THE RISE OF 3X3 BASKETBALL
From outdoor courts to the Olympics. In this blog we'll look into the history and growth of 3x3 basketball.Where did it start and how did 3x3 basketball develop throughout the years? Read all about it in this blog!
A bit of 3x3 basketball history
3x3 basketball started in the 80’s in the United States. It’s originated in the streetball culture, where people were playing 3-on-3 on outdoor courts or in gyms. Full-court games were more difficult to organize, resulting in people starting to play half-court games. In the 1980s there were several large tournaments where people were playing 3x3 basketball. One of these tournaments was the Gus Macker in Michigan. After the intorduction in 1974 the tournament grew to be a nationwide event. Together with Hoop It Up, these tournaments popularized the concept of playing on a half court nationwide across the United States. The foundation of the rules was also established during these tournaments, since 3x3 basketball is having it’s own set of rules. Some cultural success also helped growing the sport. The 1992 movie White Men Can’t Jump, which was very succesfull, features games like 3x3 basketball.
In 2007, the sport got official organized thanks to the FIBA deciding to create their own tournament. The tournament was such great success it led to the inclusion of 3x3 Basketball at the Youth Olympic Games in Singapore, in 2010. After the success of the Youth Olympics Games the FIBA decided to launch the FIBA 3x3 World Cup and World Tour in 2012.
Where to play 3x3 basketball?
3x3 basketball is a diverse sport which you can play on many different locations. Think of dedicated 3x3 courts but also an outdoor 5v5 court will supply. The streetball culture which is closely tight to 3x3 basketball makes it a great place to build a community and friendships.
A great example is the Paperdome in Amsterdam. This is a covered 3x3 court, where 3x3 Unites hosts all kind of different sports relate workshops for youth. Giving them the chance to meet likeminded people while playing sports.
Increasing popularity thanks to the Olympics
In 2017 the decision to add 3x3 Basketball to the Olympic Games got announced by the International Olympic Committee. Tokyo was the first city where 3x3 Basketball was officially part of the schedule. During the 2024 Paris Olympics, the Dutch team was led to victory when Worthy de Jong scored a 2-pointer in overtime.
Worthy de Jong, started as a 5v5 basketball player, as well switched from to 3x3 basketball. He hopes their success during the Olympics inspires young people to start playing basketball as well. The Olympics triggered the sport in the Netherlands. There is a massive growth in 3x3 events throughout the whole country and more kids want to play basketball at a club. The knowledge for 3x3 Basketball that was created thanks to the ‘buzzer beater’ Worthy de Jong pulled, is a great step for the sport and the attention it gets.
What products can you use for 3x3 basketball?
At Schelde Sports we are very happy to contribute to a World where as many people as possible can play 3x3 basketball. Besides our SAM 3x3, the official backstop of the FIBA 3x3 World Tour, we also offer other equipment very suitable for outdoor courts hosting 3x3 events or training. The SAM School 3x3 is a compact and portable backstop, especially designed for schools. If you are hosting a 3x3 event that doesn’t require FIBA certifications, the 3x3 Street Slammer could be the perfect fit for you.
Besides our backstops we also offer a wide range of basketball balls, 3x3 flooring and fixed outdoor basketball posts.
Do you need advise what equipment would be suitable for your event or court?
