The Role of 3x3 Basketball in Swiss Basketball’s Strategy: A Missed Opportunity?
Swiss Basketball recently released an ambitious strategy to develop basketball in Switzerland, built around three core objectives: Elevate, Professionalize, and Inspire. With guidance from Deloitte, this strategy promises to strengthen the sport’s foundations nationally and internationally.
It’s an exciting roadmap with the potential to uplift basketball’s profile and impact in the country. However, as an advocate of 3x3 basketball, a discipline with immense potential, I found myself asking: Is 3x3 being overlooked in this strategy?
The Highlights of the Strategy
The new strategy deserves recognition for its comprehensive approach to improving basketball’s ecosystem. Among its notable strengths:
These are commendable initiatives that will undoubtedly benefit the sport. Yet, when we turn to 3x3 basketball, the strategy’s approach feels less defined, less ambitious, and ultimately less aligned with the opportunities this discipline offers.
The Position of 3x3 Basketball
3x3 basketball is mentioned in the strategy, but primarily as a tool for increasing participation and accessibility, rather than as a strategic priority in its own right. Its value as a dynamic, urban, and inclusive format that connects with younger audiences and aligns with cultural trends is underutilized. For example:
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A Missed Opportunity
The potential of 3x3 basketball is undeniable. Its accessibility, fast-paced nature, and cultural resonance make it a powerful avenue for growth. As an Olympic discipline, it offers a unique platform to raise Switzerland’s profile on the global stage. A comparison with the Dutch Basketball Federation provides valuable insights:
What’s Missing?
To fully capitalize on the potential of 3x3 basketball, the following areas need attention:
Looking Ahead
Swiss Basketball’s strategy is a strong step toward elevating basketball in the country. However, to unlock the full potential of 3x3, it’s essential to move beyond viewing it as a tool and embrace it as a strategic priority. This means recognizing its unique value, investing in its growth, and integrating it into the broader basketball ecosystem.
With the right focus, 3x3 basketball could become a transformative force for Swiss basketball, connecting with new audiences, inspiring young players, and raising Switzerland’s profile on the international stage. The foundation is there; now it’s time to seize the opportunity.
Certified Associate in Project Management, Logistic Management
1 个月Hello Nico, first of all, I wish you and your family a Happy and Successful New Year. You know me... I have been working only for 3x3 for 10 years, so I am biased. The possibilities of Swiss and Hungarian basketball are very similar. The 3x3 National Teams have a real chance to participate in the Olympics (as opposed to 5v5). You have organized high-quality events (WT, WS) for years, I am personally convinced of this every year. You have an advantage in the women's line, because the Swiss women's championship is not as strong as the Hungarian one, so it would be easier for players to be involved in 3x3, right? We are now trying to get the 3x3 strategic plan until the Los Angeles Olympics accepted....it's not easy. If you think about it, let's brainstorm together. I am full of ideas....see you soon on the court.
Head of payment and Banking relations
2 个月Nice article This was already the case 10 years ago! And now here we are again!
Business development & Basketball 3x3
2 个月This discipline is a unique opportunity to have international exposure and value in the sport. It will be in 3x3 because of the conditions offered by the country with two pro teams among the top 25. Pioneering teams both in sports and in business development. The federation does not see it this way because of the fear "of change" that exists in the national culture. Lack of professionalization/national strategy (mid-long term) despite having great experts in the country. I would also mention the case of Mongolia, an example of structure and local support. Both countries with no basketball tradition in the top 10 of the 3x3 discipline. It will be like in the Netherlands, with private structures leading the management and development of 3x3 (instead of the federation).
Director at NBA Basketball School ????
2 个月Great read !!! The moment inclusion for strategic growth happens . That’s where you will accomplish innovation !!!
3x3 Basketball Player
2 个月Totally agree! And not just for Switzerland. I think lots of people even actively involved in 3x3, still see it as a tool and some sort of version of basketball. For the real growth of the game, everyone should develop it as an independent (highly prospective in every way!) discipline.