Our 3v3 League is a perfect option for athlete’s that are looking to get more game like experience with more spacing. Athlete’s will be able to be creative and apply the skills and IQ they have been wanting to improve on in game in a smaller setting.
There will be a maximum of 4 players per team. Each team will be placed into it’s respected grade level. ANY SKILL LEVEL IS WELCOME!
Players needs: Basketball shoes and a large water bottle to stay hydrated
Rules of The tournament
General Rules
Teams can consist of three or four players : three starters and one substitute.
All players must be 4th through 8th Grade as of Fall 2026.
All teams are guaranteed at least four (4) scheduled games .
Games are played on a half court using The SBA official 3x3 rules.
Scoring: one point per basket; two points for shots made behind the designated 3-point line. The team ahead after the 10-minute time limit wins. Possession alternates after each made basket.
The Shepherd Basketball Academy reserve the right to verify any player’s age and grade level. Inaccurate information is grounds for immediate disqualification of the player and possible the entire team.
The Shepherd Basketball Academy reserves the right to reduce the number of scheduled games, or shorten games, due to unforeseen circumstances.
Game Administration & Rules
Roster Size
4 player limit (must have 3 players to start the game)
Referees
1 required
The game Referee is the final authority for each game. All scores are final once certified by the game referee. The use of video review by game officials is prohibited.
Time/Score Keepers
1 required, 2 suggested (a parent from each team) or in Bracket play the referee/administrator will keep score
Time-outs
Each team is allowed one 30-second timeout per game.
Clock will stop
Initial Possession
Rock Paper Scissors (winning the Rock Paper Scissors allows a team to start the game with the ball or decline in order to get the ball in a potential overtime)
Game Duration & Scoring Limits
League Operators will have the option to organize their games according to either format below.
1×10 minutes
Running clock
The team with the most points at the end of the game
Overtime
First team to score two (2) points wins
Scoring
Baskets made from inside the arc count as one point. Baskets made from behind the arc count as two points.
Substitutions
Can occur in dead ball situations, prior to the check ball. Players must enter the game at the top of the court.
Can also occur at each 5 minute interval
Starting Possessions
To start the game and after any dead ball that requires checking the ball at the top, teams do not have to pass in. This means the player who checked ball can attempt to score right away from the top of the 3pt line at the rear of the court.
Shot Clock
The referee, court monitor, or staff member may institute a 30 second clock at any time. After a team has been warned about stalling, failure to hit the rim on the offensive possession within 30 seconds will result in loss of possession. The referee will count down the final 5 seconds.
Free Throws
1 free throw if fouled while shooting
2 free throws if fouled while shooting behind the arc
1 free throw if fouled while shooting and the shooter makes the shot
Free throws count as one point
Following a made free throw, the opposing team will check the ball at the top. If the
free throw is missed, the ball is live and the offensive team can rebound and play, or the
defensive team can rebound and clear.
Jump Ball
All jump balls become possession of the defensive team
Possession Following A Successful Goal
Defense now transitions to offense and has to get ball behind the 3pt line (Anywhere around the arc)
Do not have to wait for defense to get set
Possession Following a Dead Ball
Check ball exchange behind the arc (at the top)
Possession Following a Defensive Rebound or Steal
Ball to be dribbled/passed behind the arc
Playoffs
Players must play in at least 2 games for the respected team to be eligible for the Bracket Play.
Coaching Rules
Coaches are allowed to provide guidance during timeouts, and before and after the games. Coaches can also make substitutions.
Coaches will be penalized a point if a ref sees excessive coaching during games.
Penalties will be assessed at the referee’s discretion.