The International Olympic Committee (IOC) announced this week that 12 men’s and 12 women’s teams will compete in 3×3 basketball at LA28 — up from eight teams per gender at the upcoming Paris 2024 Games.
In a statement released Thursday, FIBA said the expansion shows the strong global growth and popularity of 3×3 basketball.
“This expansion from 8 to 12 teams per gender reflects the growth of 3×3 basketball over recent years and further highlights the sport’s global appeal and development,” the statement read. “The expanded field opens the door for greater universality and broader national representation, offering more countries the opportunity to compete on the Olympic stage.”
FIBA President Sheikh Saud Ali Al Thani thanked the IOC for the decision.
“Having four additional teams for the men’s and women’s tournaments is a testament to the global interest and excitement Olympic basketball has delivered at Tokyo 2020 and Paris 2024,” he said. “This is great encouragement for FIBA and our members to keep promoting our urban discipline.”
FIBA Secretary General Andreas Zagklis said the move is a game-changer for aspiring athletes around the world.
“Today marks a milestone for FIBA and our sport. The additional quota allows more National Federations and players from all around the world to dream that they can make it from the streets to the Olympics,” Zagklis said.
3×3 basketball made its Olympic debut at the Tokyo 2020 Games. Its inclusion in LA28 will mark the sport’s third appearance on the Olympic program.
Related topics: