Pool Basketball

Playing basketball in the pool isn’t that much different than playing on the court or blacktop. Well, except for the swimming and splashing part!

Perfect for players of all ages, pool basketball blends the athleticism and skill of shooting hoops combined with the fun atmosphere of swimming with your friends. The great thing about basketball is that you can play with as many people as you want, and can even just shoot around solo.

Let’s jump right into it.

Accessories or Set Up Needed

To play pool basketball, you’ll need a basketball hoop designed for pool use and a water-friendly basketball.

These hoops can either be inflatable that float in the pool, or more permanent that sit on the decking. Be sure to double-check that both the net and ball are pool-safe as the pool chemicals could damage the basketball net and shorten its lifespan if it’s just meant for the driveway or blacktop.

Additionally, ensure your swimming pool is spacious enough to accommodate the players and allow for easy movement and shooting.

How To Play Pool Basketball

Basketball in the pool is a team game like traditional basketball with slight modifications for a pool setting. Obviously, there is no dribbling or traveling called, but games can be modified to have a “water dribble” to keep it more realistic!

The objective is to shoot the basketball into the opponent’s hoop, with the team scoring the most points declared as the winner.

Gameplay

Let’s go through the classic style of pool basketball and how to play. While there are tons of variations that you can incorporate, here is the basic gameplay to get started:

• Players are divided into two teams. These teams can either be picked by captains or divided evenly based on skill level.
• Teams aim to shoot the ball into the basketball net, earning points for each successful basket.
• Offensive players can pass the ball to teammates and set up plays while the defensive players try to steal the ball and block shots.
• Like half-court basketball, if the defense steals the ball or gets a rebound without the offensive team scoring, they must take the ball to the “starting point”, usually the opposite end of the pool where the net is placed.
• The team with the most points at the end of the game wins. Games can be determined by a time limit or by scoring up to a certain amount of points.

Rules of Pool Basketball

The rules for Pool Basketball are straightforward:

• Set a designated starting point to check the ball and to return the ball on defense.
• When a team scores, the game is restarted with a check at the starting point.
• Players must remain in the pool during play at all times.
• No jumping onto or dunking opponents underwater. Just like regular basketball, Stealing the ball from opponents is allowed, but physical contact should be limited.
• Games can be played with two-pointers and three-pointers. Set the distance for three-point shots before the game is played.

Strategy of Playing Basketball in the Pool

Here are some strategic tips to follow when playing in a pool:

• Before playing, take some practice shots with the ball. Some balls are much heavier when submerged in water over a period of time
• Ball movement by the offense is important to play in the pool. This tires out the defense as it is harder to move in the water.
• Aim to control the ball as much as possible to increase scoring opportunities.

Variations to Play

Consider these variations to add a twist to your Pool Basketball game:

• F-I-S-H: This is played just like H-O-R-S-E. One player tries to make a difficult basket, and if the shot is successful all other players must make the same shot. A missed shot counts as an “F”, and players play until they are eliminated by spelling out F-I-S-H.
• Pool Knockout: This game requires two basketballs. Players line up, shoot, and quickly try to score before the person behind them makes their shot. If the player behind scores first, the leading player is “knocked out” and eliminated from the game.
• Add a time limit to increase the pace and excitement of the game.

Safety Precautions to Follow

Follow these precautions to ensure a safe game:

• Check that all players are confident swimmers and comfortable in the pool.
• Monitor the game for excessive physical contact or rough play.
• If players get too close to the edge of the pool, consider restarting with a check at the starting point
• Ensure the basketball hoop is securely installed to prevent accidents or tip-overs.

Time to Hoop!

Pool Basketball offers a splash of athletic competition that’s perfect for your next pool party.

Whether you are just shooting some hoops by yourself or playing a full five-on-five, remember to always have fun and be safe!