How it works
3x3 is played on half a court with a single hoop. Each team has three players on court and one substitute. There are no long timeouts or breaks: when one team scores, the other inbounds from behind the arc and play continues.
Baskets are worth 1 point inside the arc and 2 points outside it, not 2 and 3 as in traditional basketball. The match ends when a team reaches 21 points or when 10 minutes pass, whichever comes first.
Why it's addictive
Because everyone touches the ball. With three players there's nowhere to hide: on every possession you have to attack, defend or clear space. And because matches are short, which in a tournament means a team can play six or seven in a single afternoon.
It's also because 3x3 needs so little: half a court and six people. It's the format we already played in the schoolyard without knowing it had a name, and it's what turned it into an Olympic sport at the Tokyo Games.
How it differs from 5x5
- Space — half a court, with everyone attacking and defending the same hoop.
- Scoring — 1 and 2 points, not 2 and 3.
- Length — 10 minutes or 21 points, not four quarters.
- Pace — no inbound after a basket from the baseline: play never stops.
- Physicality — far more demanding per minute played.
Where to play 3x3 in Barcelona
In Barcelona, 3x3 has mostly taken root as a one-day tournament format, held in squares and public spaces. The CB Grup Barna 3x3 is played at Westfield Glòries, on Plaça de les Glòries Catalanes, right by the El Clot neighborhood, with youth categories for club teams and open categories that any group can enter without belonging to a federation.
That mix is what gives it its atmosphere: on the same court you'll find club teams and groups of friends from the neighborhood. Entries are by team and places are limited. Anyone who wants to know when registration opens can leave their contact details or message the club's WhatsApp.
Frequently asked questions
How many people are needed to play 3x3?
Three players per team on court, plus an optional substitute. In total, six people on a half court with a single hoop.
How long does a 3x3 basketball match last?
A match ends when a team reaches 21 points or when 10 minutes of play have passed, whichever comes first.
How much are baskets worth in 3x3?
One point for baskets inside the arc and two points for those outside, unlike 5x5 basketball, where they're worth 2 and 3 points.
Is 3x3 an Olympic sport?
Yes. 3x3 basketball made its debut at the Tokyo Olympic Games and has been an Olympic discipline ever since.
Where can you play a 3x3 tournament in Barcelona?
CB Grup Barna organises its 3x3 tournament at Westfield Glòries, on Plaça de les Glòries Catalanes in Barcelona, with youth categories and open categories for groups of friends.
Want information about the club?
Leave us your name and contact details and we'll get back to you with information about the Escoleta, the camp or whichever team fits your child.