3×3 basketball, governed by FIBA rules, has specific regulations that differ from traditional full-court basketball. The current rules, updated in January 2019, aim to streamline gameplay and enhance the fast-paced nature of the sport. Below is an overview of the key rules and regulations that define 3×3 basketball.
Team Composition
- Players: Each team consists of three players and one substitute. Teams must have three players on the court at the beginning of the game.
Court Dimensions
- Playing Area: The game is played on a half-court with one basket. The official court dimensions are 15 meters (49 ft) wide and 11 meters (36 ft) long. While the standard half-court distance is 14 meters (46 ft), a half of a standard FIBA full court is also acceptable for official competitions.
Basketball Specifications
- Ball: The basketball used in 3×3 is unique, featuring the circumference of a size 6 basketball (28.5 inches) used in women’s full-court games, but with the weight of a size 7 basketball (22 oz) used in men’s games.
Game Start and Possession
- Jump Ball: There is no jump ball to start the game. Instead, a coin toss determines which team takes possession. The winning team can choose to either start with the ball or take the first possession in case of overtime.
- Held-Ball Situations: There are no jump balls at any time; if a held-ball situation occurs, possession is awarded to the defensive team.
Scoring
- Points: Successful shots made inside the arc are worth one point, while shots made beyond the arc are worth two points.
Game Duration
- Single Period: The game consists of a single period lasting 10 minutes, with a sudden death rule in effect at 21 points. The first team to score 21 points or the team with the highest score at the end of the 10 minutes wins. If tied at the end of regulation, the game proceeds to an untimed overtime, where the first team to score two points wins.
Gameplay Regulations
- Ball Exchange: Gameplay starts with a ball exchange between the defensive and offensive teams behind the arc. This exchange also restarts the game after dead-ball situations.
- Shot Clock: A 12-second shot clock is in effect, adding urgency to scoring attempts.
- Moving the Ball: If the defense gains possession within the arc, they must move the ball behind the arc before attempting a shot.
Restarting Play
- After a Goal or Free Throw: After a successful goal or free throw, the non-scoring team restarts play by taking the ball directly under the basket, dribbling or passing it behind the arc. Defenders cannot play for the ball within the semi-circle under the basket.
Substitutions
- Substitution Procedures: Substitutions can only occur during dead-ball situations and must happen from behind the end line opposite the basket. A substitution is official when the exiting player makes contact with the incoming player, with no action required from officials.
Time-Outs and Fouls
- Time-Outs: Each team is allowed one time-out. Officials can stop the game for player injuries or dangerous situations.
- Foul Counts: Personal fouls are not tracked individually, meaning players cannot be disqualified for personal fouls. However, a player committing two unsportsmanlike fouls will be disqualified.
- Free Throws: Fouls during shooting attempts result in free throws—one free throw for fouls inside the arc and two for fouls behind the arc. Team fouls are awarded free throws based on the count (e.g., team fouls 7-9 grant two free throws; 10 or more grants two free throws plus possession).
Conclusion
Understanding the rules and regulations of 3×3 basketball is essential for players, coaches, and fans alike. These rules are designed to enhance the competitive spirit of the game while ensuring fair play and safety for all participants. Whether you’re a player or a spectator, being aware of these regulations will enrich your experience of this exciting sport.