good hook for basketball essay

• [ September 13, 2024 ] Will Oregon Beat Oregon State? Preview And Prediction Oregon Ducks
• [ September 13, 2024 ] Fall Races In And Around Portland For Amateur Runners Health & Fitness
• [ September 13, 2024 ] Portland Trail Blazers – Destined For The Bottom Of The West? Portland Trail Blazers
• [ September 13, 2024 ] Can Oregon State Hold Down Dillon Gabriel? Week 3 Preview And Prediction Oregon State Beavers
• [ September 13, 2024 ] Nick Bartlett’s 2024 Week 3 College Football Fearless Predictions Oregon Ducks

7 Hooks To Run When Writing An Essay On Sports

So you have to write an essay that is related to sports. Great! Sports is an interesting topic that can be made even more interesting depending on how you present it.

One of the best ways to get readers interested and motivated to read your essay is by having a hook. A hook is the first sentence or two that is designed to really captivate the reader. It should be related to your overall topic but doesn’t necessarily have to be the focus of your essay, just connected. It should also be something that is surprising or thought-provoking.

There are several types of hooks that you can use. Here we will go over each one, plus some useful examples so you can see them in action! All of the following are sports related.

Quotations used as hooks can either be used to make the reader think or be said by someone famous in order to draw the reader in. Using a quote makes for a good introduction because it provides a good lead in to your topic.

“If you’re not the first, then you’re the last.” – Ricky Bobby

“Talent wins games, but teamwork and intelligence win championships.” – Michael Jordan

“Pain is temporary. Greatness is forever.”

• Personal Experience

Personal experience with a particular subject in sports will make your hook very interesting because you are putting yourself in your essay. Most poorly written essays are very dry and boring because they have no sense of a person. Starting with the personal experience shows the reader that the author (you) is present.

I’ll never forget the summer of 1989 when the Buck won the championship.

I absolutely hated Physical Education while I was growing up.

Once, I got hit in the head so hard with a baseball that it knocked me unconscious.

Facts or statistics can often surprise readers. That should be your goal when using this hook. You want them to be intrigued by the figure or real statement you have just given. It could be something unusual, impressive, or profound.

There are only two days out of the year that do not feature any professional sports games in the U.S.

The average golf ball has 336 divots.

In 15 seasons with the New York Yankees, Babe Ruth only won four World Series.

• Rhetorical Questions

Rhetorical questions are questions that you don’t expect to be answered. They are either to state the obvious or to make you think. They are often used as hooks in essays to help lead the reader to the topic of the paper. There is no way they can be answered anyway because essays are a one-sided conversation! The answer should be written directly after it is given.

What’s the one thing that can bring a nation together and instill national pride?

Why do different countries have different sports?

Who will win the Super Bowl this year?

Anecdotes are stories. They are very closely related to personal experience, and can even often be the same thing. We’ve made them different categories because personal experience is always about you or something you know, whereas an anecdote can be about anyone or anything.

Mother of three, Anna Smith lost her leg while running the Boston Marathon.

It was a dark and stormy night when the teen had finally decided what he wanted to be. He was going to pour all his effort into becoming the world’s best hockey player.

• Controversial Statements

Controversy is everywhere, and that is inclusive of sports. Controversial statements instantly give the reader a chance to say I completely agree, or I disagree. If they agree, they will be eager to hear what they already know to make their decision stronger. If they disagree, they will be eager to read and find the flaws in your argument. Either way, it’s a good hook!

American football needs to be discontinued because of the growing evidence that hard hits can lead to death over time.

All professional sports player should be required to go to college in order to be able to participate.

The GPA should be raised to 2.5 for high school students to participate in team sports.

Your thesis will outline the broad reasons you agree or disagree with the controversial statement.

There are such things as definition essays, in fact, you may have written one before, but using a definition as a hook is different. It gives a good idea as to what your essay will be about and although since a definition is so clear, it paves the way for you to write about how it applies to your topic in a flexible or rigid way.

A sore loser is someone who easily gets upset after losing and tends to blame others for the loss.

Teamwork is defined as the combined action of a group of people, especially when effective and efficient.

As you can see, you have many options when it comes to finding the perfect hook. You just have to decide which one will work best for writing your particular academic essay from scratch . Which is your style? Which will resonate with your readers more? Answer these questions, and you’re on the right track!

