Official H.O.R.S.E Rules
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H.O.R.S.E. is a popular basketball game that tests players' shooting skills. The game is typically played with two or more players and can be enjoyed on any basketball court. Here's how to play:
Objective
The objective of H.O.R.S.E. is to be the last player who hasn't spelled out the word "HORSE." Players earn letters by missing shots that the previous player has made.
Basic Rules
Order of Play: Determine the order of play by mutual agreement or by shooting free throws. The player who makes the most free throws in a row can go first, and so on.
Taking Shots: The first player attempts any type of shot from anywhere on the court. If the shot is made, the next player must replicate the exact shot from the same spot and with the same form.
Matching Shots: If the second player makes the shot, the turn moves to the next player, and so forth. If any player misses the shot, they receive the first letter "H."
Continuing Play: After a missed shot and a letter is given, the next player in line becomes the leader and creates a new shot for others to follow.
Letters: Players continue to accumulate letters each time they fail to replicate a successful shot by another player. The letters are awarded in the following order: H, O, R, S, E.
Elimination: When a player has missed five shots and thus accumulated all five letters to spell "HORSE," they are eliminated from the game.
Winning the Game: The last player remaining, who has not spelled out "HORSE," is the winner.
Additional Rules
Called Shots: Players must call their shots before taking them, specifying any additional requirements (e.g., bank shots, swishes, no backboard, etc.). If a called shot is not specified, any successful shot is valid.
Trick Shots: Players can get creative with trick shots, including shots from behind the backboard, off the court, or with specific constraints like bouncing the ball before it goes in.
Duplicate Shots: If a player calls a shot that has already been attempted during the same game, they must change it or it won't count.
Disputes: Any disputes about whether a shot was performed correctly can be settled by a vote among all players.
Variations
Shorter Words: For quicker games, players can choose to spell shorter words like "PIG" or "CAT" instead of "HORSE."
Timed Shots: Introduce a time limit for each shot to keep the game moving quickly.
One-Handed Shots: Challenge players to make all their shots with their non-dominant hand for added difficulty.
HORSE is a fun and engaging game that can be played with any number of players. It's a great way to practice shooting skills and have fun at the same time.
