How to Play Basketball and Have More Fun

A good basketball player has a love for the game, natural skill and knows their way around the court. Often, baskeball players can also have a competitive nature, the drive to win. Although this is all fun and games, literally, here are a few tips to playing basket without the aspect of competition, and how to simply enjoy your time on the court!

Shoot Without Expectation

Life is about making shots. There’s nothing like the pure adrenalin rush you get when the ball leaves your hands and swishes through the next. However, many players are disappointed when they shoot and miss. Removing the expectation of making the ball in the net will allow you to let loose and have fun. Instead of practicing under pressure, this allows you to practice for fun.

Another way to practice shooting without pressure is by playing basketball games. There are plenty of basketball side games that are much different than the actual standard game we watch the professionals play. Try pickup games like H-O-R-S-E and Knockout. These are just two of many fun games you can play involving the hoop and the basketball, but neither involve traveling, just shooting!

Don’t Compare Yourself

There’s a wise saying and it goes “Comparison kills contentment”. This quote is accurate to basketball players. With so many elements to the game, basketball players take to specific skills. Some players are better at blocking while others are great at making it in the basket. When you focus on how you play the game and what you’re skilled in rather than comparing yourself to others, you’ll have more fun. Each skilled member is what makes a great team player.

Change the Game

Basketball is a widely popular sport that you can play both indoors and outdoors. When the weather’s in favor, take your games outside. The fresh air is great and will be a nice break from playing inside a gym.

Other than changing where you play the game, you can also change how you play the game. Change the rules, make them your own. As long as everyone playing agrees, you’ll notice it might be more fun.

You can ensure you’ll have fun playing basketball without the pressure of competition and comparison. Next time you’re on the court, try these tips for a fun game!

Summer is right around the corner and the temperatures are slowly rising. This time of year poses heat on the court, especially for pickup games on the court. When playing basketball you and your friends will need to make sure you’re staying cool in the heat while you’re outside on the basketball court. As you and your buddies plan, or even spontaneously, partake in pickup games, here’s how you can beat the heat on the court all summer long.

Hydrate

Your body loses a large portion of water and sodium on hot summer days. Sweat is a natural bodily function that occurs when you play in a pickup game. Because of this, your body needs to hydrate and rehydrate. As an athlete, personally or professionally, you need to ensure you’re staying hydrated. Drink water before, during and after any game you play.

Footwear

Hard courts, especially asphalt, retain heat and release it through your shoes and into your feet. This can cause your body temperature to be higher than necessary. You want the best basketball kicks for outdoors. Be sure you have good traction, durability and most importantly make sure they’re affordable. Having the right type of footwear for the summer can help you stay cool on the court.

Clothing

You definitely don’t need a sweatshirt for the court in the summer. Make sure you’re wearing appropriate apparel for the temperature as you play. Try to find activewear that’s lightweight and is made from fabric that dries fast to reduce the amount of sweat. Stretchy or loose material are also good as you’re active on the court. Wearing the right clothing can help reduce the heat.

Shade

Although most courts aren’t covered by shade, look around for a place to get out of the sun that’s near your court. If there’s a tree nearby, stand in the shade for a few minutes whenever you’re not playing the game. Give your body a break from the sun whenever you get the chance.

Break

Don’t forget to break between each quarter of the game. Use this time to relax and allow your body to rest. Drink water and go to the shaded area if it exists. A break will give your body the time to get ready for the next quarter, as you allow for a cool-down time.

Summer can be a fun time with a few friends and pickup games. Beat the heat this summer as you play hoops!