Courting Olympic success

"The biggest difference from the five-a-side game, and perhaps the biggest challenge for the youngsters to overcome, is that we are playing at a much quicker pace and with higher intensity over multiple games each day," said the 30-year-old sharpshooter.

"Physicality is what makes the difference on the international stage."

Inspired by street hoops, 3x3 basketball is often played on an outdoor half court at iconic urban locations, with the fast-paced action usually accompanied by booming urban music soundtracks.

The game features a 12-second shot clock, half the time used in regular five-a-side games.

Shots made outside the traditional 3-point line earn two points, and those inside count for one point. Teams switch from defense to offense straight after scoring or after clearing the ball to outside the arc following a rebound.

The lightning-quick transitions in 3x3 quickly expose any weaknesses in a player's game.

"After competing for years on the international stage, I've learned that you have to be able to do everything on the court to prevail," said forward Wan Jiyuan.

"As a traditional post player, I will work on my ability to create shots off dribbles and improve my 3-point shooting percentage this season to complement the team's offensive strength," added Wan, who was voted the five-a-side WCBA league's 2022-23 season MVP in February after averaging 22.9 points, 7.1 rebounds and 2.3 assists for Zhejiang.

sunxiaochen@chinadaily.com.cn