How to Ride the Bench in a Basketball Game

Being part if a basketball team does not mean you always will be playing in the game. Since only five players can be on the floor at any one time, sometimes, you will be sitting on the bench. Even if you are riding the bench, you can, and should still be, an active participant in the game.

Instructions

    • 1

      Pay attention to the other team. Watch the way that certain players play. Watch which hand a player favors and try to determine if he's a shooter or a passer, plays hard on defense, or tends to rely on a teammate to bail him out. Sharing such information with the players in the game can give your team an edge.

    • 2

      Cheer for your team and provide encouragement. Clap or yell when a teammate scores. Stay upbeat and positive, and encourage the other players on the bench to do the same. Slap hands with players when they come out of the game.

    • 3

      Keep your spirits high and your mind in the game. You must always be prepared to go in if the coach calls for you. Watch the game closely, especially the players competing at your position. This can help you see things you may not notice were you in the game. Think ahead to how you would handle various situations against the player you will have to match up against.