• sportswriting

Copyright © 2024 | MH Magazine WordPress Theme by MH Themes

Presentations made painless

• Get Premium

114 Basketball Essay Topic Ideas & Examples

Inside This Article

Title: 114 Basketball Essay Topic Ideas & Examples

Introduction:

Basketball is a popular and dynamic sport that has captivated the hearts of millions worldwide. Whether you are an avid player, a die-hard fan, or simply interested in sports, writing an essay about basketball can offer a unique and engaging experience. To help you get started, we have compiled a list of 114 basketball essay topic ideas and examples. From historical milestones to the impact of basketball on society, these topics cover a wide range of aspects related to the sport. Let's explore some of the exciting possibilities!

• The Evolution of Basketball: From its inception to modern-day techniques and strategies.
• The Impact of Basketball on American Culture: How basketball has influenced music, fashion, and entertainment.
• The Role of Women in Basketball: Examining the growth and contributions of female athletes in the sport.
• The Psychological Benefits of Basketball: Exploring the positive effects of playing basketball on mental health.
• The Business of Basketball: Analyzing the economic aspects of the sport, including sponsorships and endorsements.
• The Importance of Teamwork in Basketball: Discussing how collaboration and cooperation contribute to success on the court.
• The Role of Coaches in Basketball: Investigating the influence of coaches on player development and team performance.
• The Impact of Basketball on Youth Development: Examining how basketball can shape character, discipline, and leadership skills.
• The Rivalry Between NBA Teams: Analyzing legendary rivalries and their impact on the sport.
• The Psychology of Winning and Losing in Basketball: Exploring the mindset of athletes during victories and defeats.
• The Influence of Basketball in Education: Assessing the benefits of integrating basketball into school curricula.
• The Globalization of Basketball: Investigating how the sport has spread and gained popularity worldwide.
• The Role of Basketball in Social Justice Movements: Examining the efforts of basketball players to advocate for equality and social change.
• The Impact of Basketball Analytics: Analyzing the use of data and statistics in basketball strategy and player evaluation.
• The Role of Basketball in Community Development: Discussing how basketball programs can foster a sense of belonging and unity in local communities.

To provide a glimpse into the potential depth and breadth of basketball essay topics, here are a few examples:

• The Legendary Rivalry: Comparing and contrasting the rivalry between Magic Johnson and Larry Bird.
• The Rise of Women's Basketball: Investigating the evolution of the WNBA and its impact on gender equality in sports.
• The Influence of Michael Jordan: Analyzing the cultural impact and legacy of one of the greatest basketball players of all time.
• From Slum to Stardom: Exploring the inspiring journey of basketball players who overcame adversity to achieve success.
• The Global Phenomenon: Examining the impact of Yao Ming on the popularity of basketball in China.
• The Power of Basketball Films: Analyzing how movies like "Hoosiers" and "Space Jam" have contributed to the sport's cultural significance.
• The NBA and Social Activism: Discussing the efforts of players like LeBron James and Colin Kaepernick in advocating for social justice.

Conclusion:

Basketball offers a vast array of essay topics that can captivate and inspire both sports enthusiasts and academic minds alike. Whether you choose to delve into historical moments, cultural impacts, or the psychology behind the sport, exploring the various aspects of basketball can lead to thought-provoking and engaging essays. The 114 topic ideas and examples provided here are just the tip of the iceberg, so feel free to dive deeper and discover your own unique basketball essay topics.

Want to research companies faster?

Instantly access industry insights

Let PitchGrade do this for me

Leverage powerful AI research capabilities

We will create your text and designs for you. Sit back and relax while we do the work.

Explore More Content

• Privacy Policy
• Terms of Service

© 2024 Pitchgrade

• Essay Topic Generator
• Summary Generator
• Thesis Maker Academic
• Sentence Rephraser
• Read My Paper
• Hypothesis Generator
• Cover Page Generator
• Text Compactor
• Essay Scrambler
• Essay Plagiarism Checker
• Hook Generator
• AI Writing Checker
• Notes Maker
• Overnight Essay Writing
• Topic Ideas
• Writing Tips
• Essay Writing (by Genre)
• Essay Writing (by Topic)

148 Excellent Basketball Essay & Speech Topics for Students

If you want to write a memorable essay on basketball, you have chosen the right article.

