Basketball needs almost nothing: a ball, a hoop and a patch of pavement. That's why there's a court in nearly every park, schoolyard and rec center, and why you can play it alone, one-on-one or five-on-five. Outdoor courts are usually free and open to anyone. Indoor courts at community centers, gyms and YMCAs often need a membership or a day pass, but you get lights, a wood floor and no wind.

There's more than one way to play. Pickup games are informal, with whoever shows up making teams. Half-court three-on-three needs fewer people, and shooting games like HORSE need only two. Adult rec leagues, often run by parks departments, give you a team and a regular schedule. And when you'd rather watch, high school, college and pro games all make a lively night out.

The Date Activity

Shooting around is a surprisingly good date. It's casual, it keeps you moving, and a game of HORSE gives you a built-in reason to show off, miss badly and laugh about it. Pick a quiet court at an off hour so you aren't in the regulars' way, and set the stakes before you start: loser buys the ice cream. If one of you is much better, try trick shots or free throws, where the gap closes fast.

Watching a game is the other route. A local high school or college game is usually inexpensive, loud and fun even if you don't know the teams, while a pro game is a bigger occasion; our page on going to a sporting event has tips for that. Couples who both play can join a co-ed rec league together, which turns one date into a whole season.

On Your Own / With Friends

Basketball is a natural group activity. Show up at a busy park court, call "next" and you'll usually get into a game against the winners. With enough friends, rent a gym at a rec center for an hour and run your own games. Make it a full sports day by adding a round at the batting cages or a few games of racquetball.

On your own, a hoop and a ball are a great workout. Free throws, form shooting and ball-handling drills are how most good players got that way, and an empty court early in the morning is a peaceful place to be.

Good to Know

Wear proper basketball shoes with good ankle support; running shoes don't grip well for quick side-to-side moves. Bring water, a towel and your own ball in case nobody has a spare. In hot weather, play early in the morning or in the evening, and remember that many park courts close at dusk unless they're lit. Pickup has its own etiquette: call your own fouls, wait your turn and don't argue every call. Warm up before you play, because sprained ankles and jammed fingers are the usual hazards.