How to Become a Sports Fan in 10 Days: NBA Edition

The first time I ever played basketball I thought I was the next Micheal Jordan in the making. As I was dribbling down the court—my team behind me—there was no one in my way. I went up to make the shot and when it toppled in, all the fans cheered…well the wrong fans cheered.

So proud of my first time scoring in a game, my confidence was through the roof. Until I looked at the scoreboard and saw the opposing teams' points increase. 

Once the realization kicked in that I in fact scored in my own team's basket the immense embarrassment took over my emotions and from that moment I knew if I wanted to keep playing basketball I would have to actually learn the sport.

Whether you want to be a court side baddie who knows more than just the starting five or share the same embarrassing story like me. Here is a step by step on how to become an NBA fan in 10 days. 


Day 1: The Sport of the Season

Source: Unsplash

When you see it's dark out before 6 pm that's your sign that it's officially basketball season. The National Basketball Association (NBA) takes place during October through June. It is split into 2 conferences ,Western and Eastern, and six divisions ,Northwest, Pacific, Southwest, Atlantic, Central, and Southeast divisions. 

Each team plays a total of 82 games. The season can feel like a stretch but with rivalries, playoffs and the Finals the game keeps you entertained and for some stressed the whole season. 


Day 2: What teams are in each division

Western

Northwest

  1. Utah Jazz

  2. Denver Nuggets

  3. Oklahoma City Thunder

  4. Portland Trail Blazers

  5. Minnesota Timberwolves

Pacific

Source: Unsplash


Day 3: What teams are in each division cont.

Eastern

Source: Unsplash


DAY 4: The Positions 

  • Center: The tallest person on the team, the center tries to either score close shots at the basket and make rebounds or if they are on defense they try to block shots and rebound misses. 

  • Power Forward: They also play close to the basket while rebounding and defending opponents but they take longer shots then a center would.  

  • Small Forward: Taking on small and larger players a small forward is all over the court taking long and close to the basket shots. 

  • Point Guard: The point guard runs the offense and is usually the best shooter and dribbler on the team. They also defend the other team's point guard. 

  • Shooting Guard:Shooting Guard: They make long shots and are a good dribbler. 


Day 5 and 6: The basics of the sport

Like mentioned in “How to Become A Sports Fan in 10 Days NFL Edition” Mariah Rose is a great tik tok sports influencer to watch to learn the ins and outs of basketball. Her series Hoops for Hotties is a trending hit on the app.  


Day 7: When to Watch

The NBA plays mostly evening and night games throughout the week. To watch the games you can tune into ESPN, ESPN2, and ABC. If you already have your favorite team in mind head over to the NBA website to see their 2023- 2024 schedule. 


Day 8:  Where to watch 

If you want to feel like you're a part of the game without actually being there, check out these sports bars that imitate the crazy and fun spirit of a real basketball game. 

Source: We Are Spin


Day 9: What to wear 

For all the courtside baddies or just lovers of basketball, deciding what to wear to a basketball game can be hard. Do you go more casual with jeans and sneakers or spice it up with a jumbotron-worthy outfit?

Whether you like to keep it simple or go all out, here are a few outfit suggestions to have you looking game-day ready. 

You can’t go wrong with a pair of black cargo pants paired with your favorite team jersey.

If you're not into cargos try a pair of baggy jeans and colorful sneakers to match.

If you want to switch it up, wear your favorite teams jacket with a simple top underneath for an effortless look.

For all the courtside besties who want to step out, you can never go wrong with the small top-big bottoms combo.

If you’re more on the comfy side, then a simple black long sleeve with some statement slides is always a good move.


Day 10: Get in the Mood

You have your tickets and know where you are going to watch the big game. Get hyped for tipoff with these movies.

Source: Netflix


Will you be following this guide? Leave a comment below!