Are you a player, or do you prefer to watch the game? Doesn’t matter! We all are here to write a good essay about basketball. Read this article to find some ideas and inspiration. We have prepared a list of 150 basketball essay titles for you!

• 🏀 Top 20 Basketball Topics
• 🗑️ Topics for Any Taste
• ⛹️‍♀️ Basketball Research Topics
• ⛹️‍♂️ Basketball Speech Topics
• 📚 Basketball Inspiration

If you don’t know much about basketball, you can learn from this article!

Check each section to find the best topic! First are the hottest 20 basketball topics – these are the themes relevant all the time. The following selection suggests topics for literally any taste; then read topics for research about basketball. And, finally, basketball speech topics, in case you have to prepare a speech about basketball.

🏀 Top 20 Basketball Essay Topics

• The history of NBA creation and its influence in the modern world.
• Do elite basketball athletes deserve their high salaries?
• Basketball athletes train hard: describe their workout and eating routines.
• Salary discrimination in NBA.
• The benefits of basketball socialization among children and young adults.
• Basketball vs. football. What are the key differences between the games?
• How to become a successful professional basketball player?
• Playing basketball in high school and college helps to develop communicational skills.
• How was basketball created and popularized?
• Doping ussue in basketball.
• Basketball at the Olympic games. The critical historical moments.
• Gender inequality in basketball.
• Is professional basketball an appropriate type of sport for amateurs?
• The psychological benefits of team sports. The case of basketball.
• Playing basketball is an excellent activity for people with sedentary lifestyles.
• The dangers of playing basketball: from bullying to physical traumas.
• The culture of basketball among American citizens 20 years ago and today.
• Management and marketing of basketball.
• Does talent or persistence play a primary role in a basketball career?
• Why do basketball fans support particular teams or players?

🗑️ Basketball Essay Topics for Any Taste

In this section, you will find basketball essay ideas on various topics: game rules, rules violation, famous basketball players, college & high school basketball essay, and funny basketball essay topics. Make sure to read them all and choose the best one!

Basketball Essay Topics: Rules of the Game

• Who created the rules of the basketball game? Describe James Naismith, the teacher who started the game. What was his incentive? How did he develop the idea?
• What were the original 13 rules of dr. James Naismith? Basketball rules were not the same as we can see them today. Compare the modern practices with the original ones.
• Why are there only five players on a basketball court? At first, there was no rule like this. There could be seven or even eight players on the court.
• The main types of basketball shots and the scoring. Explain the types of shots from different lines. Write about shooting techniques.
• The requirements for basketball courts: the size and the markings. You can write about it from a historical perspective and describe the changes. Also, you can talk about men’s and women’s basketball courts.
• Using foul strategy in basketball.
• The differences between the rules in NBA, WNBA, and NCAA .
• The way basketball rules changed over time.
• The rules of the offense and defense teams : the key differences.
• The rule differences for men and women in basketball.

Basketball Essay Topics: Rules Violation

• The primary rule violations in basketball. You can write about traveling, the 5-second rule, etc. explain why they are breaking the rules and when they appeared.
• NBA rule number 10: violations and penalties. Describe the critical moments of rules violation, provide the corresponding sections of the rule, and explain the cases.
• Fights and quarrels between basketball teams during games. Provide some examples of the most famous fights and reasons for them. Include media coverage and overall reaction.
• The consequences of breaking the rules in basketball. Explain what the difference between the occurring fouls and violations is.
• Time, dribbling, and goaltending violations in basketball. Describe each type of violation and why they happen.
• Non-foul and foul rules violations in basketball.
• Describe penalties for different types of fouls .
• What are the most common types of basketball infringement?
• Performance-enhancing drugs in basketball.
• Steroids in basketball. Legalized and prohibited supplements .

