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20 Bizarre Ideas to Boost Your Basketball Game

By Sarah Hauge, Publisher, Macaroni Kid, Englewood, Greenwood Village, Centennial March 20, 2019

A basketball court is a blank canvas when it comes to ball games. Go from boring to brilliant with this bunch of bizarre basketball twists: 

1. Play on wheels: Put on some roller skates or spin around the court on a scooter.

2. Glow in the dark: Coat your ball in glow-in-the-dark paint and line the court with glowsticks. 

3. Chalk it up: Use chalk to draw obstacles on the court. Don't get caught stepping on the obstacles.

4. Use your feet: Grab a soccer ball and put your kicking skills to the test. 

5. Don't let the ball touch the ground: Bump, set, swoosh! Use a volleyball for an in-the-air b-ball game.

6. Introduce multiple balls: Add a few players and toss in some extra basketballs. 

7. Hop for hoops: No running or walking is allowed- just hopping!

8. Add an eggcellent challenge: Play a game while each player holds an egg - it's not allowed to break!

9. Find your balance: Take turns making free throws while something balances on your head.

10. Play as pirates: Wear an eye patch and talk like a pirate. Have your point guard wear a stuffed animal on his/her shoulder.

11. Quiet the courtTest your teamwork by playing a game without speaking.

12. Handle a handful: Play a regular game of b-ball while each player wears oven mitts.

13. Back it up: Move around the court backward and shoot the ball backward as well. 

14. Go for granny: Shots must be taken granny-style... every one of them!

15. Have fun in formal wear: Bargain shop a local thrift store for some dressy attire to wear on the court.

16. Bust a bounce: Pass the ball quickly because traveling rules still apply. The ball may not touch the ground- ever!

17. Stay on topic: Think of a category. Every time the ball is passed, the player who throws the ball must shout a word that stays on topic.

18. Don't miss: If you miss your shot, you must sit where you are until another basket is made.

19. Cause a racket: Swap the basketball for a tennis ball. Each player uses a tennis racket instead of their hands.

20. Keep connected: Head to the hardware store for two long ropes. Each player must hold on to the team's rope at all times. 


Want to find a basketball court near you?
Look for the 🏀 (basketball) symbol in our local Parks & Playgrounds guides.