This is a companion post to Physical Education at Home. Check it out for more great Active Home resources.
You've probably played Knock Out before but the rules can be a little complex for younger players. Other times you just want to play where nobody gets out. This is a perfect lead-up game to learning Fun Size Knock Out (a perfect game to play in your house or outside). Here, I'll use the "Fun Size" version of the game, but it's easily adaptable if you actually have a basketball goal to play with.
What is No Out Knock Out
This is a basketball shooting game where two people race to make the basket first. If you don't have a basketball goal, set up the game like this:
For your basketball "goal", the best option at home is to use a plastic storage bin or laundry basket (pro tip: weigh it down with something. I put dumbbells in mine at home). A clean trash can would also make a nice basketball goal. Then make a box or circle around it with painters tape (or chalk or nylon webbing). The perimeter should be at least 2 feet away from the goal. I call this The Box. Then make a Free Throw Line. Optional, make a Lane from the box to the Free Throw line.
No Out Knock Out Rules
All players form a line behind the free throw line. The first two players shoot at the same time and then it's a race to see who makes the basket first. Once the first person makes it, they are both done and go back to the line. Whoever made it in first gets to be in front of the other person in line. Then the next two players shoot.
Other Rules:
Both players start with their first shot at the Free Throw Line. After that first shot, every other shot can be from anywhere outside of The Box and The Lane.
You cannot shoot from inside The Box or The Lane (if you choose to use the Lane. It's a good way to keep players out of the way of the next shooter). The official rule is that your feet and shoulders cannot be in The Box or The Lane, but younger players just worry about their feet. If they're inside those areas and they make the shot, it doesn't count and they'll need to shoot again.
Recommended Reading
Fun Size Knock Out - A basketball favorite you can play in your house
Gaga Ball - Dodgeball where the ball stays on the ground
SLAPS! - It's Gaga Ball for younger players
Floor Square - It's a mix of Gaga Ball and Four Square!