Basketball Essay Topics about Famous Players

• Michael Jordan : training program, lifestyle, and habits. No doubt, he is one of the key players of all time. Write about Michael Jordan’s routine and explain why it helped him to achieve such results.
• Bill Russell : one of the greatest defenders of all time. Explain how he earned such a reputation playing for Boston Celtics. Describe his rebounding abilities.
• Lebron James’s sports career and social activity. There were several teams he played for, including the US national team. He is also a supporter of several non-profit organizations and has an active social life.
• Earvin “Magic” Johnson’s charity and struggles with AIDS. Describe his HIV activism and participation in the national commission on AIDS. Write about the charity events he organized .
• Oscar Robertson’s statistics and contribution to basketball. Write about his achievements during the 1963-1964 season. Mention his key career points.
• Who is the most famous basketball player of today?
• Larry Bird’s biography and his way to success.
• How Lebron James became one of the most significant players of all time?
• How Wilt Chamberlain changed basketball as a sport?
• How Tim Duncan earned his nickname “the Big Fundamental?”

College & High School Basketball Essay Topics

• A basketball scholarship is a way to start a successful career. Many professional players begin their career playing for a college team. Explain why scholarships give young players a chance to become pros.
• Why do children feel less motivated to play active games? The reason might be the role of mobile phones and other technologies, lack of time, or overprotective parents.
• The benefits of playing basketball for children. Like any active sport, basketball has a positive effect on physical development. Describe why sports, especially team games, are suitable for children.
• The role of team sports in high school and college. Players, fans, and competition. Describe how this system is organized, the (un)written rules, the distribution of roles, and other aspects.
• Why are team games such as basketball important in children’s development?
• Basketball, volleyball or football: which game is the safest for children?
• What life lessons can basketball teach children?
• How to motivate young players and keep them interested?
• Why do children dream of becoming basketball players?
• The significance of basketball championships at the college level.

Funny Basketball Essay Topics

• How many calories do professional basketball players consume?
• What is the scariest thing to a basketball player?
• The funniest nicknames given to basketball players.
• How being tall as a basketball player changes your life?
• Why was the ball color changed to orange?
• What are the hilarious rules that don’t make sense?
• Simulation and exaggerating in basketball: lousy acting.
• Why were Jordan sneakers banned from the NBA?
• The funniest basketball variations that are surprisingly popular.
• The shortest and the tallest players in NBA.

⛹️‍♀️ Excellent Topics for a Basketball Research Paper

Now, if it is more serious than an essay – here are some good topics to write a basketball research paper on. The history of basketball, psychology research, and some controversial topics for a good basketball research paper – will make a great paper.

Women’s Basketball Topics

• Gender inequality in team sports. Is women’s basketball a popular sport? Compare several team sports. Write about media coverage, pay gaps, and other statistics.
• The portrayal of female basketball players in the media. Describe the most popular women in the sport and their public appearances covered by the media.
• Levels of competition in women’s basketball in the United States. Describe college games, types of professional leagues, and international competitions.
• Women basketball players in cinematography and literature. The three films that you might need are O ff The Rez , She Got Game , and Training Rules . You can also compare them to men’s portrayal in cinema about basketball.
• The history of WNBA creation and its role in women’s sports.
• An overview of the professional leagues in women’s basketball.
• Why do female basketball players receive a lower income than men ?
• The best women’s basketball teams of all time.
• The best women basketball players of all time.
• The career competition among women basketball players in the United States.

Topics for a Paper about Basketball History

• Basketball uniform variations and changes through history. Basketball exists more than one hundred years. Indeed, materials and styles change. Discuss the significant modifications in uniform and footwear.
• The evolution of basketball: significant changes and perception . Describe how a school game became one of the most popular team sports.
• The first basketball game in Europe: Paris, 1983. Explain why it was an important sport event and what its impact was. What challenges did they face?
• Top highest-scoring game in NBA history . You can write about the statistics of each game. Mention the members of the teams who played the most prominent roles in the result.
• The Naismith memorial basketball hall of fame . Describe the location and the members. Explain who built it and why.
• Basketball in the 20th century and now. What is different?
• The early years of basketball. How did the sport become popular?
• How the culture of basketball evolved and changed?
• The greatest basketball coaches in history and their contribution to the sports.
• The role of YMCA in basketball popularization.

