Everything you need to know about 3x3 and Olympics ahead of Paris 2024

PARIS (France) - It is just four months away until 3x3 takes center stage at the Paris Olympics and dominates the world's biggest sports event through its addictive fast-paced style of play and pulsating atmosphere. 

After receiving Olympic status in 2017, 3x3 made its debut four years ago, but the sequel will be better than the original because it will be the first time the half-court game is played in front of crowds after the fan-less Tokyo Games.

How many 3x3 teams will be in Paris? 

There will be eight men's and eight women's teams competing at the 3x3 event from July 30 -August 5. 

It will be absolutely lit and held at the iconic Place de la Concorde, which is in the heart of Paris. The venue can hold more than 5000 people and will be the ideal setting to showcase 3x3's electric atmosphere.

Who has already qualified? 

Six teams, three countries per gender, have directly qualified to Paris 2024 based on the FIBA 3x3 Federation Ranking as of November 1, 2023.

In the men's, powerhouse Serbia - who won bronze at 3x3's Olympic debut in Tokyo - finished on top of the rankings at the cut-off date in front of basketball heavyweight USA, who did not qualify for Tokyo.

Former NBA player and college phenom Jimmer Fredette is virtually a lock to represent Team USA and fulfil his childhood dream. 

China also qualified after sitting third on the rankings.

In the women's, China - who won bronze in Tokyo - finished on top of the rankings in front of USA and France.

How will the other teams qualify for the Olympics? 

A trio of 3x3 Olympic qualifying tournaments will determine the last five spots per gender for 3x3's second appearance at the Olympics.

Mark these dates down because Olympic dreams will be on the line. It's a long four years until the next Olympics in Los Angeles! 

FIBA Universality Olympic Qualifying Tournament 1 (Hong Kong,  China, April 12-14)
FIBA Universality Olympic Qualifying Tournament 2 (Utsunomiya, Japan, May 3-5)
FIBA Olympic Qualifying Tournament (Debrecen, Hungary,  May 16-19)

Who are the reigning Olympic gold medalists? 

3x3 power Latvia created history by winning the first men's gold medal after superstar Karlis Lasmanis hit an epic two-piece buzzer beater to down ROC in an epic decider.

USA, brimming with WNBA talent, were too good for ROC in the women's gold medal decider as they continued a proud tradition for their country in hoops at the Olympics. 

FIBA