Water Basketball Rules and Info

Water basketball is a great and fun way to stay in shape! It is very similar to regular half-court basketball, but the water resistance makes it a low impact workout. Another neat feature of water basketball is that it can be played by coed teams. The game can either be played in the shallow or deep end of the pool. Choose shallow for younger children, or if you are looking for a good resistance workout that is similar to playing real basketball. Choose deep for more of a swimming workout.

Some community pools and gyms have water basketball equipment and teams already formed. If you want to play in your own pool, you will have to get a specially made goal, which can cost from $200-$600. It is also helpful to have a to create a court. You can have as many people on a team as you wish, but usually you will do best with 4 or less per team in shallow water and 6 or less in deep water.

The rules are fairly simple, and can be added to as desired. Here are the most basic rules:

1. No fouling. Fouling is defined as splashing water at, grabbing or hitting an opponent. Fouling results in a free shot at the basket.
2. All defensive rebounds must be taken back to the end of the court farthest away from the basket, as in half-court basketball.
3. Players may not hang on sides of diving boards.
4. No goaltending. Goaltending is batting the ball away as it is about to go in the basket.

 If you are going to purchase your own basket, it is highly recommended you get one with a winged backboard, as this helps deflect the ball back into the pool, reducing the number of trips on to the deck.

Waterspouts Team Info

The Carthage Waterspouts currently consists of 5 players. We play at the community pool here in Carthage, Missouri. At this time, there is only one other team in Carthage, our hated rivals, the Carthage Water Devils. The Waterspouts try to practice at least once a week during the season, and we play the Water Devils every week, at a time that is scheduled about a week in advance (owing to pool availability). We have heard interest from several more potential players, and if we get enough, we will form a new team.

Water basketball really is great exercise. Last year, all of the players on both teams noticed a marked improvement in their fitness level. Best of all, there are no falls and it isn't hard on your knees! If you think you might be interested in playing, drop an email to carthagespouts@hotmail.com.

THE 2006 SEASON IS BEGINNING! The pool is opening up and we will begin practice in the next couple of weeks. All you Waterspouts, it's time to get back in shape so we can take it to those Devils! We won the season series last year, 20-15 and I know we can do it again! Lets go Waterspouts!