Controversial Basketball Topics for Research

• Cardiovascular diseases and joint problems among professional players. Each professional sport is a risk of trauma. Describe typical injuries and illnesses among basketball players .
• “No tolerance rule” and technical fouls injustice. NBA created a new rule at the start of the 2006-2007 season. Officials can sign technical fouls to players who complain about calls.
• The connection between basketball and politics in the modern world. Describe the political positions of NBA players. Write about protests and activism.
• The bond between basketball and hip-hop culture . Explain the influence of hip-hop subculture on the sport. Then, describe famous players’ music careers.
• Bullying and accusations of racism in basketball. Write about the issues and famous examples. Then, describe the positions of associations and the way they fight the problems.
• When is the right time for professional basketball players to retire?
• Injuries in basketball. Is it possible to avoid or prevent them ?
• A career in sports: pros and cons of choice.
• Do great basketball players inevitably become great coaches?
• Should tournaments be held during the lockdown?

Basketball Psychology Research Paper Topics

• Basketball is a way to cure mental illnesses. How do sports help mental health? What are the benefits of team sports in particular?
• Sports psychologist: the primary responsibilities of the profession. Research the spheres of their work. It might be motivation, anxiety, or rehabilitation.
• Why do basketball athletes need to train their minds? Sports are challenging not only on the physical level. Discuss why mental stamina is vital for athletes.
• Mental pressure in professional basketball: the ways to deal with it. Pro players deal with a lot of attention. Media, fans, and haters – how to fight all the negative coming from the outside?
• The bond between mindfulness and exemplary performance in basketball. Write about typical practices of athletes and how it affects performance. Physical and psychological relief with the help of basketball. Myth or reality?
• The benefits of playing basketball for curing depression.
• How can your attitude to life change performance in basketball?
• Why do professional athletes struggle with depression and stress after retirement?
• How can basketball affect the mental health of the players?

⛹️‍♂️ Good Topics for a Speech about Basketball

Do you need to prepare a speech about basketball? Consider these themes: iconic basketball moments, international basketball, motivational and informative topics about basketball.

Speech about Basketball Iconic Moments

• Karem Abdul-Jabaar won his sixth MVP award in 1980. It is NBA’s most valuable player award. Explain why he deserved the honor and what its significance was.
• Shaquille O’Neal became one of the “50 greatest players in history” at the age of 24. In October 1996, he became a part of the NBA’s top 50. It was a great honor to join the list at such a young age.
• Magic Johnson at 1980 finals, game 6. It was one of the greatest moments in his career. Magic Johnson scored 42 points, and the Lakers won the game.
• Michael Jordan’s final shot at the finals of 1998. NBA finals of 1998 have the highest TV rating in history. It was his last game for Chicago Bulls before retirement.
• Bill Russell: top 10 iconic moments in his career.
• Michael Jordan’s most significant moments in NBA history.
• Game 5 between Boston Celtics and Phoenix Suns in 1976.
• What was the most excellent game in basketball history?
• The 1965 eastern division finals . Bill Russell and Wilt Chamberlain’s rivalry.
• Larry Bird’s steal at the eastern conference finals in 1987.

Topics for a Speech about International Basketball

• FIBA: the eight founding nations and amateur sport. FIBA was founded in 1932 in Geneva as an amateur organization. At first, there were only seven national associations.
• The popularity of basketball outside the United States. Of course, Americans were the first nation to popularize the sport worldwide. These days basketball is one of the most famous team sports in any country.
• The United States “Dream Team” and the 1992 summer Olympics . It was the first national team in which were only pro players from the NBA. Discuss their legacy and performance.
• Basketball in South Africa: BSA and teams . BSA is a part of FIBA and consists of six national teams. Discuss the impact of NBA and FIBA on basketball in Africa.
• Basketball in East Asian countries: the influence of the cultural aspects . Discuss the pro and amateur leagues. Talk about basketball’s popularity among children and adults.
• The differences between basketball leagues in Europe and the USA. International basketball association organization and franchises.
• FIBA Europe. How is it organized?
• Famous European basketball teams and athletes.
• Professional basketball leagues outside the United States.

Topics for a Basketball Motivational Speech

• Famous basketball players as role models for the young generation . Many young boys and girls want to become rich and famous athletes. Write about why they like basketball players and use them as role models.
• Michael Jordan: from a pro player to a successful brand owner. It was hard for him to retire fully, so he even came back several times. Now he is an owner of the Jordan brand and a billionaire.
• Why mental stamina is as important as physical abilities. Talk about stress and pressure pro players face in their careers.
• The advice of famous basketball players on building a career in sports. Talk about renowned player’s interview moments when they answer this question. You can also include their speeches in front of young players.
• What motivates successful basketball players to achieve more?
• How much does it take to become a professional basketball player?
• Why basketball community is the best way to motivate junior athletes?
• How successful basketball players manage their time?
• How do coaches motivate their team before essential games?
• Why is discipline more essential than talent in basketball?

