How to Dunk & Break the Rim

The dunk is one of the most exciting plays in basketball. It combines a player's athleticism and power as he soars through the air and slams the basketball through the hoop. On rare occasions, a player will dunk the ball so forcefully that the rim breaks off or the backboard glass shatters. While generally not intended or advisable, breaking the rim on a dunk can be done by altering how you finish the play.

Things You'll Need

  • Basketball
  • Hoop
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Instructions

    • 1

      Begin your normal approach for a slam dunk. Tall players or players with high vertical leaps can stand next to the basket and jump off two feet. Others might need to take a running start, jumping off one foot on their way to the basket.

    • 2

      Hold the ball with two hands as you ascend to the basket. Get the ball over the rim, and throw the ball through the hoop.

    • 3
      Hanging on the rim increases the chances of breaking it.

      Grab on to the rim with both hands as you finish the dunk. Hang on the rim as your legs stay off the ground.

    • 4

      Pull yourself up so your eye level is above the rim. This puts more stress on the rim as you put more of your body weight into the dunk. At any point, the rim might break off, depending on its durability.

    • 5

      Begin to lower your body back down to the ground. As you descend, forcefully pull on the rim with both hands. This puts further stress on the rim in your last attempt to break it.

    • 6

      Land safely on the ground. If successful, you might be holding the rim in your hands.