How to Make a Mini Hoop Tournament With Your Friends

Hi, I’m River!

Playing mini hoop by yourself is fun—but it’s even better when you get your mates involved.

If you want to take things up a level, you can create your own mini hoop tournament at home. I’ve done this a few times and it’s always a good time (even when I don’t win).

Here’s how to set it up.

Step 1: Get 2 or More Players

You can play one-on-one, or invite a few mates and make it a round-robin or mini league. You don’t need heaps of people—just enough to have a bit of competition.

You can even play with your siblings (if they’re not too annoying).

Step 2: Pick Your Games

Here are some of my favourites you can mix into the tournament:

• HORSE (classic letters game)
• 1-Minute Shot Challenge (how many baskets in 60 secs)
• Around the Room (5 different spots, must make all)
• Trick Shot Battle (everyone shows their best shot)
• One-Hand Challenge (non-dominant hand only)

You can score each one, or just award a win per round.

Step 3: Make a Scoreboard

Use paper, a whiteboard, or your phone to keep score.
Give 1 point per game win, or set a bracket (semis and finals).
Make up team names if you want to get serious.

Example:

Name	HORSE	Trick Shot	Total
River	W	L	1
Leo	L	W	1

Step 4: Pick a Prize (Optional but Fun)

The winner could get:

• Bragging rights
• First pick of snacks
• A mini hoop medal (made of cardboard?)
• The chance to make up the next game

Or... the loser has to do 10 squats while holding a basketball over their head. (You decide.)

Step 5: Film It!

Set up a phone on a stand or shelf and film your favourite shots.
Then tag me @hoopsforgood on TikTok or YouTube if you want to show off your tournament.

Need a Hoop to Get Started?

Grab one from the shop.
It’s super easy to set up—and $10 from every sale goes to support basketball programs for other kids.

Let the Games Begin!

If you run your own mini hoop tournament, I’d love to see it.
Tag me or send a message with your best shots and silliest prizes.

– River