Bank Shot Box Team Challenge
A team challenge for learning the bank shot by aiming at the top corner of the painted square from five spots at a 45-degree angle. Only shots that hit the backboard first score. Students work on accuracy, adjusting their aim point, and coaching each other.
How to play
- If the square on the backboard is hard to see, mark it with chalk; chalk five spots on each side of the basket at 45 degrees, from about 3 to 13 feet from the rim (2 min).
- Explain the rule: from 45 degrees, aim at the near top corner of the square; the ball must hit the backboard and go in.
- Form teams of three on each side of a basket; each player shoots twice from spot 1 and moves to the next spot only after making one off the glass.
- Each bank shot scores as many points as the spot number; a swish without the backboard does not count.
- Play 3-minute rounds switching between the right and left sides; four rounds in all (12 min).
- At the end, each team shares where they started missing and which correction worked (1 min).
Rules
- Only shots that hit the backboard before going in count.
- Shoot from the marked spot without creeping closer.
- Safety: wait outside the lane while a teammate is shooting.
- The team calls out its score after every make.
Variations
Easier
Use only the three closest spots and allow three tries per spot.
Standard
Move through five spots at 45 degrees, scoring only bank shots.
Harder
Shoot off one rhythm dribble and a jump stop at every spot.
Adaptations
- A student with limited mobility shoots from the closer spots with a lighter ball, and their points count the same.
- For students with low vision, stick bright tape on the corner of the square.
- Higher-skilled students must make two in a row at each spot to move on.
Learning goals
- Use the backboard to shoot from a 45-degree angle.
- Adjust the aim point based on distance.
- Help teammates with specific feedback on their shot.
Equipment for a class of 25
- basketballs: 12
- basketball hoops: 6
- chalk: 6
- cones: 12
Teacher tip
Explain why the backboard helps: from the angle it gives a bigger target than the rim alone. Put the two teams on opposite sides of each basket so their rebounds don't collide.
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