Informative Speech About Basketball

• The greatest basketball exhibition games in history. There are usually eight NBA preseason games per year. You can also discuss college exhibition games.
• Basketball tournaments and workouts during coronavirus pandemic . Discuss how the pandemic changed the lives of athletes and fans . Describe the training routine and safety measures.
• The significance of basketball Guinness records . The highest jump, the longest shot, the fastest run, etc. Discuss the impact of the records.
• The responsibilities of basketball officials during tournaments. There are two or three referees with a court area to watch for each one. Discuss their positions and roles in the game.
• How do basketball players train in winter and summer?
• How are basketball training programs developed and implemented?
• Basketball terminology and slang. How to sound like a pro?
• Basketball coaching and teaching styles vital differences.
• Professional basketball player’s training and nutrition facts.
• The importance of keeping the positions in professional basketball teams.

💡 Where to Get Ideas for a Basketball Essay or Speech?

There are so many movies, books, and blogs about basketball. They can be motivational, informing, and even touching. Each of them can inspire you to start playing basketball or to write a perfect essay.

We offer to pay attention to the following cultural product

Wondering what books are informative and engaging at the same time? Just choose one from this list! Here are our top picks.

• ‘The Breaks of the Game’ (1981) by David Halberstam
• ‘A Season on the Brink’ (1986) by John Feinstein
• ‘The Jordan Rules’ (1991) by Sam Smith
• ‘Pistol: The Life of Pete Maravich’ (2007) by Mark Kriegel
• ‘Eleven Rings: The Soul of Success’ (2013) by Phil Jackson and Hugh Delehanty
• ‘Dream Team’ (2013) by Jack McCallum

Do you enjoy watching movies? Well, it is a great idea to prepare your assignment while doing what you love. Check our compilation

• ‘He Got Game’ (1998), dir. Spike Lee
• ‘White Men Can’t Jump’ (1992), dir. Ron Shelton
• ‘The Basketball Diaries’ (1996), dir. Scott Kalvert
• ‘Coach Carter’ (2005), dir. Thomas Carter
• ‘Love and Basketball’ (2000), dir. Gina Prince-Bythewood
• ‘High Flying Bird’ (2019), dir. Steven Soderbergh

For more ideas, see this list: The 20 Best Basketball Movies Ever Made

Media + Blogs

It is a great way to read some real-life stories and to know a lot of new information. You can read blogs about sports lifestyles, basketball championships, and training routines.

• International Basketball Federation (FIBA) – FIBA.basketball
• HoopsHype | NBA Rumors, News, Salaries
• RealGM – Basketball News, Rumors, Scores, Stats, Analysis, Depth Charts, Forums
• The official site of the NBA for the latest NBA Scores, Stats & News. | NBA.com
• NBA – National Basketball Association Teams, Scores, Stats, News, Standings, Rumors – ESPN
• Latest Basketball News & Headlines, Top Stories Today – The Straits Times
• SLAM: NBA News & Rumors, Kicks, College & High School, Hoops 24/7
• The Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame

Hope this article will help you feel the game and write a great essay!

Try our free essay topic generator if you need more ideas.

Good luck, and feel free to contact us with any question👋

Home — Essay Samples — Life — Basketball — Basketball is My Favorite Sport

Basketball is My Favorite Sport

• Categories: Basketball Favorite Sport

About this sample

Words: 1245 |

Updated: 27 November, 2023

Words: 1245 | Pages: 3 | 7 min read

The essay discusses the author's passion for basketball and their personal journey with the sport. The author describes how they have been playing basketball since a young age and have grown attached to the game. They explain that basketball is a team sport with various positions, with the author playing as the point guard.

The essay reflects on the author's experience of joining a basketball team in the 7th grade, highlighting the excitement and the opportunity to make new friends. They express admiration for their favorite player on the team, emphasizing the shooter's exceptional skills.

