As civil war rages through the landscape of the British sport, Rise 3×3 is an enthralling format that is shining through and capturing the imagination of basketball fanatics.

According to FIBA3x3.com, 3×3 basketball’s digital presence has exploded, with followers growing from 2.6 million in 2021 to over 8 million today.

Fast, physical, competitive. 3×3 adds an intriguing twist on the traditional form of basketball. It allows players to release themselves from the usual shackles of a playbook and play with an aura that is inspiring to witness.

The captivating version of the sport piqued the interest of basketball lovers during the Paris Olympics 2024, as the Netherlands put on a fantastic display to snatch the gold medal from the host nation, France, in the male category, and Germany triumphed over Spain in the women’s final.

Despite not having a 3×3 roster qualify for the Olympic Games, this particular format is thriving in Great Britain – as the nation eagerly awaits to participate in the FIBA 3×3 2025 World Cup, commencing on June 23.

However, one particular domestic competition that Great Britain has a deep pool of exciting talent bursting through at the grassroots level, waiting to become the next 3×3 superstar.

What is Rise 3×3 City League?

Rise 3×3 City League is a FIBA 3×3 and British Basketball Federation (BBF) recognised league and the first of its kind in the United Kingdom, founded by Martin Dyan (El Commish) in 2024.

Each team will compete in ‘stops’ in an attempt to qualify for the City League Finals. ‘Stops’ are tournaments in which ‘Full League’ teams will face off against each other or ‘Challenge’ teams. ‘Challenge’ teams are not fully committed to the league, but can enter a ‘stop’ of their choosing – providing fresh opposition for usual rosters to come to terms with.

Currently, there are four ‘stops’ in a season. Each stop will feature 10 ‘Full League’ teams and up to four ‘Challenge’ teams.

By winning a tournament (stop), a team will book themselves in the City League Finals. However, this is not the only way to qualify as a team will have the opportunity to collect City League Points throughout the course of a season, which will allow them to feature on Rise’s biggest stage – with only eight spots up for grabs. 

City League Points System:

• Winning a game – 1 point
• Semi-finals appearance – 2 points
• Finals appearance – 3 points
• Winning a Stop – 4 points

The curtain has closed on Rise 3×3 Season II as the City League Finals took place on May 29 at City Sport in London, with the sensational London Enforcers 3×3 narrowly defeating Sunrise II Riches 21-15.

Are there any prizes for the winner?

There are more than just medals and trophies up for grabs in the UK’s only 3×3 league; the winner of the City League Finals will gain automatic entry to FIBA 3×3 Lite Quest – an event that can provide an opportunity to compete in a FIBA 3×3 Challenger event. 

Not only are there mammoth prizes awarded for being crowned Rise 3×3 champions, but each ‘stop’ is a unique opportunity to acquire official FIBA 3×3 ranking points – a way to determine a player’s or team’s standing in this format.

Some players may see Rise as a chance to showcase their individual basketball talents and impress any potential suitors, with professionally edited game highlights posted on the league’s social media handles (@rise_3x3).

Where can I watch Rise 3×3?

City League events are free to spectate in person, with highlights provided on YouTube. A date for Season III has yet to be confirmed; however, Rise 3×3 founder, Martin Dyan, stated to Britsdontjump that he expects that proceedings should resume near the end of the year – so keep a keen eye on their socials!

For now, the gripping Season II City League Finals are available to watch on YouTube.  

If you find yourself desperate to quench your thirst for the insatiable 3×3 format, Rise will be hosting an event in Shoreditch on July 6, which will feature exceptionally gifted City League players.

What makes this league so stunning and refreshing to observe is not just the physical, fast-paced nature of the sport, but the clear commitment to developing players and providing them with a stable foundation to thrive.

Dyan explained to Britsdontjump, “The talent is amazing. The level of 3×3 has improved drastically. You just need to give these guys the opportunity and a goal.”

A noteworthy passion and dedication to provide a compelling pathway for players to achieve their dreams indicate that Dyan can be an integral figure in the future of 3×3 basketball in Great Britain.

Rise 3×3 is a must-watch and has the potential to become a mainstay of the domestic landscape for years to come.