy, Burdick brought veteran savvy, high basketball IQ, and leadership that anchored the team’s success. Her rebounding presence, toughness, and ability to stretch the floor made her a matchup nightmare. She made key plays in crunch time and never shied away from physical battles under the rim. Burdick’s experience in the WNBA, overseas leagues, and international competitions shined through, especially when games came down to the wire.
Together, Spearman and Burdick were a force to be reckoned with. Their synergy was evident with every crisp pass, perfectly timed screen, and unselfish play. 3×3 basketball is built on chemistry, spacing, and quick decision-making, and this duo demonstrated a masterclass in all three. Game after game, they imposed their will with fierce defense, smooth offensive execution, and an undeniable competitive edge. The energy they brought to the court not only fueled their own success but energized fans and inspired a new generation of players watching from the sidelines.
Winning the 3X Nationals means more than just a trophy or title. It positions Spearman and Burdick at the forefront of a growing movement in basketball. With 3×3 basketball gaining more international recognition and becoming a staple event in global competitions like the Olympics, this victory adds to their résumé in a major way. It also reinforces the depth and talent within women’s basketball in the U.S., especially when players from diverse backgrounds and stages of their careers can unite and achieve excellence on such a dynamic stage.
For Cierra Burdick, the victory adds another chapter to an already impressive legacy. A standout during her time at Tennessee, Burdick has always embodied the Lady Vols spirit—gritty, passionate, and dedicated to the game. Her journey has taken her around the world, but her heart has remained close to the values instilled in her during her collegiate years. This championship is a testament to her continued commitment to excellence and her ability to elevate every team she’s a part of. The “LVFL” moniker isn’t just a hashtag—it’s a badge of honor, and Burdick continues to wear it with pride.
As for Zee Spearman, this victory is likely to be a springboard moment in her career. Already known for her tenacity and scoring ability, Spearman’s performance on this national stage only reinforces her upward trajectory. Her name is now in the mix when discussing elite 3×3 talent, and she has proven that she can lead, compete, and win at the highest level. There’s no doubt that more opportunities will come her way—whether it’s in traditional 5-on-5 basketball, professional leagues, or future international 3×3 competitions.
Together, this championship also represents the power of collaboration across generations of basketball. The union of Spearman’s fresh energy and Burdick’s veteran wisdom created a perfect storm for dominance. In an era where women’s sports continue to grow in visibility and popularity, their success serves as both a beacon and blueprint. It sends a message to young girls across the country: you can dream big, compete hard, and win on any stage.
USA Basketball continues to serve as a platform for elite talent and transformative moments, and this championship run by Spearman and Burdick will be remembered as one of those iconic moments. It’s about more than just the scoreboard—it’s about inspiring others, pushing limits, and redefining what’s possible in this evolving sport. As 3×3 basketball continues to rise in global stature, performances like this will help shape the narrative and raise the bar for future competitions.
In the end, it was grit, skill, and heart that earned Zee Spearman and Cierra Burdick their place atop the 2025 USA Basketball 3X Nationals podium. Their journey to the championship showcased everything that makes 3×3 basketball thrilling and everything that makes these two athletes exceptional. Congratulations to both players on an unforgettable run, and here’s to whatever greatness awaits them next.