5 Pool Basketball Tricks

There are 5 pool basketball tricks that will up your game and leave your buddies in the dust. Just because you’re playing with a smaller ball and a little water doesn’t mean you can’t show off your basketball skills in the pool. Some of these tricks are exclusive to the pool, while others work on the court too. If you’re ready to take your game to the next level, than take a look at our top 5 tricks for basketball in the pool.

1. Element of water. Our first of 5 basketball pool tricks is using the water to your advantage. In pool basketball, dribbling isn’t the most important element. You can use water to your advantage by dunking the ball under the water, using the ball's buoyancy to pass it to teammates or under your legs, and using the basketball to create a little “splashing” action to distract that pesky defender.
2. Backboard or break. Most basketball pool rims are flimsy, but the backboards are usually oversized and solid. You should use these backboards to your advantage when shooting and passing the ball. Many basketball pool games rule that throwing the ball out of the pool is a turnover. If your shot isn’t the best, you can bank your shots off the backboard. Even if you miss, you’ll have the opportunity to make a crucial rebound and dunk it.
3. The skip. Another trick that can improve your basketball pool game is skipping the ball between teammates. This little trick requires just a flick of the wrist and an accurate toss. Simply bring the ball back and flick it like you would a stone across the water towards your teammate. This trick works very well for long passes or even short passes behind the back.
4. Taunting. While this trick may not be as handy as your backboard breaker, it’s fun to use in a game. Only use this trick with a small rubber ball, because it’s possible that payback will be coming your way! Simply look for a fellow competitor who has his back turned (and isn’t paying much attention) and hit him in the back with your ball. If you get good at this trick, you may even be able to pass the ball to yourself off his back. This can be a handy trick if the guy you pick on is guarding your teammate. Distract him with this trick, then skip the ball to your buddy.
5. Around the world. Our final trick is an old favorite that might not have any relevance on the water, but it’s a fun trick to do. Take your rubber basketball and place it on your finger. Use your other hand to slowly rotate it. Start out slow at first, but you can begin to pick up the pace when you get better at it. With the added element of the water, this little finger spin trick is even more fun!