Before NBA players displayed their talent on the big stage, they showed their developing skills in pickup games.
Although the games are played fairly similar to each together, the rules are a bit different.
Each pickup game has different rules depending on where you play and who you play with.
Here are some of the basic tips when playing pickup:
1. Don't come to a pickup game with a full uniform on.
Kobe or LeBron may be your favorite player, but there is no need to showcase a full uniform while playing. This rule even applies to the players who have a tremendous skill set. Your first impression looks even worse if you have bad game while wearing a full uniform. DON'T BE THAT PERSON.
2. Don't shoot the ball too much.
Everyone has played with someone who thinks they are Ray Allen or Stephen Curry material. However, this person may only make one of his ten attempts. Each player wants a chance at scoring so why not move the ball around. You and your teammates will figure which roles to play during the game. If you are a scorer or a legit shooter, your teammates will realize it soon enough.
3. Saying "And 1" isn't the same as calling a foul.
Driving to the basketball only to throw up a prayer and call ''And 1'' is NOT the same as actually calling a foul. Players should make it clear if and when they do get hacked. Calling "And 1" will only taint your reputation on the court.
4. Shoot for questionable calls.
In almost every pickup game there always seems to be a controversial call. Instead of arguing about it and wasting time, why not just shoot for it. Don't know who touched it last? Shoot for it. Can't agree on a foul? Shoot for it. Arguing on who takes out first? Shoot for it. These plays are usually settled quickly with this handy tip.
5. No Blood, No Call.
Do not be the person that bails their mistakes out with a call. If you are driving to hoop or shooting a spot up jump shot and get lightly hacked, play on. Calling a foul every time you miss not only slows the game down, but you will start to lose respect as a player. You should probably call a foul if you ever get taken out like Kurt Rambis did.
