Beat the Pro Shooting Game
A shooting game where each student plays against an imaginary pro: every make earns one point, but every miss gives the pro two. It works on shooting from several spots, focus, and setting goals that match each student's level.
How to play
- Pairs at each basket, two or three pairs per basket. Use flat disc cones to mark five mid-range spots: both corners, both wings, and straight on. Explain scoring: a make is 1 point for you, a miss is 2 points for the pro (2 min).
- Round 1: the shooter goes through the five spots in order and repeats while the partner rebounds, passes back, and calls out the score. First to 7 wins (3 min).
- Switch roles: the rebounder shoots and the shooter rebounds and keeps score (3 min).
- Round 2: each student chooses a distance based on round one, closer after a loss, farther after a win. Play to 11 (3 min).
- Each pair shares their result and which spot was most reliable for each of them (1 min).
Rules
- Make: 1 point for the shooter. Miss: 2 points for the pro.
- The rebounding partner calls the score out loud and honestly.
- Safety: each pair chases only its own ball and doesn't cut under the rim while another pair is shooting.
Variations
Easier
Misses give the pro only 1 point and shots are taken one step outside the lane.
Standard
Make is 1, miss is 2 for the pro, playing to 7 and then to 11.
Harder
Shoot off a pass with one dribble first, and the pro gets 3 points per miss.
Adaptations
- Students who use wheelchairs: shoot from closer spots, with the partner passing the ball into their lap.
- Students who are deaf or hard of hearing: show the score with fingers as well as calling it out.
- Each student sets their own distance, so everyone has a realistic challenge.
Learning goals
- Improve shooting accuracy from different spots.
- Stay focused under scoreboard pressure.
- Adjust personal shooting goals based on performance.
Equipment for a class of 25
- basketball: 13
- basketball hoops: 6
- flat disc cones: 30
Teacher tip
The key is for each student to pick a distance where they make about half their shots. If someone always loses, move them closer; winning a few rounds keeps motivation high.
PatioLab has "Beat the Pro Shooting Game" and 2499 more activities ready to drag into your lesson and run from your phone in the gym.
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