Knockout

Fun game

Fast, competitive shooting under a bit of pressure — the all-time favourite.

10 min 5–15 Half court · dual
ShootingU8U10U12U14
Press play
OffenseDefenseBall / cone Move Pass
Ask about this drill Watch a demo

Setup

Everyone lines up single file at the free-throw line (or closer for littles). First two players have a ball.

Steps

  1. 1Player 1 shoots. If they miss, they rebound and keep shooting until they make it.
  2. 2As soon as player 1 shoots, player 2 may shoot.
  3. 3If player 2 makes their shot BEFORE player 1 makes theirs, player 1 is knocked out.
  4. 4Made shots — pass to the next player in line and go to the back. Last player standing wins.

Coaching points

  • Shoot quickly but under control.
  • Rebound your own miss fast.
  • Good sportsmanship — cheer, don't taunt.

Why kids love it

Pure adrenaline. Kids beg to play it. The comeback tension when two players race to score is unbeatable.

Variations

Titanic (your team's version)

Knocked-out players form a rebounding/defence gauntlet that can 'sink' shooters — gives eliminated kids a way back in and keeps everyone moving.

Easier

Shoot from right next to the hoop for U8.