A total of 40 participating squads, 20 men's and 20 women's, will take part in the competition which is scheduled to run until Saturday (October 15).

A twist on traditional basketball, 3x3 games see players face off on a basketball half-court.

Two years ago, at the World Championships in Russia, the Qatari team won the men's title against all odds after beating Serbia 18-13 in the final.

It would be a remarkable achievement if they were to win the crown once again as they have been drawn in the 'group of death' which includes a rematch of the final two years ago.

As well as the Serbians they have been drawn against Russia in the early round with only the best two teams advancing to the quarter-finals.

To add even further interest Italy, quarter finalists at the 2016 European Championships, and two time FIBA 3x3 Under-18 World Championships winners New Zealand, are also in Group A.

In contrast, current European champions Slovenia have possibly the easiest draw after they were placed in Group B along with Andorra, Egypt, Indonesia and Uruguay, all of whom have never reached the quarter-finals of this event.

Meanwhile, in the women's competition, the US team has dominated in recent years winning the two previous editions.

The American team have been drawn in Pool C with two European countries, Italy and Spain, and two Asian teams, Chinese Taipei and Japan.

Elsewhere, recently crowned European champions Hungary will headline Pool B with Australia and their two-time Olympian Jennifer Screen.

Andorra, Argentina and Israel complete the pool.

The top-two placed teams from each pool will advance to a standard knock-out round which starts at the quarter-finals stage.

The competition is scheduled to be broadcast live on the recently launched Olympic Channel.