Spacing Game 4-on-4 with Marked Spots
A half-court 4-on-4 game in which the offense must fill five spots marked with hoops on the floor, never with two players in the same spot. It teaches spacing, not crowding the ball, and refilling the spot left open by a cutter.
How to play
- Five hoops on the floor of each half court: point, both wings, both corners. Teams of 4 in pinnies, two games at once, and the rest keep score and rotate (2 min).
- No defense: the passer cuts to the rim and comes out to the empty hoop; everyone else adjusts so no spot is doubled (3 min).
- Passive defense: 4-on-4 with 4 passes before a shot and every spot filled (4 min).
- Live game with man-to-man defense: a basket is 2 points, plus 1 if everyone was on a hoop or cutting at the final pass (8 min).
- Switch opponents and scorekeepers halfway. Wrap-up: the teacher freezes a play and asks which hoop should be filled (3 min).
Rules
- Two offensive players may never share a hoop or stand within 3 yards of each other.
- A cutter who doesn't get the ball must exit away from the ball to the empty hoop.
- Safety: step carefully around the hoops and remove them during the live game if anyone trips; they are only a visual guide.
Variations
Easier
Play 3-on-3 with four hoops and no required cut.
Standard
4-on-4 with five hoops, cuts after passing, and a spacing bonus.
Harder
Remove the hoops, and the teacher freezes play to check whether spacing holds.
Adaptations
- Students who use wheelchairs: play point, and place the hoops a little farther apart to make movement easier.
- Students with autism: colored hoops give a clear visual reference; announce each phase change with the same cue.
- Balance the teams; less experienced players may call for a safety pass from the point hoop with no defender on them.
Learning goals
- Fill the offensive spots while keeping good distance from teammates.
- Cut after passing and refill the open spot.
- Understand how spacing opens up drives and passes.
Equipment for a class of 25
- basketball: 2
- pinnies: 8
- hoops: 10
- basketball hoops: 2
Teacher tip
The usual mistake is everyone drifting toward the ball; freezing a play and pointing to the empty hoop makes it obvious. Lay the hoops flat and easy to see to avoid trips.
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