LA 2028 Olympics Expands 3x3 Basketball — and Why It’s a Big Deal for Youth Players

3x3 Basketball Is Taking Over the World Stage

FIBA recently announced that the LA 2028 Olympic Games will expand the 3x3 basketball tournament to 12 teams per gender, up from eight in 2020 and 2024. That means more opportunities, more exposure, and a bigger platform for players from around the world — including future athletes right here in Orange County.

3x3 has become one of the fastest-growing forms of basketball globally. It’s official, fast-paced, and action-packed, played on a half court with just three players per team. Now, with its Olympic footprint expanding, the pathway for youth players to reach that level has never been clearer.

Why the 3x3 Format Creates Better, Smarter Players

3x3 isn’t just fun — it’s a development powerhouse. With fewer players and a 12-second shot clock, every possession demands quick thinking, sharp decision-making, and constant movement.

Kids in 3s League learn to:

• Handle the ball under pressure
• Read defenses and react instantly
• Communicate and lead on the court
• Develop creativity and confidence in every play

Those are the same skills elite players use in college, pro, and Olympic 3x3 competition.

From Orange County to the Olympics: Building the Pipeline

At 3s League, we believe the road to the Olympic 3x3 stage begins locally — with community leagues that emphasize development, not just winning.

By introducing kids ages 9U–14U to the official FIBA 3x3 format, we’re creating a foundation for future success:

• Youth Level: Learn the fundamentals of 3x3 — spacing, pace, and teamwork.
• High School Level: Compete in structured 3x3 tournaments and showcase events.
• College Level: Join the growing number of universities forming official 3x3 teams under USA Basketball and FIBA programs.
• Elite Level: Represent Team USA in the FIBA World Cup and Olympic qualifiers.

Every player starts somewhere — and for kids in Orange County, that start can be at 3s League.

The Bigger Vision: U.S. Development Needs a Home Base

Other countries already have 3x3 development pipelines — from youth academies in Europe to national training programs in Asia. The U.S. is catching up, and community-based leagues like 3s League can play a crucial role in bridging that gap.

By providing kids with real FIBA-inspired experience early, we’re not only teaching basketball — we’re helping shape the next generation of American 3x3 talent.

Join the Movement

3s League isn’t just another youth basketball league. It’s a place where kids can dream big, compete hard, and build the skills that could one day take them from Orange County to the Olympic stage.

🏀 Registration for Spring 2026 opens soon.

Learn more and join the waitlist at 3sLeague.com.