Trafalgar Square was transformed into a vibrant celebration of basketball today as the capital's most talented young players battled for glory in the Jr. NBA 3v3 Finals, the largest school basketball tournament in London.
Set at one of the city’s most iconic landmarks, three courts hosted non-stop action, with fast-paced play and dramatic moments keeping spectators engaged.
Alongside the boys’, girls’ and wheelchair finals, the event also featured primary school coaching clinics and a range of interactive activities, which gave spectators the chance to experience the energy and excitement of 3v3 basketball.
Jr. NBA 3v3, operated by London Marathon Events (LME) in collaboration with the NBA, was launched in 2025, seeking to increase participation in basketball across the capital. Just one year on, the programme is already making a significant impact, with more than 9,000 young people now regularly playing 3v3 basketball, as shown by the 2025 Impact Report.
Today's finals showcased some of the capital’s brightest young talent, with five boys’ teams and five girls’ teams earning their place after progressing through a series of Area Finals, which attracted more than 350 teams.
In the boys’ competition, Lilian Baylis School, representing central London, defeated St Bonaventure’s, representing north London, in a dramatic final that went to extra time. In the end it was Lilian Baylis School that managed to secure the additional two points needed to claim the title. Each player received the coveted winner's ring, awarded to them by Mete Coban MBE, the Deputy Mayor of London.
Their coach, Dominic McDonough, Head Basketball Coach at Lilian Baylis School, said: “I feel ecstatic for the boys, they have worked super hard all year. To find our best form in a 3v3 event like this at Trafalgar Square, playing on one of the biggest stages this city has to offer, is truly amazing. I am so happy for them and super proud.
“We came with our girls' team last year and they made it to the Final where they were runners-up, but it’s fantastic that the boys managed to win. We have lots of players at school who are keen to get involved in this opportunity so I hope we can return next year.”
Benedict, from Lilian Baylis School, said: “The final game was very intense, we had to stay competitive right until the end. I had to keep my mind focused and stay locked in. I play basketball non-stop – it’s basketball all day, every day.”
In the girls' competition it was Riverside School, representing east London, who triumphed against Harris Lowe Academy, representing west London, through a convincing win in the final game.
Coach Stephron, from Riverside School, said: “It was a wonderful 3v3 tournament and the girls played so hard considering the hot weather. They played together as a team and worked well defensively. They have trained so hard, in the mornings, lunchtimes and after school and it’s great that the girls had the chance to play on such an amazing stage here today.”
Chidera, from Riverside School, said: “I feel ecstatic, me and my team played the best we can and, in the end, we got the result that we wanted and deserved. I want to say thank you to everyone who participated and helped to set up the event, it was amazing.”
Mete Coban MBE, the Deputy Mayor of London for Environment and Energy, who attended the Finals said: “What an amazing day, so many people have come out here today to support 3v3 basketball. Basketball is such a growing sport and that’s why what London Marathon Events and the NBA are doing is incredible, they are helping to provide top-quality facilities and opportunities for young Londoners to play. I am so excited about the future of basketball in London.”
Hugh Brasher, CEO of London Marathon Events said: "Seeing Trafalgar Square transformed into a hub of youth basketball today has been incredible. Every child deserves the chance to discover the confidence, friendships and opportunities that sport can provide, and that's exactly what Jr. NBA 3v3 is helping to achieve.
"It's fantastic to see basketball continuing to grow across London, and the passion, energy and talent on display today has been outstanding. The standard of play shows the future of the game is in very good hands."
Neal Meyer, NBA Vice President and Head of Basketball Operations, Europe & Middle East said: “This year’s Jr. NBA 3v3 Finals exceeded expectations and showcased the incredible basketball culture continuing to thrive across London. Seeing Trafalgar Square transformed into a vibrant celebration of the game, with young players at the heart of the action, surrounded by music, entertainment and passionate fans, was truly special.
“The event reflects how basketball brings together communities, creates opportunities for young people and inspires the next generation on and off the court. We’re grateful to London Marathon Events, the Mayor of London and our partners for helping create an unforgettable experience that celebrated the game and the culture that surrounds it.”
The day will conclude this evening with the NBA 3X, a mixed elite 3v3 tournament for content creators, featuring personalities including DJ AG, Darkest Man, Harry Pinero, Elz the Witch and The Royal Guard, who willentertain the crowd with impressive skills, trick shots and even a Dunk Contest.
Spectators can enjoy the NBA 3X from 17:00 today (Thursday 9 July) at Trafalgar Square.
This year Jr. NBA 3v3 also hosted a primary school tournament for pupils in Years 5 and 6. The city-wide competition featured nearly 350 schools with 10 qualifying for an incredible final at University of East London's SportsDock last month. Read more about the final.
Full list of Jr. NBA 3v3 finalists at Trafalgar Square:
- Waldegrave School (Twickenham)
- Harris Lowe Academy Willesden (Willesden)
- Brampton Manor Academy (East Ham)
- Westminster Academy (City of London)
- Riverside School (Haringey)
- Turing House School (Richmond-upon-Thames)
- Queens Park Community School (Brent)
- St Bonaventure's (East Ham)
- Lilian Baylis Technology School (Kennington)
- Dagenham Park Church of England School (Dagenham)