Basketball Cheers for Kids

Basketball is a high-energy sport that uses cheerleaders to get the players pumped up. The cheerleaders, in turn, encourage people watching the game from the stands to repeat their cheers, too. You can choose from among several basketball cheers that are appropriate for kids. Avoid using inappropriate language in any cheers you use.

  1. Shooting Cheers

    • Shooting cheers are used to pump up your team when you're on the offense. They usually revolve around shooting the ball accurately and encouraging proper aim. For example, one kid basketball cheer could be "Dribble, dribble. Shoot, shoot. Take that ball to the hoop, hoop!" Shooting cheers don't usually involve the other team. Instead, they completely focus on the team shooting the ball. Making your own kid-friendly shooting cheer is straighforward. Use phrases such as "shoot it, sink it, nothing but net!" Use repetitive language for the kids to remember.

    Defensive Cheers

    • Defensive cheers are used to help support a team's defensive efforts. Cheers usually focus on supporting maneuvers, such as blocking and stealing the ball. For example, a defensive cheer might be "Steal it, take it away, move that ball the other way." Defensive cheers can serve as distraction cheers against the other team but are usually focused on supporting your own team's actions. Give your cheers a simple but insistent rhythm that will appeal to a greater fan base to participate.

    Intimidation Cheers

    • Use intimidation cheers to distract the other team and give your home team the advantage. These types of cheers allow kids to banter with members of the opposing team. One popular intimidation cheer is shouting "air ball" right after an opponent shoots a ball. This is a simple phrase that most kids will remember and is appropriate for all ages. Other intimidation cheers include "We've got the power to, we've got the power to, we've got the power to, stomp you." Use intimidation cheers sparingly to avoid poor sportsmanship.

    Scoring Cheers

    • Scoring cheers are used immediately after a team scores a basket. One example of a scoring cheer could be "S-C-O-R-E, Score two more!" Spell each letter of "score" at the beginning of the cheer. Simpler phrases may be more appropriate for kids, such as "Awww yeah, that's two!" A three-point basket cheer shot could be "downtown for three" and a free throw could be "one more, going out the door." These cheers are often more appropriate for children than intimidation cheers.