The next generation of basketball talent took centre stage in London this week as the inaugural Jr. NBA 3v3 Primary School Finals brought high-energy competition to the University of East London’s SportsDock.
After a city-wide tournament featuring nearly 350 teams from across the capital, 10 primary school squads battled it out in the final showdown on Friday 5 June — with Latchmere School emerging as the first-ever champions.
Organised by London Marathon Events in collaboration with the National Basketball Association (NBA), the tournament marks a major milestone in expanding grassroots basketball in the UK.
Latchmere School Make History as First Jr. NBA 3v3 Primary Champions
In a tightly contested final, Latchmere School (Kingston Upon Thames) defeated Southbank International School (Central London) 14–11 to lift the trophy and secure their place in Jr. NBA history.
Southbank International kept the pressure on until the final minute, sinking a crucial three-pointer to narrow the gap, but Latchmere held firm to secure victory in a dramatic finish.
PE coach Mr C. Matthew praised his team’s commitment, saying:
“I am so proud of the team’s commitment and how much each of them have trained both inside and outside of school. The way they performed today was superb.”
Among the standout performers were siblings Lyric (Year 5) and Liana (Year 6), who played key roles in the winning team.
Lyric added:
“Today was very exciting and I am so happy that we won. It’s a pleasure to play with my sister because we know each other well and it helps us play together.”
As champions, Latchmere School will also receive a brand-new basketball hoop to help inspire more young players to take up the sport.
Fast-Paced 3v3 Format Brings New Energy to School Sport
The tournament showcased the exciting 3v3 basketball format — a fast, dynamic version of the game played on a half-court with a single hoop and a 12-second shot clock.
Designed to encourage quick decision-making, teamwork, and creativity, the format is increasingly being used to introduce young players to basketball in an accessible and engaging way.
The programme, originally launched for secondary schools in 2025, was expanded this year to include Years 5 and 6 pupils — creating a clear pathway for younger children to get involved in competitive basketball.
Schools Across London Compete in City-Wide Tournament
From nearly 350 participating teams, the top 10 schools that reached the final represented all corners of London, including:
- Latchmere Primary
- Salusbury Primary
- Rhodes Avenue
- Southbank International School
- Manorfield Primary
- St Mary’s Primary
- St Raphael’s Primary
- Greenleaf Primary
- Duncombe Primary
- Fern Hill School
Manorfield Primary secured third place after a close playoff victory against Salusbury Primary in another nail-biting encounter.
Leadership Praises Youth Development and Growing Participation
Polly Irvine, Children and Young People Engagement and Activations Manager at London Marathon Events, highlighted the wider impact of the initiative:
“It’s been brilliant to see the first-ever Jr. NBA 3v3 primary school tournament come to life, with so much energy, enthusiasm and talent on display.”
She added that the programme has helped students develop far beyond sport alone, improving confidence, teamwork, and communication.
Alongside the competition, organisers are also hosting free coaching clinics for participating teachers, helping schools continue developing 3v3 basketball programmes long after the finals.
More about community sport initiatives can be found on London Marathon Events.
Secondary School Finals Set for Iconic Trafalgar Square Return
The Jr. NBA 3v3 excitement is far from over.
On Thursday 9 July, the secondary school finals will return to the iconic setting of Trafalgar Square for the second consecutive year, showcasing some of the best young basketball talent in the UK.
More information on youth basketball development can be found via the official NBA site: NBA Basketball Development.
Information about the host venue can be found here: University of East London.
About Jr. NBA 3v3
The Jr. NBA 3v3 programme is a grassroots initiative designed to introduce young players to basketball through a simplified, fast-paced version of the game. It aims to grow participation, build confidence, and develop skills in a fun and competitive environment.
