Hoopsense Logo

Hula Hoop Shooting Spots

A playful shooting drill that helps young players build balance, shot mechanics, and footwork—all while moving through colorful hula hoop stations.

Hoopsense featured image with the title "Hula Hoop Shooting Spots" over a black background and basketball graphic

How it Works

Place several hula hoops on the floor around the basket, spaced for easy shots at appropriate distances based on the players’ age. Each player starts with a basketball and begins at one of the hoops.

  • Players must stand with both feet inside the hula hoop and take a shot.
  • After shooting, they move to the next hoop and repeat the process.
  • Players rotate through all the hoops, working on balance and shot accuracy from different angles.
  • Encourage them to focus on form, footwork, and follow-through at each spot.

Progression/Variation

  • Make it a relay: after a make, players sprint to the next available hoop.
  • Use cones between hoops so players must dribble between shots.
  • Add a passing partner to simulate a catch-and-shoot scenario.

Coaching Points

  • Emphasize staying balanced inside the hoop while shooting.
  • Reinforce proper shooting mechanics: elbow under the ball, soft release, and high follow-through.
  • Encourage players to reset their feet quickly before each shot.

Why This Drill Works

Young players struggle with balance and footwork just as much as they struggle with shooting form. Hula Hoop Shooting Spots addresses both by giving a physical boundary for foot placement while still encouraging good shot technique. The colorful hoops also create a visual target and naturally make the drill more playful and engaging for Mini Hoopers. This drill builds confidence and creates a strong foundation for future shooting skills.

More Stuff you Might like

Hoopsense featured image with the title "Poly Spot Freeze Tag" over a black background and basketball graphic

Poly Spot Freeze Tag

A fun freeze tag game that builds ball control, awareness, and teamwork using safe, non-slip poly spots as quick escape zones. Perfect for energetic Mini Hoopers.
Read more
Hoopsense featured image with the title "Hungry Hippos" over a black background and basketball graphic

Hungry Hippos

A high-energy dribbling game that builds ball control, awareness, and hustle as players race to collect the most items while keeping their dribble alive.
Read more
Hoopsense featured image with the title "Beat the Defender Layups" over a black background and basketball graphic

Beat the Defender Layups

A live, game-like layup drill that teaches young players to finish under pressure while reacting to a recovering defender. Simple, competitive, and highly effective.
Read more
Hoopsense featured image with the title "Beat the Clock" over a black background and basketball graphic

Beat The Clock

A high-energy shooting drill that builds pace, accuracy, and decision-making under time pressure. Great for competition, conditioning, and shooting rhythm.
Read more
Hoopsense featured image with the title "Zip Zag Handle and Go" over a black background and basketball graphic

Zig-Zag Handle & Go

A high-rep dribbling drill that improves change-of-direction control and explosive finishing. Great for warmups, stations, or building confidence on the move.
Read more
Hoopsense featured image with the title "Knockout with a Twist" over a black background and basketball graphic

Knockout With a Twist

A fun twist on knockout that adds redemption, keeps more kids involved, and reinforces shooting technique under pressure. Great for all skill levels.
Read more