Yes, but not in the original Wii Sports. Basketball is included in Wii Sports Resort, the follow-up game for the Wii.
This distinction matters if you are choosing a game or checking a used disc. Here’s where to find basketball, what modes are available, and what equipment you may need.
does wii sports have basketball?
The original Wii Sports does not have basketball. Its five sports are tennis, baseball, bowling, golf, and boxing. Basketball appears in Wii Sports Resort instead.
That means a copy labeled simply Wii Sports won’t let you play basketball, even though both games are part of the same series. Look for Wii Sports Resort on the case or disc when shopping.
Which Wii game includes basketball?
Wii Sports Resort is a separate Wii game that adds basketball along with other activities. Its basketball section offers a three-point contest and a pickup game. The contest focuses on shooting from marked spots, while pickup lets players compete in a short team game.
Basketball uses motion controls, so you move the Wii Remote to perform actions rather than pressing buttons for every movement. Follow the on-screen directions when a mode starts; they explain the motions for that activity.
| Game | Basketball included? | What to know | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wii Sports | No | Includes tennis, baseball, bowling, golf, and boxing. | Playing the original five sports |
| Wii Sports Resort | Yes | Includes basketball modes such as a three-point contest and pickup game. | Playing basketball on Wii |
| Wii Sports Club | No | A separate Wii U game with its own selection of sports. | Playing the Wii U version of the series |
What basketball modes can you play in Wii Sports Resort?
Three-point contest
The three-point contest is a shooting challenge. You take shots from designated positions and try to make as many as you can within the mode’s time limit. It is a good choice if you want a quick solo activity or a straightforward competition with other players.
Pay attention to the on-screen prompts and use a controlled throwing motion. A large, rushed swing is not automatically better; consistent timing makes it easier to repeat your shot.
Pickup game
The pickup game is a short basketball match rather than a series of individual shots. It gives you a team-based option for playing with other people. Check the mode’s player setup before starting so everyone knows when to take a turn and which side they are on.
It is a simplified video-game version of basketball, not a full simulation of a real match. The appeal is quick, motion-controlled play rather than detailed team management or a long season.
What equipment do you need?
You need a Wii console, a copy of Wii Sports Resort, and a Wii Remote. Wii Sports Resort uses Wii MotionPlus motion sensing. Depending on your controller, that may be built into the Wii Remote or provided by a MotionPlus accessory attached to it.
Before buying a used copy, check both the game listing and your controller. Some bundles included the required motion-sensing equipment, but a standalone used disc may not. Confirm that your Wii Remote has the necessary MotionPlus capability, or the game may not work as expected.
- Game: Choose Wii Sports Resort, not the original Wii Sports.
- Controller: Use a Wii Remote with Wii MotionPlus or a compatible MotionPlus accessory.
- Space: Stand far enough from other people and furniture to swing the remote safely.
- Setup: Use the on-screen instructions to choose a basketball mode and learn its controls.
How to check that you’re buying the basketball game
- Read the full title. The case or listing should say Wii Sports Resort. The word “Resort” is the important clue.
- Check the disc label. Make sure it matches the game title, especially when buying a loose disc without its case.
- Confirm the platform. Wii Sports Club is a Wii U game, not the Wii version that contains Resort basketball.
- Check for MotionPlus. Confirm that your controller setup supports the game’s motion-sensing requirements.
This quick check prevents a common mix-up: the original game and its follow-up have similar names, but they do not contain the same sports. If basketball is your main reason for buying, the safest choice is a listing that clearly identifies Wii Sports Resort.
Common mix-ups about Wii basketball
“Wii Sports has basketball because it’s a sports collection.” The original collection has five sports, but basketball is not one of them. It is found in Wii Sports Resort.
“Any Wii Sports disc will work.” The game title matters. Buying the original Wii Sports won’t add basketball, even if the listing uses a broad description such as “Wii sports game.”
“Wii Sports Club is the same as Resort.” It is a different release for a different Nintendo system, and it does not provide the Resort basketball modes. Check the complete title and console before purchasing.
Wii Sports Resort is the Wii game to choose if you want motion-controlled basketball. Check the title on the disc and make sure your Wii Remote has MotionPlus support before you buy.
If you already own the game, start with the three-point contest to get used to the shooting motions, then try pickup. Leave enough room around you before swinging the remote.