Basketball fans in the capital are in for a treat when the compact version of the game gets into competition mode next month.

Bayon Airlines, in association with telco Smart, will organise the country’s first 3x3 basketball tournament at the Premium Sports Club in Tuol Kork on August 16, with 40 teams scheduled to take part in the day-long event.

According to the organisers, the tournament, endorsed by the International Basketball Federation (FIBA), will count for player world rankings.

3x3 is played by teams of three players each with one substitute.

Half a regulation court is used and both sides shoot at the same basket in 10-minute games.

The event has been limited to 40 teams with a joining fee of $20 each on a first-come, first-serve basis.

The field will be split into eight groups of five teams each. The top two from each group then make the knockout phase.

Teams wishing to take part can register:1) Online at the official FIBA 3x3 website: 3x3planet.com; 2) At Bayon Airlines offices, CEIB Building, 6th floor, Russian Boulevard Monday to Friday, 8am to 5pm and via email at [email protected]; 3) Or phone 093 699 076.