Dribble Rock-Paper-Scissors Chase
In pairs, each dribbling their own ball, students play rock-paper-scissors with the free hand; the winner dribbles to their line and the loser chases while dribbling. It gets bodies moving and builds heads-up dribbling and reaction.
How to play
- Every student has a basketball; form pairs facing each other at center court, with a line of cones 6 yards behind each partner.
- Activation (2 minutes): free dribbling around the court with hand and speed changes on the whistle.
- In pairs, both dribble in place with the dominant hand and play rock-paper-scissors with the other hand, saying "Rock, paper, scissors, shoot!"
- The winner dribbles toward their line; the loser chases while dribbling and tries to tag their back before they get there.
- On a tie, both dribble one lap around their partner and play again; each duel won or tag made is worth 1 point.
- Play 4 minutes and switch partners halfway; in the last two minutes dribble with the non-dominant hand.
Rules
- If you lose control of the ball, get it and keep going, but that duel is over.
- Tag with an open hand on the back, never on the ball and never pushing.
- Pairs stay at least 3 yards apart so the chases don't cross.
- No late throws: show your hand at the same time as "shoot."
Variations
Easier
Escape and chase at a fast walk while dribbling.
Standard
Dribble with the dominant hand and race to the line 6 yards away.
Harder
Dribble with the non-dominant hand and do a crossover before taking off.
Adaptations
- Limited mobility: dribble seated or in a wheelchair and let the game alone decide the point, with no chase; the partner dribbles a lap around them.
- Students with autism or shy students: practice the game first without a ball and keep the same partner throughout.
- Lower dribbling skill: allow catching the ball and restarting the dribble once during the chase.
Learning goals
- Dribble with the head up while making a decision with the other hand.
- React to the result by switching from a stationary dribble to a speed dribble.
- Accept the outcome and play with good sportsmanship.
Equipment for a class of 25
- basketballs: 25
- cones: 26
Teacher tip
Many students stare at the ball instead of their partner: award a bonus point for playing the hand without looking at the dribble. If you are short on balls, play in groups of three: one waits on the line and replaces whoever loses.
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