SlamBall

SlamBall is a team sport that combines elements of basketball, American football, and trampoline acrobatics. It is played on a specially designed court featuring four trampolines inset into the floor near each basket. These trampolines allow players to achieve significantly greater height and perform acrobatic dunks.

Gameplay:

The game is played between two teams of four players each. The objective is to score points by throwing or dunking a basketball through the opponent's hoop. Games are typically divided into four quarters.

The court consists of a rectangular area with two goals at opposite ends. Key features include:

• Trampolines: Four trampolines are positioned in front of each net. These trampolines are typically 7'x14' or similar dimensions. Players bounce on these to gain height for dunks and shots.
• Pads: The area surrounding the trampolines is padded to cushion falls and prevent injuries.
• Boundaries: Similar to basketball, there are out-of-bounds lines.

Rules:

SlamBall has a unique set of rules designed to promote fast-paced, high-scoring action. These rules blend aspects of basketball and football. Key aspects of the rules include:

• Contact: A significant amount of contact is allowed, similar to football. This allows for defensive players to impede offensive players' progress towards the trampolines.
• Scoring: A dunk is worth three points. A shot outside the trampoline zone is worth two points. A successful free throw is worth one point.
• Penalties: Fouls result in penalties, including free throws or possession changes.
• Game Flow: Games are fast-paced with limited stoppages.

History:

SlamBall was invented by Mason Gordon in 2002. The sport gained popularity in the early 2000s with its televised games on networks like Spike TV. While the initial league folded, SlamBall experienced a revival in recent years, with new leagues and tournaments being formed.

Strategy:

SlamBall strategy involves a combination of athleticism, teamwork, and coordination. Effective teams utilize the trampolines to create scoring opportunities, while also employing physical defense to prevent the opposing team from reaching the trampolines. Player roles often include a "handler" (similar to a point guard), a "gunner" (a primary scorer), and "stopper" (a defensive specialist).