Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about joining pickup basketball games, connecting with local players, and getting early access across the UK

Updated October 2025

How do I find and join pickup basketball games in the UK?

HoopsLondon connects you with pickup basketball games across 9 major UK cities including London, Manchester, Birmingham, Leeds, Bristol, Liverpool, Sheffield, Glasgow, and Edinburgh. Select your city from the dropdown, sign up as a player through GameOn Active, and you'll be notified of games happening near you.

What cities does HoopsLondon cover?

HoopsLondon currently covers 9 major UK cities:

  • London
  • Manchester
  • Birmingham
  • Leeds
  • Bristol
  • Liverpool
  • Sheffield
  • Glasgow
  • Edinburgh

More cities are being added as GameOn Active expands across the UK and US.

How much does it cost to join a basketball game?

Joining games through GameOn Active is free. Many outdoor courts and community pickup games are also free to play. Indoor sessions at sports centres may have a small fee set by the organizer. Check each game listing on GameOn Active for any session costs.

What skill levels are welcome at pickup games?

All skill levels are welcome. Whether you're picking up a basketball for the first time or you've been playing for years, GameOn Active's pickup games cater to everyone. Organizers set the skill level for their sessions so you can find games that match your playing level — from casual shootarounds to competitive runs.

Can I organise a basketball session or tournament through the platform?

Yes! GameOn Active lets organizers create and manage their own sessions, invite players, and fill their games. Sign up as an organizer through HoopsLondon to get early access and start building your basketball community.

How do I connect with the local basketball community?

Connect with local basketball players through our "Join a Game" feature which links to GameOn Active's community platform. You can discover regular runs, meet players in your area, organize games, and build your basketball network. The community is growing — join early and help shape it.

What equipment do I need for pickup basketball games?

For pickup basketball games, you typically need basketball shoes with good ankle support, comfortable athletic clothing, and water. Most outdoor courts require you to bring your own basketball, while indoor facilities usually provide balls. Some players also bring a spare shirt for teams vs. skins games.

How do I get notified about games in my city?

Sign up through HoopsLondon for free and we'll send game alerts directly to your inbox. You'll hear about new pickup games as soon as organizers post them in your city — no more searching, just showing up and playing.

What are the best times to play pickup basketball?

Peak pickup basketball times are typically weekday evenings (6-9 PM) and weekend mornings (9 AM-12 PM). However, times vary by location and local player preferences. Join the GameOn Active community to discover when regular runs happen in your city and connect with players who match your schedule.

How do I invite friends or teammates to join HoopsLondon?

Click "Invite Friends to Play" on any city page to get your personal referral link. Share it via WhatsApp, Twitter, Facebook, email — or drop it straight into your team group chat. When friends click your link they land on your city page and can immediately find pickup games and join the community. Great for getting a whole squad onto the platform at once.

Ready to Join a Game?

Join the early access launch — free, and open now