How many time-outs does a 3x3 team get?
I · Intermediate · The game · 3 of 7One. Each team has a single time-out of 30 seconds in a game, and a player or the substitute asks for it. It can be taken only when the ball is dead, before a check-ball or a free throw. A time-out that is not used may be carried into overtime.
How it works
- One each: each team is allowed one time-out.
- Length: every time-out lasts 30 seconds.
- Who asks: a player or the substitute. There is no coach to do it.
- When: only at a time-out opportunity, which starts when the ball is dead and ends before the check-ball or the free throw is taken.
- Not with a live ball: no time-out is given while the ball is live.
- Overtime: an unused time-out "may be carried over".
- TV time-outs: at official competitions, or where the organiser decides, two more are given, at the first dead ball after the clock shows 6:59 and 3:59.
- Injury: a player who recovers during a time-out taken by either team may stay in the game.
The glossary has the time-out and substitution.
Tricky cases
Can a team call a time-out while it is dribbling?
No. The ball must be dead.
Can the substitute call the time-out from the seat?
Yes. A time-out is an interruption asked for by a player or a substitute.
A team did not use its time-out in regular time. Can it use it in overtime?
Yes. It carries over.
Do TV time-outs count against a team?
No. They are in addition to each team's own time-out.
Why the rule exists
A 10-minute game with a 12-second shot clock leaves no room for the long breaks of the five-a-side game. One short time-out gives the players a single chance to stop a run of points or agree a last play, and they have to decide for themselves when to spend it.
Where it differs
| Where | What changes | Source |
|---|---|---|
| FIBA 3x3 rules | One time-out of 30 seconds each | Art. 18.2 |
| Official competitions | Two TV time-outs as well | Art. 18.2.2 |
| Under-12 | Recommended: no time-outs | Appendix E |
| Five-a-side basketball | Five time-outs of one minute for each team | ../5x5/ set |
From the rule book
FIBA, Official 3x3 Basketball Rules 2026 (valid as of 1 January 2026), Articles 5.7 and 18.1 to 18.2.7, and Appendix E. Official document:FIBA Official 3x3 Basketball Rules (PDF).