Yes, it is bad to kick a basketball. There is almost absolutely no reason to intentionally kick a basketball in the regular sense. However, with every absolute there is always an exception to this rule (I explain below).
Scenarios When Someone Would Kick a Basketball?
There are three important key points I want to discuss related to kicking a basketball. But, first I want to breakdown the three reasons why someone might actually want (or not want) to kick a basketball:
1. Using a Basketball during a Kickball Game
Ok, you and your friends want to play a game of kickball but only have a basketball. Can you use the basketball to play kickball? Not a good idea!
The material used to make a basketball is much different from a kickball. I will explain in greater detail below but essentially basketballs are not made to be kicked.
2. Kicking a Basketball During a Game to Express Anger
Sometimes basketball players get angry during a basketball game and decide to kick the basketball to demonstrate their frustration. This can happen during street basketball or even organized basketball.
This is not good for the basketball and should not be tolerated.
3. “Kicking” Violation in Basketball
There is a violation in basketball for kicking the basketball. This can be called anytime a player intentionally strikes a basketball with his or her foot. This is typically an innocent act of simply moving their foot in front of a pass to block it. If the ball touches their foot it will be called a kickball. There is a section in the NBA rule book that explains it in further detail here.
Reasons not to Kick a Basketball
We talked about three reasons why someone would kick a basketball. Now, I want to discuss four important key points related to kicking a basketball. Breaking down this information will really help you understand “why” kicking a basketball is a bad idea.
1. Material
Basketballs are made from one of three different types of material: rubber, leather and synthetic. The air pressure of a basketball and the material used makes the basketball easily bounce on a hardwood floor or concrete ground. The material and air pressure makes the basketball harder and not conducive to a kick.
In fact, if you were to put a fully inflated basketball between your two hands and squeeze you wouldn’t get much movement. If you did the same thing with a kickball or a volleyball you would get some movement.
This is a good indication that the basketball is too tough and does not give in. If you kick a basketball it likely will not go as far as a kick ball.
2. Injury
Above we talked about the material and how it makes the basketball hard. A player risks injury to their foot or ankle if they kick the ball hard enough. Not to mention, if the basketball is kicked and it hits someone in the face that person can also be injured, or even worse.
It’s important to recognize that basketballs are not designed for kicking, and using improper techniques can increase the likelihood of injury.
A kicked basketball can also end up breaking a window or light in the basketball gym. This can cause significant propery damage which can impact the team’s right to use a practice facility.
It can also cause someone to be injured especially if they are hit with glass.
3. Rules
Basketball rules say no kicking in basketball. Therefore, the very existence of this rule is a good reason not to kick in basketball. If you watch alot of basketball you will see this call happen frequently.
Players move their feet to adjust positioning for a better advantage. This is common in basketball and it is very easy for a player to react to a pass by placing their foot in the way forcing the referee to make the “kickball” call.
4. Sportsmanship
Kicking a basketball out of anger is a poor display of sportsmanship. Basketball players need to have self control and avoid instances where they make poor decisions such as kicking a basketball for whatever reason.
I have personally witnessed players intentionally kick the basketball. Some kicked it because they were mad and some have kicked the basketball because they lacked maturity and thought it would be funny.
Either way there are several reasons why kicking a basketball is not appropriate.
Conclusion:
In summary, while it may be tempting to kick a basketball in certain situations, it’s generally not recommended due to the potential harm it can cause to the ball itself, the risk of injury, and the negative impact on sportsmanship. Respecting the equipment, adhering to proper techniques, and finding alternative ways to cope with frustration or disappointment are essential aspects of maintaining a positive and enjoyable basketball experience for all involved.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Yes, kicking a basketball poses the risk of injuries, especially to the person delivering the kick. The unpredictable nature of the ball’s movement or the force exerted during the kick may lead to foot or ankle injuries.
While accidental contact with the foot may occur during the course of a game, intentional kicking is generally not acceptable in basketball. It can lead to rule violations, potential injuries, and damage to the equipment.
Generally, kicking a basketball is not incorporated into standard training exercises. Basketball training focuses on skill development, teamwork, and proper techniques. Intentional kicking may lead to bad habits and potential injuries.
Coaches should emphasize the importance of proper sportsmanship and discourage players from kicking the basketball. Implementing constructive ways to cope with frustration, promoting teamwork, and fostering a positive atmosphere on the court are essential coaching strategies.
faqs