# How to Run a Basketball Tournament — Complete Guide

A comprehensive guide for tournament directors on how to plan, schedule, and execute a basketball tournament for 5v5 or 3x3 competitions.

## Step 1: Choosing 5v5 vs 3x3 competition formats

Decide between 5v5 full-court league setups or fast-paced 3x3 half-court tournaments based on court availability.

## Step 2: Court scheduling and time allocation math

Calculate court requirements using: (Total Games × Slot Length) ÷ Available Courts. Allocate 50–60 minutes per 5v5 game slot.

## Step 3: Tournament rules, fouls and overtime policies

Define running clock rules, team foul penalties, overtime rules, and tiebreaker criteria before registration opens.

## Step 4: Referees, table officials and digital scoring

Assign court referees and use digital table scoring tablets so live standings and point differentials update automatically.

## Step 5: Playoffs, awards and wrap-up

Run championship bracket games, present trophies and MVP awards, and publish post-tournament stats online.