How to How Not to Be Obnoxious on the Pickup Basketball Court

Whether playing on the street or in the church gymnasium, there are unwritten rules of conduct in pickup basketball. It might look unorganized and unprofessional, but there is a specific way in which you're expected to carry yourself. Follow the rules and it doesn't matter if you don't actually have skill – you still might be invited back.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. You don't have to shoot every time you touch the ball. Remember to pass occasionally. Everyone's there to have fun, not watch you go 2 for 32.

2. Don't be a "flopper." Fouls are part of the game when you are not a professional basketball player. Only call the major ones, and never take an offensive foul.

3. Don't trash talk. No one wants to be embarrassed on the blacktop. Choose your words carefully. There's a fine line between some camaraderie between friends and showing someone up. Just because it's a friendly game doesn't mean the action won't get heated.

4. It's OK to want to win. It's OK to not want to lose. But this is not the NBA. Play hard, try your best and if you lose, shake everyone's hand. Berating your teammates and yelling at the opposing team are both ingredients that will get you univited to play. No one likes a hothead.

Tips & Warnings

• There's no need to be flashy. Play your game. Throwing behind-the-back passes when you can't complete a straight-forward one will just upset your teammates.
• If you knock someone down, pick them up. If you accidentally foul someone too hard, apologize.