Basketball: Zero puts you in a fast-paced 5v5 game with simple controls and deep character choice. You'll be on the court within seconds, and the first few minutes teach you everything you need.

Core Controls

All the essential moves use just five keys:

  • Shoot — Hold Left Click to charge and release to shoot
  • Pump Fake — Tap Left Click (quick press) to fake your defender out
  • Pass — Right Click to pass to a teammate
  • Dribble — Press Q to move the ball around your opponent
  • Layup/Dunk — Press Spacebar near the basket for an automatic close-range shot
💡 Tip — Tap vs. hold matters. A quick left click pump fakes; holding it shoots. Practice the rhythm so you don't accidentally shoot when you want to feint.

Pick Your Class

Before you join a match, you choose a character class. Each one has unique abilities (called your AURA) that change how you play. Some classes might favor speed and dribbling, others might excel at shooting or defense. Experiment with a few to find your style — there's no "best" class for beginners, just different tools.

Your First Match

Once the game starts, you're on one of two teams with four other players against the other five.

  1. Move toward the ball or position yourself on the court with your mouse.
  2. If a teammate has the ball, move into space and press Right Click to call for a pass.
  3. When you get the ball, decide: shoot from distance (hold Left Click), dribble closer (Q), or pass to an open teammate.
  4. Near the basket, press Spacebar for a layup or dunk instead of a regular shot — it's usually more reliable.
  5. On defense, move between the ball and the basket to block shots and intercept passes.
💡 Tip — Don't hold the ball too long. Pass quickly or shoot — standing still makes you an easy target for defenders to guard.

Shooting and Scoring

Holding Left Click charges your shot. The longer you hold, the more power, but also the more likely a defender blocks you. Tap it quickly for a fast release, or take a breath if you're in space. When you're right at the basket, always use Spacebar (layup/dunk) — it skips the aim and just goes in from close range.

Using Your Aura Ability

Your character class has a special ability tied to its AURA. You'll unlock or activate this as you play — check your class description in the lobby to see what it does. Some examples might boost your shot accuracy, speed, or defense for a few seconds. Use it when you need a clutch moment: a contested shot, a breakaway, or shutting down an opponent's drive.

💡 Tip — Save your AURA for high-pressure moments, not the opening tip-off. It has a cooldown, so spend it wisely.

Common Beginner Mistakes

  • Holding the ball too long: You'll get stolen from or trapped. Keep the pace up — shoot or pass within 2–3 seconds of getting the ball.
  • Shooting from too far away: Distance shots are hard to make. Move closer or pass to a teammate in a better spot.
  • Forgetting to pass: Even if you're the best shooter, 1v5 never works. Always look for an open teammate.
  • Neglecting defense: Standing still on defense lets the other team score easily. Move with your opponent and block their path to the basket.
  • Not using Spacebar near the basket: A layup/dunk is your easiest bucket. Don't waste close-range scoring chances with a charged shot.

Getting Better

After your first few matches, you'll see what works. Try new character classes to feel their strengths. Watch how your teammates move — good positioning and passing rhythm win games. Play defense consistently: ball-watching alone loses games. Stick around for a few matches and you'll find your rhythm fast.