How to Play Around the World in Basketball

Tyler ThompsonRules

Around the World is one of the best classic shooting games you can play on a basketball court. It works with any number of players and is great for sharpening your shot from different spots on the floor.

Game Setup

The setup is simple. Pick about five to seven spots around the key that form a half circle from one side of the basket to the other. Think layup, elbow, wing, corner, and so on. These are your shooting stations. You can adjust how many spots there are depending on how hard you want to make the game.

The first player starts at the first spot. If they make the shot, they move to the next spot. If they miss, they have a choice. Either stay put and let the next person go or take what’s called a chance. Taking a chance means you get one extra shot to try and make it. If you hit that shot, you move forward like normal. But if you miss again, you go all the way back to the beginning.

The first player to make it all the way around the world wins.

Some people like to play where you also have to make it back around to your starting point after reaching the last spot. You can add that rule for a little extra challenge.

You can also play with three-pointers or make up your own shooting spots (from the flower bed!) if you want to mix it up.

The beauty of this game is how flexible it is. Whether you’re playing solo or with a group, it’s one of the easiest ways to make shooting practice fun and competitive.