How to Practice Pickup Basketball Etiquette

Pickup hoops is a far cry from organized basketball, with much more emphasis on physical play, one-on-one moves and trash talking. Here's what to do when you're ready to lace up and step on the court.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

1. Find a game - specifically one that suits your skill level and doesn't draw huge crowds, if possible.
2. Reserve your spot. Find out who's in line for the next game ("Who's got next?") and put yourself at the end of the line ("Who's got last? OK, I've got last now").
3. Learn the court's rules. Usually, pickup games are played to 11 points, with each basket worth one point. However, winning scores and point value for baskets can vary at different courts.
4. Warm up before playing. Stretch to avoid injury, and practice your dribbling and shooting to avoid embarrassment.
5. Make consistent calls during the game. All players are responsible for making their own calls; do so promptly, accurately and loudly.
6. Be a good sport. Shake hands with your opponents after the game when you win or lose, unless, of course, you feel cheated.

Tips & Warnings

• Aggressive play is rewarded in pickup hoops, since there are no referees or foul-outs. Play hard if you expect to win.
• Ask players in line ahead of you if they need to add players to their squad. They may add you to their team, getting you on the court sooner.
• You're probably better off skipping the trash talk unless the following applies: you have the skills to back up your words, or you're playing with people you know well. Problems can arise if trash talking gets out of hand.
• When you're practicing on a court with a game in progress, always pay attention to that game. Leave the court when the ball moves to your side of the court or face the wrath of those players.