FIBA 3x3 Sees Record-Breaking Social Media Growth
[Image courtesy of FIBA 3x3]
MIES (Switzerland) – The 2022 season was not only impressive on the half-court but also on social media, with FIBA 3x3 achieving record engagement numbers for the 21-point game. Reflecting the significant global growth of 3x3, particularly among younger audiences, the season's social media performance showcased its escalating popularity. Following last year's historic Olympic debut, engagement numbers soared, highlighting the sport's increasing global appeal.
Social Media Milestones:
FIBA 3x3's online presence saw substantial growth across various platforms in 2022.
- 3.4 million followers across all channels (a 27% increase)
- 228,000 followers on TikTok (a 157% growth)
- 23% increase in Instagram followers
3x3's success extended to video platforms and its reach in the massive Chinese market:
- 525 million video views** —the best year ever!
- Sevenfold increase in followers on Chinese platforms Douyin and Weibo
- 64 million total engagements in 2022
- 450,000 YouTube subscribers (up 16%)
- 8 million website views
Groundbreaking Success on Twitch
In a landmark event, FIBA partnered with celebrity streamer Ibai Llanos to host the first-ever FIBA 3x3 Streamers Tournament on September 12, 2022. This innovative concept brought together top streamers and content creators from Spain and Latin America to compete in an official 3x3 event.
The tournament was a massive hit, becoming the number one most-watched stream worldwide on Twitch that day. It attracted an average of 150,000 live viewers, peaking at 193,000. The participating influencers generated over 20 million views by reviewing, reacting, and sharing content post-event.
This successful event also led to 10,000 new followers across FIBA 3x3 platforms, highlighting the creative strategies employed to introduce 3x3 basketball to new audiences.
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Looking Ahead
As these record-breaking numbers indicate, the popularity of 3x3 basketball is on a meteoric rise worldwide. The stage is set for even greater achievements in 2023, as FIBA continues to innovate and expand its reach. Stay tuned and join the 3x3 movement!
The contents of this blog originally appeared on www.fiba3x3.com.
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