Introduction to Basketball Shooting Games
One of the biggest challenges for youth basketball coaches is keeping practice sessions engaging for kids while still providing a valuable learning experience. Kids learn the game of basketball through repetition. However, if you’re constantly doing the same thing repeatedly, things can get boring quickly. To address this, it helps to shift the content you’re covering every 10 minutes, introduce some competition, and ensure fun is had throughout.
It’s essential not to focus on one aspect of the game for an extended period. Instead, move quickly from one exercise to the next. For instance, start with a dribbling exercise, transition to a shooting skill game, and then move on to rebounding practice. Teaching in bite-sized chunks keeps things fresh and keeps players interested in learning more.
Players need to understand the proper shooting form for all of these shooting games. With the correct shooting form, games like these reinforce good shooting habits.
Around the World
This is a competitive shooting game where players shoot from seven selected spots on the basketball court. Choose spots within a player’s shooting range, for example, shots between 12 to 18 feet for 12-year-olds.
- The objective is to move “around the world” in a counter-clockwise direction by making shots from the first spot to the last spot.
- To begin, the first player shoots from the initial spot. If they make the basket, they move to the next spot. If they miss, they can call “Chance.”
- The first person to successfully make all their shots from the selected spots wins the game.
Tips for Success
- Focus on maintaining proper form with each shot.
- Encourage players to visualize success before each attempt.
The Mikan Drill Game
Named after George Mikan, known as “Mr. Basketball,” this game requires players to shoot layups off their inside foot using their outside hand, alternating sides of the basket for 30 seconds. The goal is to make the most baskets in that timeframe.
Best Swishes
In this game, two players stand on opposite sides of the key, near the first block. Taking alternating turns shooting the basketball, players receive +1 point for a swish, 0 points for a non-swish make, and -1 for a miss.
Encouraging Friendly Competition
- Emphasize accuracy over speed.
- Create a reward system for consistent swishes.
Knockout
Also known as Lightning, this game is traditionally a favorite among the under-12 age group. Players line up at the free-throw line. The objective is for the second player shooting to make their shot before the first player scores.
Strategy and Fun
- Encourage players to remain calm under pressure.
- Use this game to teach resilience after missed shots.
H-O-R-S-E
To play H-O-R-S-E, players decide the shooting order. The designated first shooter can attempt a shot from anywhere on or off the court.
Creativity and Skill
- Encourage players to attempt creative shots.
- Foster an environment where players can express their unique styles.
The “21” Game
This is a shooting game where the first player starts by shooting from the free-throw line. If successful, they earn a point and continue shooting from the free-throw line.
Building Consistency
- Focus on consistent shooting techniques.
- Encourage regular practice to improve free-throw success rates.
The 1-3-5 Game
In this challenge, players aim to earn as many points as possible in 60 seconds of shooting.
Speed and Precision
- Balance speed with accuracy for optimal scoring.
- Track progress over time to highlight improvements.
The Baker’s Dozen Lay-up Game
Divide your players into two groups, each starting at different hoops. The goal is to make lay-ups, with one point awarded for each shot made, until the first team reaches 13 points.
We hope you enjoyed our collection of fun basketball games for kids. The more fun kids have playing the game, the more likely they’ll want to return for more. As Anatole France once wrote, “90 percent of education is encouragement.” Encourage more; criticize less. Inspire your young athletes today!
