WHAT IS 3X3 BASKETBALL?
3×3 basketball has just three players on each team, compared to the usual five-a-side basketball game.
The game is played on a half-court with one hoop. After taking possession of the ball, the offensive team has only 12 seconds on the shot clock to attempt to score – half of the 24 seconds allowed in regular basketball.
Each game lasts just 10 minutes and can be won in two ways: by scoring the most points at the final whistle, or by reaching 21 points first.
Mr Ng said the intense pace and short playing time means a strong focus is what makes or breaks a team. Unlike regular basketball, which lasts 40 minutes, this speedy variation allows players little time to plan their moves or stage a comeback.
“After you score a basket, you have to go to defence straight away. And it is only a 10-minute game, so everything happens in the 10 minutes,” said the 22-year-old, who is a towering 1.97m tall.
The national athlete, who trains up to four times a week while serving his National Service, said he loves this version of basketball for its intensity and versatility.
SHOOTING FOR 2032 OLYMPICS
The quick-fire game is getting Singapore’s basketball fraternity excited and dreaming big of major international tournaments.
The BAS has set its sights on the Brisbane 2032 Summer Olympics, giving the nation about nine years to get a team ready.
The association’s coaching and development chairman Allen Lee believes the country has what it takes.
“There is a lot of potential in 3×3 basketball. It really boils down to how much training you have, and how you identify the strengths and weaknesses of your opponents,” said Mr Lee.
“We do know the formula in terms of how we can actually (qualify) … Singapore stands a very good chance if we are able to put in more resources.”