Basketball is a beloved sport that offers numerous physical and social benefits. However, traditional basketball techniques may present challenges for individuals with diverse abilities. In this blog post, we explore various adaptive strategies that promote inclusive basketball play. From dribbling and shooting modifications to creative passing techniques, these innovative approaches ensure that everyone can actively participate and enjoy the game. Let’s dive into the exciting world of adapted basketball!
Dribbling Techniques:
- Helium balloon dribble:
Helium/“Up” balloon assisted basketball dribble. #AdaptedPE pic.twitter.com/dNswkCrIZ6
— 🦍Matt Barker ⚽️𝙅𝙪𝙨𝙩𝘼𝙙𝙖𝙥𝙩𝙄𝙩.𝙘𝙤𝙢 (@DigitTheAPE) June 29, 2022
2. Helium balloon with air pump:
Adapted Basketball Dribble using air pump and helium 🎈 🏀 #AdaptedPE #assistivetechnology pic.twitter.com/BIhNtXvVSw
— 🦍Matt Barker ⚽️𝙅𝙪𝙨𝙩𝘼𝙙𝙖𝙥𝙩𝙄𝙩.𝙘𝙤𝙢 (@DigitTheAPE) March 17, 2023
3. Punch balloon attached to a wheelchair:
Everyone can practice basketball skills in PE #inclusion #AdaptedPE @FCPSAdaptedPE pic.twitter.com/ZHfPiUeDkz
— Heather Burgess (@FCPSBurgessAPE) March 14, 2023
4. Dribble Assist:
5. PVC mount for wheelchair:
I love a good PVC + C clamp combo 🤌🏼 the basketball kept falling off my S lap when she self propelled. This simple little gadget helped keep it in place so she could maneuver around the court to dribble and shoot more successfully 🏀 #AdaptedPE pic.twitter.com/BQAJKHeZqX
— Nicole McCoy (@NMcCoy_APE) March 31, 2023




Shooting Modifications:
- Leaf blower, power link, and switch:
It’s almost hypnotic watching this beach ball hang in limbo before dropping into the net! 😍 #AdaptedPE pic.twitter.com/iQC5VFXKRc
— 🦍Matt Barker ⚽️𝙅𝙪𝙨𝙩𝘼𝙙𝙖𝙥𝙩𝙄𝙩.𝙘𝙤𝙢 (@DigitTheAPE) November 14, 2021
2. Hoops over regulation baskets:
Starting our basketball week strong 💪🏼🏀 #adaptedpe #wearebousd #bousdape #physed #basketball #pass #shoot pic.twitter.com/ePNXbCUq72
— Kasia Givenrod (@ape_mrsg) September 28, 2021
3. Dollar store basket hack:
DIY Dollar Tree 🏀 nets that insert into the bleachers. Not that I dislike the typical hula hoop method, but I wanted something more visually appealing/realistic for my Ss since the traditional method can be a little abstract for some of them. Cheap fix 👏🏼 #AdaptedPE #APEhacks pic.twitter.com/OtiXFYabKm
— Nicole McCoy (@NMcCoy_APE) April 30, 2022
4. Ground-level baskets for floor play and from chair:
🏀 Some adapted basketball shooting options today @BMP_PE #AdaptedPE pic.twitter.com/1K7RHgBVGX
— 🦍Matt Barker ⚽️𝙅𝙪𝙨𝙩𝘼𝙙𝙖𝙥𝙩𝙄𝙩.𝙘𝙤𝙢 (@DigitTheAPE) March 16, 2023
5. Larger and lower nets:
If there was one piece of #AdaptedPE equipment you would like to add to your collection what would it be?
Mine – a basketball hoop or add-on piece that lowers the hoop to at least 5 feet.#PhysEd #PEgeeks #HPE pic.twitter.com/s2WGRdqVQ9
— Brad (@BHunterinBmore) April 21, 2021
Passing Techniques:
- Visuals on t-shirt:
Testing out the 🏀👕! #AdaptedPE #visuals pic.twitter.com/J2mISWopd1
— 🦍 𐌑ąȶȶ ɃąґҠ𝟈ґ ⚽️🏀 (@DigitTheAPE) July 30, 2019
2. Squash the bug visuals:
3. Passing along a table or zipline:
Another way we practice passing with a partner. pic.twitter.com/1OYgs9pCod
— Cooke School Athletics (@SchoolCooke) February 27, 2019
By incorporating these adaptive techniques into basketball, we create an inclusive and enjoyable experience for players of all abilities. Whether it’s modifying dribbling, shooting, or passing, these innovative strategies open doors for participation and skill development. Let’s celebrate the diversity of basketball and empower everyone to embrace the game.
Remember, the beauty of adaptive basketball lies in its creativity and flexibility. Explore these techniques, adapt them to suit individual needs, and continue to foster inclusive play on and off the court.
Have fun adapting and enjoying the game of basketball!
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For more basketball ideas check out our PADLET!
