Hesson’s last-gasp shot edges England past Australia in 3x3 basketball final

The first edition of the frenetic, hyperactive game of 3x3 basketball at the Commonwealth Games came to an end on Tuesday evening as England defeated Australia 17-16 in the most dramatic circumstances. England triumphed with a game-winning two‑pointer in overtime to secure the first men’s gold medal of the Games.

Like the Olympics, which also ushered 3x3 basketball into its fold in Tokyo last year, the arrival of the event at the Commonwealth Games is reflective of the push towards a younger audience, with the aim to include more “urban” events.

Even though no participating country was able to qualify for the Olympics, 3x3 basketball has clearly made a positive impact on the Games, with handsome crowds since the early rounds at the Smithfield building site, a venue adjacent to the beach volleyball stadium.

The men’s and women’s wheelchair finals immediately preceded the non-disabled athletes, with full crowds present as Australia’s men edged past Canada 11-9, then Canada’s women beat Australia 14-5.

By the time the England men’s team entered the court, the atmosphere was searing. The players continually called for the crowd, which responded in turn, cheering for its team, booing Australia during their free throw attempts and making their presence known with an intensity not normally associated with Commonwealth Games sports.

The sport’s defining quality is its speed. Seemingly every aspect of the sport is cut down in size compared to traditional basketball in order to create an even more rapid spectacle. It is played out on half a basketball court with only one hoop to attack between the two teams of three, there are 12 seconds on the shot clock and matches won by the first team to reach 21 points, with the leading team