I was playing some pick-up basketball this weekend and I realized something funny. Everytime I'm in a pick-up game, the same people tend to show up. It's like clockwork. So I'm going to break it down for everybody and explain what I like and dislike about these people. Feel free to comment if I miss anyone.
I love... random old guy. He's always the first one on the court looking to get in the game. This guy is always at least 20 years older than everyone else and just looking to get in some exercise before the early bird special at the Sizzler. He's always fun to watch because he can't dribble, can't run, plays defense a little too hard and has the ugliest shot in the world, yet somehow seems to make it most of the time. I love random old guy.
I hate... the nitpicker. There's always one guy who calls too many fouls. This is the same guy who will call you for travelling, double dribble, and out of bounds if you're even close. Just shut your face and play the game. Short of getting tackled, you shouldn't be calling fouls. It's just an excuse for why you missed your shot. If you are halfway decent, you should be making your shots and don't need to call fouls in the first place.
I hate... the elbow thrower. The big guy who's got something to prove. He needs to show off how strong he is by grabbing boards and swinging his arms around, knocking smaller people out of the way. This guy really needs to calm down. It's just a game Focker!
I love... the smart player. Sometimes you get people on the court who actually know what they are doing. They swing the ball around, set picks, make cuts and don't take stupid shots. They know when to run and when to slow things down. These people are so much more fun to play with because if you know what you are doing, you have a chance to get the ball.
I hate... the ball hog. I'm there because I want to play. I am not there to watch you shoot threes from half court. Ok, maybe you make one here and there, but 20% shooting is not impressive. Give me the damn ball.
I hate... the moving picker. You know who you are. Learn how to make a pick you jerk. What you are doing is called playing football.
I'm sure I missed a few, but I can't think of any more right now. If people would just calm down and realize that everyone is just there to have a good time, then the games would be so much more fun. Who cares if your team wins? Nobody plays defense and everyone is out of shape. Seriously, winning a pick-up basketball game is about as impressive as beating your girlfriend at shuffleboard (but not my girlfriend because she can mop the floor with me). As long as I get some exercise and get passed too once in a while, I'm happy.
