Win the Game is a free throw competition designed to simulate late-game pressure while players are fatigued. It’s best run at the end of practice and helps coaches identify who their most reliable pressure shooters are. The simplicity of the rules makes it highly competitive and game-like.

Setup & Organization

The entire team gathers at one basket. One player starts at the free-throw line while the rest of the team stands around the lane and arc in a circle. Every player will shoot two free throws, then rotate one spot clockwise until everyone has had their turn. The scoreboard is set at 78–78 to create a late-game tie situation.

Step-by-Step Progression

1. The first player steps to the free-throw line and shoots two shots while the rest of the team watches and provides pressure. 2. After two attempts, the shooter rotates clockwise into the circle and the next teammate steps up. 3. The sequence continues until every player has taken two shots. 4. Made free throws add one point to the home team score, misses add two points to the away team’s score. 5. Once all players have shot, the final scoreboard determines whether the team has won or lost the “game.”

Scoring

A made free throw is worth one point for the team (home). A missed free throw gives two points to the imaginary opponent (away). The goal is to “win the game” by finishing with more points after all players have taken their two shots. If the team loses, there is a conditioning penalty such as team sprints before repeating the drill. If the team wins, practice is usually concluded.

Coaching Points

Reinforce focus, routine, and communication under pressure. Emphasize replicating game-like behavior at the free-throw line, including consistent breathing and mechanics. Use this drill to evaluate which players thrive in pressure situations and can be trusted late in real games.

Variations

Increase the pressure by adding noise or distractions from teammates. Change the starting score (for example, down two or up one) to create different end-game scenarios. Extend the drill into sudden-death free throws where every player must make one in a row to finish practice.