Five Spots: Spacing in 3v3

Five spots are marked with hula hoops outside the lane (top, two wings, two corners), and attackers must occupy them without doubling up. It works spacing, passing and creating room for 1v1.

How to play

1. 3v0: each attacker takes a different hoop; after passing, move to an open hoop (4 min).
2. 3v3 with passive defense: if two off-ball attackers stand in the same or adjacent hoops, the team loses possession (5 min).
3. Live 3v3; the spot rule only applies to players without the ball (8 min).
4. Reflection in place: why does space make 1v1 and passing easier? (3 min).

Rules

• The hoop marks the area; you don't need to stand inside it.
• Man-to-man, no-contact defense.
• After a basket or turnover, the other team inbounds from the top hoop.
• Switch opponents every four minutes.

Variations

Adaptations

• Students with visual impairments: textured mats replace hoops and a teammate calls out the open spot.
• Wheelchair users: their spot is enlarged and they get one push of leeway when moving.
• Students who lose track tactically: carry a card showing the five spots.

Learning goals

• Spread out on offense.
• Move to open space after passing.
• Connect spacing with having more options.

Equipment for a class of 25

• basketballs: 6
• basketball hoops: 6
• hula hoops: 30
• pinnies: 15

Teacher tip

Set the hoops at every basket before class. The usual mistake is everyone drifting toward the ball, so freeze play and have them look for empty hoops.

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