Not everyone recognizes just how versatile basketball is. Many people think if you do not have a group of people that you cannot play a game, but that is not true. There are many fun ways to play basketball no matter who is playing with you.

Group Play

Let's start with the most common game - a full scale game. You will need a group of people to play all the positions. The game is played in teams. Each team's goal is to get the most points.

Different baskets earn different points depending on from where the shot was made. The harder shots earn more points.

This type of game gives you the full benefits of playing basketball. You will be getting a lot of exercise and working together as a team.

Two People Play

When you only have one buddy to play with you can play a little one on one. The goal, as with a full game, is to get the most points. Many times this type of game is a little more lenient and baskets score only one point no matter from where they are made.

This is a great way to compete and show off your skills. It is also good practice for playing as a team. You get to work with a friend and you both can give each other advice on improving your game. You also will be able to see where your game is weak.

Playing one on one is something anyone at any level of game play can do since it is less strict and rigid then a full scale game.

Single Games

You can play spelling games like H-O-R-S-E and P-I-G with a group of people, a couple people or by yourself. This type of game is perfect for trying out different shots and learning how to shoot from all over the court. They are also very challenging games where you can push your skills to get better.

The basic idea of this type of game is to choose a spot on the court and make a basket. If you make a basket then the next person has to make a basket or else they get a letter in the work you are spelling. After a missed shot the next player gets to choose a new spot from which to shoot.

The game goes on until someone spells the word.

This game can be played alone just as it would with others, but as a challenge without so much focus on the word. You can try to reduce the amount of shots you make from each spot until you can get it on the first try.