Section 8: Safety Considerations
Outdoor Surface Safety
- 3x3 is often contested outdoors on asphalt, concrete, or synthetic tiles; surface inspection prior to play is the responsibility of the event organizer
- Heat absorption by dark surfaces in summer competition requires hydration management and, in extreme conditions, surface-temperature monitoring
- Loose debris, water, or surface defects must be addressed before play resumes
Pace and Conditioning
3x3 is a high-intensity, short-duration game — a typical 10-minute game can deliver a higher heart-rate load than a 5-on-5 game. Players are responsible for warming up adequately, managing hydration during play (the 30-second timeout can be used for water/electrolyte intake), and recognizing fatigue-related injury risk.
Concussion Protocol
FIBA follows the IOC consensus on concussion in sport: any player with a suspected concussion is removed from play and is subject to a graduated return-to-play assessment before being cleared for subsequent competition. Match-day diagnosis is the responsibility of the team medical staff or the event medical observer.
Heat and Weather
- WBGT-based heat thresholds for play modifications and postponement in outdoor events
- Lightning detection halts outdoor activity; play resumes only after the all-clear interval has elapsed
- High wind affecting ball trajectory may delay play in outdoor competitions; the decision is at the discretion of the Technical Delegate
Medical Coverage
- FIBA 3x3 World Tour and World Cup events have on-site medical staff including physicians and EMTs
- Emergency action plans cover on-field cardiac, head/neck, orthopedic, and heat-related emergencies
- Defibrillators (AEDs) are positioned at every FIBA-sanctioned 3x3 venue