Clinic for basketball referees, coaches organised at Guru Nanak Stadium in Ludhiana

Ludhiana, November 8

A clinic for referees and coaches of basketball was organised at Guru Nanak Stadium here on Monday on the eve of the inaugural edition of the Punjab Open 3x3 Basketball Championship, scheduled to be held from November 9 to 14.

During the six-day meet to be conducted by the 3BL with the assistance of the Punjab Basketball Association (PBA) in which competition for U-18 boys and girls will be conducted from November 9 to 11 and for men and women from November 12 to 14.

The 3x3 format of basketball is the fastest and shortest in the world. All you need is one hoop, a half-court and six players. It’s a 10-minute game. Highest score in 10 minutes or first team to score 21 points wins. The format is not only the International Basketball Federation (FIBA’s) second official discipline but will be played at the Commonwealth Games — Birmingham 2022 and at the Paris 2024 Olympics.

Teja Singh Dhaliwal, honorary general secretary, PBA, said the clinic was held for the benefit of referees and coaches who would officiate in the meet. During the clinic, experts interacted with these officials to familiarise them with FIBA’s 3x3 rules.

“Punjab has always led from the front in putting a basketball in the hands of its youngsters. We hope that our boys and girls will excel in 3x3 basketball just like they have been doing in the 5x5 format,” Teja Singh said.

Besides the Rs 1 lakh total prize money on offer, top participants have the chance of getting selected into Punjab state teams for the future 3x3 competitions. — OC