Court Etiquette: The Unwritten Rules of Pickup Basketball

Pickup basketball has its own code. Learn it, and you'll be welcomed everywhere. Ignore it, and you'll be that guy. Here are the unwritten rules that keep the game running smooth.

Call your own fouls — This is pickup, not the NBA. There's no ref. If you get fouled, call it. If you foul someone, own it. Don't argue every call. The best players are honest about contact.

Winners stay, but not forever — Standard is winners keep the court. But if you've won 3+ in a row, consider letting the next team up. Nobody likes waiting an hour while one team dominates.

Check the ball — Every possession starts with a check at the top. It's respect. It's tradition. Don't skip it.

No cherry-picking — Stay on your end until you get the rebound or the other team scores. Running downcourt for easy layups kills the game.

Sub yourself out if you're gassed — Nothing worse than someone who can't move on defense. If you need a breather, tap out. Your team will thank you.

Respect the court — Pick up your trash. Don't argue with randoms. Shake hands after the game. The court is a community. Act like it.

Use Fullcourt to find your crew — The best runs happen when everyone knows the rules. Find games with players who get it. Build your regular run. That's how pickup becomes something more.