Basic 3x3 Basketball Rules
Here’s a clear and concise overview of 3x3 basketball game rules, based on official FIBA 3x3 guidelines:
Court & Teams
- Half-court game with 1 hoop
- Two teams of 3 players each (plus 1 substitute per team)
- Ball: Size 6 (women's size), but with weight of size 7 (men's)
Game Duration
- 10 minutes of regular game time OR
- First team to 21 points wins
- Overtime: First team to score 2 points in OT wins
Scoring
- 1 point for baskets inside the arc
- 2 points for baskets beyond the arc
- 1 point per made free throw
Possession
- A coin toss decides first possession
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After a made basket or free throw:
- The opposing team takes the ball out beyond the arc
- Check ball (pass to start play) after dead balls
Shot Clock
- 12-second shot clock
- Fast-paced—decisions must be quick!
X Fouls
- Personal fouls count as team fouls
- 7+ team fouls = 2 free throws to opponent
- 10+ team fouls = 2 free throws + possession
Substitutions
- Allowed during dead balls only
- No coach involvement allowed