B-A-S-K-E-T: Slow-Paced Copycat Shooting
A calm version of the classic copycat shooting game: whoever scores calls a shot, and anyone who misses copying it gets a letter of B-A-S-K-E-T. It brings intensity down while working on accuracy and sportsmanship.
How to play
- Groups of four at each hoop decide the shooting order (1 min).
- The first player picks a close shot and describes it out loud; if it goes in, the others must copy it and anyone who misses takes a letter (3 min).
- Second round: called shots must add a twist, such as shooting after a pivot or with feet together (3 min).
- Last few minutes: weak-hand shots or bank shots only (3 min).
Rules
- Always walk, including to get rebounds.
- All shots are taken from inside or right next to the lane.
- Spelling the word doesn't knock you out: note it and start a new word.
- Wait your turn; no shooting at the same time.
Variations
Easier
Play with a longer word, BASKETBALL, and shoot from one step away from the rim.
Standard
The word BASKET with close-range shots.
Harder
A short word, HOOP, and the shot caller must say beforehand whether it will be a swish or a bank shot.
Adaptations
- Wheelchair users: play at a lowered hoop or a hoop hung on the wall bars.
- Students with visual impairments: a partner claps under the rim to guide the shot.
- Students with low shooting confidence: may move one step closer each turn.
Learning goals
- Adjust shooting force at short range.
- Handle misses calmly and with good sportsmanship.
- Cool down with a calm motor task.
Equipment for a class of 25
- basketballs: 8
- basketball hoops: 6
Teacher tip
With few hoops, use groups of five. The usual problem is long shots speeding things up, so keep the space to the lane.
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