Singapore is no stranger to 3×3 basketball. In fact, the Lion City played host to the first-ever FIBA 3×3 international competition back at the 2010 Youth Olympic Games. Fast forward to 2025, and Singapore’s commitment to the format has never been clearer. After hosting the FIBA 3×3 Asia Cup for the fourth consecutive year and securing future international 3×3 events all the way through to 2027, Singapore has officially gone all-in on the faster, grittier, and more fan-friendly version of the game. And if this year’s FIBA 3×3 Asia Cup was any indication, the investment is already paying off—for both Singaporean basketball and the local fans who have whole-heartedly embrace this electrifying format. Over the years, the fans and players alike have learned more than a few lessons about how the game operates, facilitating the team’s ascent to greater heights.

Lesson 1: 12 Seconds Is a Lot Less Than You Think

In 3×3 basketball, the shot clock is slashed to just 12 seconds. That’s barely enough time to catch your breath, let alone run an elaborate offensive set. The result? A game that’s as physical as it is frantic. Watching teams fight for every inch of space and scramble to get a shot off before the buzzer is a stark reminder of how different this format is from its 5v5 cousin. For Singapore’s players, the lesson has been clear: you have to be decisive, aggressive, and always prepared for contact.

Lesson 2: 2 Is More Than 1 (You Better Be Able to Shoot)

Unlike traditional basketball, where a shot beyond the arc is worth one more point than one within, the 3×3 format values outside shooting even more: shots outside the arc count for double what a regular basket does. This means a hot shooter can flip the game in just a couple of possessions, as displayed by marksmen such as Japan’s Ryo Ozawa, Chris Dierker from Vietnam, the Truong twins as well as Jhazmin Joson from the Philippines. Singapore’s teams have recognised this and have been sharpening their perimeter shooting to stay competitive against the region’s best.

Lesson 3: Foul Trouble is Big Trouble… And at That Point, 2 is No Longer More Than 1

In 3×3, fouls add up quickly, and once a team reaches seven fouls, every defensive mistake results in two free throws. Worse still, once a team crosses the 10-foul threshold, every subsequent foul is punished with two free throws AND possession for the other team. That makes discipline just as important as shooting and defense. Singaporean players and fans alike have learned that foul trouble in 3×3 is a nightmare—get sloppy, and suddenly, those two-pointers won’t save you.

Lesson 4: The Big is the Ideal Facilitator

Forget the traditional post-up game—Singapore’s bigs are learning that in 3×3, they’re often the best playmakers. With more space and more movement, feeding cutters is even easier than finding open shooters. Unlike in 5v5, where a point guard typically runs the show, or where a high-post big can facilitate with snappy passes out to shooters camping out on the perimeter, 3×3 rewards big men who can make quick reads and find teammates on the move, especially if they have the mobility and ability to weave around the court for dribble hand-offs. Expect Singapore’s future rosters to feature more versatile bigs who can pass and screen effectively.

Lesson 5: Decision-Making Matters More Than Ever (Officiating is a Tough Job!)

In a game where every possession is magnified, decision-making at the end of games can make or break a team. The FIBA 3×3 Asia Cup 2025 featured plenty of last-second drama, where an unexpected big play, a single mistake or a debatable call swung the result. With the physicality of the format and the speed of play, referees face an unenviable task—balancing the line between letting the game flow and enforcing fair play. Singapore’s teams have quickly realised that in 3×3, you have to stay composed, even when calls don’t go your way.

Lesson 6: Fit Can Matter More Than Individual Talent

While star power can make an impact, 3×3 basketball is fundamentally a game of chemistry and fit. With only three players on the court at any given time, teams need a seamless balance of skill sets—shooting, defense, playmaking, and rebounding must all be covered. A squad full of great individual players won’t necessarily succeed if they don’t complement each other’s strengths. The tough Philippines women’s squad showcased this as they stole hearts with their heart and team play: Joson’s shooting is ably complemented by Mikka Cacho’s strong drives and athletic plays, Kaye Pingol’s intense hustle and her relentless hands and feet, and Camille Clarin’s ability to facilitate from all over the court. Singapore’s teams have been learning that crafting a well-balanced quartet with strong on-court synergy is often more crucial than simply fielding the most talented players.

Lesson 7: Isolation or Running Plays? The Great 3×3 Debate

With limited time and space, teams must decide whether to run quick plays or rely on isolation scorers. While some of Asia’s best 3×3 teams have leaned on dominant one-on-one players, Singapore has been developing a more system-driven approach—utilising screens, quick passes, and cuts to create open looks. The balance between structured play and individual brilliance remains one of the most fascinating aspects of the game.

Lesson 8: Singapore and Singaporeans Can Get Very Loud Too!

If there was any doubt whether Singaporean fans would embrace 3×3 basketball, the FIBA 3×3 Asia Cup 2025 erased it. The atmosphere at the Singapore Sports Hub was electric, with passionate supporters roaring for the home teams and creating an intensity rarely seen in the local basketball scene. With Singapore set to host more major 3×3 tournaments—including the pinnacle of 3×3 basketball, the FIBA 3×3 World Cup in June 2027—this could be the start of a new era for Singapore’s basketball culture and scene.

The Verdict: 3×3 Basketball is Here to Stay in Singapore

Singapore’s decision to go big on 3×3 basketball is already showing results. The format is fast, physical, and exciting, making it a perfect fit for a country eager to cultivate a strong basketball grassroots culture. With Singapore’s continued investment in hosting and developing 3×3 talent, the future looks bright—not just for the national teams, but for every fan who has come to love this electrifying version of the game.

One thing is certain: Singapore isn’t just hosting 3×3 tournaments anymore. Singapore is becoming a true 3×3 basketball nation.