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3x3 Tips from the Pros
Q&A with Tarryn Algar
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There's no doubt about it. If you have a discussion about UK streetball, Tarryn's name comes up. He's a skilled player who is deadly in iso. He's a freestyler, head basketball coach and part of one of the UK's best 3x3 teams, Asphalt Assassins, who are going to Toronto soon to compete in the Red Bull Reign World Finals.
He has the outfit to match the game too. The long baggy shorts, the fresh kicks and of course, the indisputably iconic headband with the Jordan logo slightly to the side.
Tarryn's getting older (as he admits) and he's a proud husband and dad now, but don't let that fool you. His determination to win is still strong and he'll school you with a signature streetball move before you know what hit you. Tarryn was part of the GG3x3 #ball4life promo and proud to say he's a friend of the GG3x3. Below is his take on 3x3 and UK basketball.​
GG3x3: When did you start playing basketball and what got you into 3x3?
TA: I've been playing it in the park since I picked up a ball when I was 14yrs old. I had an outdoor court near where I lived (Red Top) and it was like my second home as I’d play there at EVERY opportunity. Because I've been playing the parks for so long, 3x3 came really naturally to me, the quick plays, the fast-paced ball etc.
GG3x3: ​What’s your training schedule like ahead of a 3x3 tournament?
TA: Just play as much as possible beforehand. It can be difficult as being a “grown up” can get in the way and restrict playing as much as one would like.
GG3x3: ​What’s the best tip you can give to a 3x3 player?
TA: Be VERSATILE!!! You have to be able to do a little bit of everything!There's so many switches that if you're a big and can't guard a guard or the other way round, you’ll get exposed for all to see!
GG3x3: ​What's your go to move?
TA: I’ve got more moves than a bowl of jelly haha. I guess people know me for my hezzi. I’ve got a load of different moves for different areas on the floor and counters too.
GG3x3: ​Do you think playing 3x3 has helped other aspects of your general 5x5 game?
TA: 100%. I’ve always been a player that likes to bring that street flava to the hardwood so my 1on1 game is pretty good, breaking my man down so as to get to the hoop or dish to a teammate.
GG3x3: ​If you could pick one player in the NBA or WNBA to play with, who would it be and why?
TA: Jamal Crawford as he’s got that street style to his game and has been doing it for yeeeeeaaaars...like myself.
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GG3x3: ​What’s your favourite UK court to play at and why? (can be outdoor or indoor)
TA This is tough to answer because my court (Red Top) back home in Hull has so many memories attached to it as I grew up on that court. Ravenscourt Park in West was the court I played on damn near EVERY weekend when I moved to London but now it has to be Turnpike Lane because it’s glass backboards, spring loaded rims & floodlights. Plus it’s kinda gritty too which I weirdly like.
What are your thoughts on the growth of 3x3 basketball in the UK and about 3x3 being in the Olympics for the first time next year?
TA: Amazing!! It’s been a slow process but it’s finally got there.. 3x3/Streetball in the Olympics!!!! “from Street to Elite”.. Its gonna be HUGE soon, I can’t wait!
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GG3x3: Tell us something about you that people might not know?
I was in the Marvel film Dr Strange.