To some people pick up basketball is just another way to get their exercise in. There’s no better feeling than heading to the park on a sunny 85 degree day, and calling out next. However, sometimes it’s not that simple. Some people tend to take pick up basketball games too seriously! But why?
People take pick up basketball very seriously because this is their time to work on their game. Pick up games are an eat or be eaten type of environment, and in order to stay on the court you need to win. If there are a lot of people at the court and you lose, you can be off the court for up to an hour. Players who are taking the time to get better at the sport of basketball don’t want to waste that much time.
So although there’s no scouts and no one is counting points, rebounds, and assists, pick up basketball could become very serious for those that want to improve. Even if people don’t have the aspirations to improve, basketball is a very competitive game, which can sometimes lead to some arguments and heated moments on the court.
How Does Pick Up Basketball Allow Players To Get So Much Better?
Pick up basketball is a different type of basketball than playing in an organized league, and for some players they need that type of basketball. Here are the reasons why pick up basketball is one of the best ways to improve your game:
It’s More Casual, Which Allows You To Try New Things
In a game, if you try a new dribble move your coach might not approve, and may pull you from the game. In pick up, you can try these new moves until you get good enough at it to do it anywhere. This allows you to work on your weaknesses in the off season.
It Makes You a Tougher Player
In official games, you get foul calls more often. When you play pick up basketball foul calls aren’t as much of a thing. This means you will play through contact much more often in pick up basketball and this will make you a tougher player. When you get into a real game, you’ll be much more likely to finish through contact.
This will result in you finishing and 1 opportunities and also will improve your ability to dribble through contact.
What Can You Do As a Less Serious Player If You Want To Play Basketball?
If you’re someone who doesn’t want to play with people are so serious, you may be wondering what other ways you could get your basketball fix. Below we will go over a few different ways.
Join a League
Joining a league will give you the opportunity to get your basketball fix in with structured rules. Check with your local recreation center to see if they have any leagues you can join. Even if your team doesn’t win games, you won’t have to deal with as much pressure to be perfect as you would in pick up games.
If your recreational center doesn’t have a league, Google “basketball leagues in my area”, and it will allow you to find a local league to join.
Find a Court With Less People
If you have friends that also like to play, organize a get together with them at a court where people usually don’t go to. You can have a competitive yet enjoyable 2 on 2 or 3 on 3 game, which will allow you to get your exercise in.
Even if you have 3, you could play a game of 21, which doesn’t require an even number of players.
Play Basketball Video Games
This won’t give you the exercise that you need, but it will give you your basketball fix. Playing basketball video games like NBA 2K can give you the competitive experience that you need to feel like you’re playing basketball.
In Summary
Now you know why some people take pick up basketball so seriously, and although you don’t view it the same way, you need to respect their drive and determination to improve. If you choose to play anyway, take a look at these tips to contribute in a positive way while playing pick up basketball.
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