The Future of Basketball in Singapore: Why 3x3 is Here to Stay

A roundup of basketball's history in Singapore

Basketball's hoops and baskets (nets are a more contemporary addition) hit Singapore's shores in the 1920s and quickly entered many school sports programmes, which encouraged the establishment of the Basketball and Volleyball Association in 1934—the genesis of the Basketball Association of Singapore (BAS). While many of us are familiar with the game's full format (i.e., 5 vs 5), basketball's 'little brother'— 3x3 now burns bright.

3x3 basketball's milestones

The 2010 Singapore Youth Olympic Games was 3x3 basketball's first big break. Its next big moment was at the 2021 Tokyo Summer Olympic Games. It was official. The explosive and fast-paced format of the game was here to stay—its glow drawing in players and fans alike.

What makes 3x3 basketball so hot?

Basketball's creator, James Naismith, developed the game as an indoor alternative for college students during winter when outdoor sports like American Football and Lacrosse were in their off-seasons.

With 13 rules at its inception, basketball is all about accessibility. Fewer players, a smaller play area, a shorter game time, and weatherproof (as long as you had a sheltered court).

3x3 takes the original idea and turns it up a notch—or two. Here are the differences between 5v5 and 3x3

5v5

• 40-minute game
• Played on a full-court
• 24-seconds shot clock
• 3-point, 2-point zones
• Coaches allowed courtside

3x3

• 10-minute game
• Played on a half-court
• 12-seconds shot clock
• 2-point and 1-point zones
• First to 21 points wins
• Coaches aren't allowed courtside

These changes supercharge the already relatively fast-flowing game of basketball. The best defence in 3x3 basketball, as far as we can tell, is an unrelenting offence—perhaps a future 3x3 defensive maestro will shake things up, but for now, it's attack, attack, attack!

And in 3x3, being able to take on the player marking you is much more critical than in 5v5. And that means players are pushed to be dynamic and develop their individual skills instead of relying on team strategy. 

Also, 3x3 comes with the added perk of space optimisation. Something Singaporeans will surely appreciate. 

The rise of 3x3 basketball in Singapore

Hosting the 2010 Youth Olympic Games, where 3x3 basketball made its Olympic debut, the game is equal next to 5v5 basketball. The BAS embraces the thrilling game, organises the National 3x3 Championships, and Singapore will host the FIBA 3x3 Asia Cup 2024. To top it off, players formerly hooping with the Singapore Slingers have jumped to the fast format. 

Be a sport and show your support

Singapore's 3x3 schedule for 2024 is shaping up to be action-packed. With the BAS NXL (national 3x3 league) games coming to a mall near you, the FIBA 3x3 Asia Cup returning in March and other events like the ANTA x RedBull Hoopfest 2024 in the pipeline—all the game needs now are fans like yourself to catch the action.

3x3 basketball leads the drive for Singapore's hooping future

From the skills it helps develop in budding players to the exhilarating and spectator-friendly matches, 3x3 basketball brings the game to more people for both players and fans.

Whether we grew up with the game or played it with friends during P.E. lessons or after school, keep an eye out for the next 3x3 and check it out with your friends and family!