New Delhi: The Basketball Federation of India will launch the first ever 3x3 National Basketball Championship for Men and Women representing various states of India. The 3x3 format of basketball envisages the equivalent of T-20 of Cricket.
The first leg of the championship development program to be held in Delhi on 10th and 11th April, 2013 from 9 am -7pm, will see the most talented and skilled players in action. The exciting matches will be a short 10 Minute game each, covering half court. Simultaneously, 4 matches will be played in the Indoor Courts at Thyagraj Stadium creating a thrilling environment.
This is the new format of Basketball being aggressively promoted by FIBA World and FIBA Asia. During the conduct of this championship 8 top players in Men and Women section each will be selected to Train and further represent India at Asian Championships for 3x3 to be held this year, as listed below-
1. 3x3 Asian Basketball Championship for Men in Doha – 15th -17th May, 2013.
2. 3x3 Asian Basketball Championship for Under 18 Men and Women in Bangkok – 22nd -24th May, 2013.
In the past, Indian National Basketball Teams (Men & Women) have set new milestones by clinching the Bronze and Silver Medal at the 3x3 Beach Games held in 2011, followed by Gold clinched at the recent 3x3 event held in China in 2012.
For the first time Basketball Federation of India will carry forward the National Basketball Championship to Ludhiana on 18th and 19th April 2012 for U18 Division for Men and Women. Conducting 3x3 programs at the national level are important as they will help identify and develop top basketball talent for Indian National Teams in addition training them under foreign Coaches like Scott Flemming and Zak Penwell to represent India at the prestigious international events. Nivia will serve as the event’s official Ball supplier.
The 3x3 format provides a quick game of 10 minutes duration or first to score 21 points. played on half court (Indoor / Outdoor) and as a result two games can be played on single court simultaneously. This makes the format cost effective as only four players and one referee per team are required. Popular as Street basketball this speed oriented 3x3 format competitions can be organised in Malls, Business Centres, Parks, Historical places of tourist interest along with vibrant entertainment like DJ, Music, Dance, Drama, in addition to 3 point competitions, dunking competitions and other skill challenges that can engage and captivate the interest of spectators, thus promoting the sport throughout India.
About BFI
The Basketball Federation of India, along with its partners IMG Reliance organizes 5 National Championships in different age groups i.e. Senior, Under 18, Under 16, Under 14, Federation Cup. In addition, BFI also conducts National School and College League.
Such events are instrumental for the young Basketball enthusiasts to get opportunities not only for skill development but also attend coaching Camps, exposure trips abroad and participation in Asian and International Events. Talented players are being regularly recruited and given jobs in various organizations like ONGC, Indian Railways, State and National Banks like Indian Overseas Banks, Customs, Revenue & Excise etc.