philosophy & rules

Philosophy

Midwest 3 on 3 is a league for the players. Kids need to enjoy the sport to want to improve. Our league's key focus is FUN! This is an opportunity to develop basketball skills in a fun, low-stress environment. We encourage healthy competition in which kids play hard and play to win but not at the expense of belittling opponents, yelling at officials or displaying poor sportsmanship. We ask that players conduct themselves appropriately and exhibit good sportsmanship. We ask the same of parents and others who come to watch. Adults, please set a good example for the players.

We know sometimes it is difficult to refrain from "coaching" the teams during play. Certainly some of the younger teams may need help with rules and subbing, but please do not be coaching during play. Let the kids play and figure out some things on their own. So many players have told me they love to just play and know they aren't going to get yelled at!

Rules

• Be on time.
• Do everything in your power not to forfeit. If your team does not show up, another team is not getting to play. Call subs if you need them. However, if your team plays with a non-rostered player, be honest. The other team records the win no matter the score. But please play with subs so we don't have forfeits.
• Games are 20 minutes running time.
• Scoring: 2 points per basket inside the arc. 3 points per basket outside the arc.
• Free Throws: One shot will be given to a player who is fouled in the act of shooting. A missed free throw is a live ball (unless it is an airball). Players should line up per regular foul shot attempt. A free throw is worth 2 points.
• Bonus Free Throws: One shot will be given to a player on ANY foul inside of 4 minutes left in the game.
• Players have 6 seconds to shoot a free throw once the teams are lined up.
• Following a made basket or dead ball, the other team can check the ball in anywhere behind the arc.
• A ball that goes out of bounds under the basket is checked in behind the arc.
• Defense gets all jump balls.
• A defensive rebound must be taken past the arc (this includes airballs). There are no "free backs".
• "Paper, rock, scissors" (PRS) will determine which team gets the ball first. The court monitor assigned to your court will monitor PRS, ref your game, keep score, and record the outcome with the official scorekeeper.
• Ties will be settled with a free-throw shootout.
• League shirts should be worn.
• At the end of the games, it is good sportsmanship to shake hands with your opponents.
• Respect opponents and officials.
• Help to keep the facility clean. Please, pick up your garbage and help put chairs away at the end of the evening.