FIBA 3x3 Basketball to bring the hype to Rocky this weekend
Published on 18 July 2025
Not-for-profit group Fulfilling Dreams will bring competition, professional basketball skills and entertainment to Rockhampton this weekend as they hold a FIBA 3X3 PLAYGRND Showdown and community skills camp at Bravus Rockhampton Arena.
Now an Olympic sport, the fast and exciting 3X3 basketball competition will see around 100 competitors in 30 teams battle it out for their chance to progress to the FIBA 3X3 PLAYGRND Showdown final in Brisbane in September, and then potentially even a wild card entry to the World Final in Macau, China.
Rockhampton Regional Council Communities Culture and Heritage and Deputy Mayor Drew Wickerson said Council was pleased to provide $7,000 from the Community Assistance Program (CAP) for the event to allow Fulfilling Dreams to bring something unique, fun and competitive to the region.
“Nominations have been strong for the Open Men’s and Youth divisions being held on Saturday with local teams entering and some travelling from around CQ to compete so it’s a huge win for the region,” Cr Wickerson said.
“Through CAP, Council is committed to supporting events that build community connections and enhance our region, so to have a FIBA accredited - International Basketball Federation - event held right here in Rockhampton is a wonderful thing for young sportspeople in the region.
“The games are only 10 minutes long with a 12 second shot clock, and with music and court-side commentary, we’re sure there will be non-stop action, competitive rivalry and fun.
“There will also be a community skills camp on Sunday 20 July for young people and all abilities and we encourage locals to book in to get some basketball tips from professionals and learn some new 3x3 basketball skills.”
Fulfilling Dreams Inc Secretary Deola D’brown said the FIBA 3X3 PLAYGRND Showdown concept was fast, exciting and accessible, with smaller teams meaning lower costs and fewer players needed.
“It’s perfect for regional communities or friends wanting to enter together,” Mr D’brown said.
“FIBA 3X3 basketball is now an Olympic sport and one of the only sports you can go from the streets to the Olympic and elite pathway.
“There’s solid interest from Rockhampton’s local basketball community as well as some teams coming from nearby towns, keen to test themselves in the 3x3 format and chase the pathway opportunities the event offers.
“For players it’s a chance to test themselves in a fast, exciting format, while for spectators it’s high-energy basketball and entertainment rolled into one.”
The FIBA 3X3 PLAYGRND Showdown basketball competition will run from 2pm to 8pm on Saturday 19 July at Bravus Arena, Huish Drive, Rockhampton.
Entry is free and the event will combine music, crowd engagement and a fun atmosphere.
The FIBA 3X3 PLAYGRND Community Skills Camp for all abilities will run from 10am to 12pm on Sunday 20 July, open to ages 8 to 18.
Interested participants are encouraged to register at https://madeconceptspty.com/fiba-3x3-registration/ or visit the Made Concepts Facebook page.
The Community Assistance Program supports non-profit community based organisations with funding for grants and sponsorships towards projects and events that enhance the region’s well-being. For more information and how to apply, contact Council Community Services on 4936 8368 or visit our website.