The author emphasizes that basketball has had a positive impact on their life, providing confidence and a sense of purpose. They acknowledge the hard work and dedication required to excel in the sport, including rigorous practices and physical challenges.

The essay also mentions the author's favorite NBA team, the Golden State Warriors, and their admiration for player Steph Curry. They appreciate Curry's confidence and work ethic, aspiring to be like him in the future.

The essay concludes by underlining the importance of basketball in the author's life, from being a hobby to an obsession. It has helped them grow, gain confidence, and stay healthy. Basketball has also allowed them to meet new people and continue enjoying the sport with friends and family.

You may also be interested Conclusion Paragraph Generator

Video Version

Hook Examples for Basketball Essay

• The Sound of Sneakers: Step onto the hardwood and listen closely to the rhythmic echoes of squeaking sneakers. The court comes alive, and so does the spirit of the game.
• From Dr. Naismith to the NBA: Trace the captivating journey of basketball from its humble beginnings in a Springfield gym to becoming a global phenomenon that showcases the incredible talent of athletes worldwide.
• The Artistry of Slam Dunks: Explore the sheer beauty and athleticism of slam dunks, where players defy gravity and captivate fans with their awe-inspiring feats above the rim.
• Basketball: More Than a Sport: Uncover the deeper layers of basketball’s impact on society, from fostering teamwork and discipline to providing a source of inspiration and unity.
• Breaking Barriers: Women in Basketball: Shatter stereotypes and celebrate the remarkable achievements of female basketball players who have transcended gender boundaries, leaving an indelible mark on the sport.

Works Cited

• National Basketball Association. (n.d.). Official website. Retrieved from https://www.nba.com/
• NBA History. (n.d.). Basketball history. Retrieved from https://www.nba.com/history/
• Stankovic, M. (2006). Basketball encyclopedia: 100 years of the game. Overlook Press.
• Hemphill, D. (2019). Basketball: How it works. The Rosen Publishing Group.
• Meagher, T., & Aranda, C. (2018). Coaching basketball successfully. Human Kinetics.
• Oliver, D. (2012). Basketball on paper: Rules and tools for performance analysis. Potomac Books.
• McCallum, J. (2017). Golden days: West’s Lakers, Steph’s Warriors, and the California dreamers who reinvented basketball. Ballantine Books.
• Batchelor, B., & Harris, I. (2020). Basketball (and other things): A collection of questions asked, answered, illustrated. Abrams Image.
• Cooper, L. A. (2016). Basketball: Great writing about America’s game. Library of America.
• The Hoop Doctors. (n.d.). Basketball drills and skills development. Retrieved from https://thehoopdoctors.com/

Cite this Essay

To export a reference to this article please select a referencing style below:

Let us write you an essay from scratch

• 450+ experts on 30 subjects ready to help
• Custom essay delivered in as few as 3 hours

Get high-quality help

Dr Jacklynne

Verified writer

• Expert in: Life

+ 120 experts online

By clicking “Check Writers’ Offers”, you agree to our terms of service and privacy policy . We’ll occasionally send you promo and account related email

No need to pay just yet!

Related Essays

2 pages / 705 words

4 pages / 2025 words

1 pages / 625 words

2 pages / 1088 words

Remember! This is just a sample.

You can get your custom paper by one of our expert writers.

121 writers online

Still can’t find what you need?

Browse our vast selection of original essay samples, each expertly formatted and styled

Related Essays on Basketball

Bianchi, R., Mamo, C., Riva, D., & Rocca, F. (2016). Proprioceptive Training and Injury Prevention in a Professional Men's Basketball Team: A Six-Year Prospective Study. Journal of strength and conditioning research, 30(2), [...]

LeBron James is undeniably one of the greatest basketball players of all time. His impact on the sport and his numerous achievements have solidified his place in basketball history. In this essay, we will explore the remarkable [...]

There have been many great players who have left a lasting impact on the game. Two of the most iconic and influential figures in the sport are Kobe Bryant and LeBron James. Both players have achieved remarkable success and have [...]

The exhilaration of participating in sports often leaves indelible memories, shaping an individual's character and resilience. For many, the first encounter with a sport can be a transformative experience, imbued with a mixture [...]

Basketball, a beloved sport played and cherished by millions around the world, has a fascinating origin story that dates back to the late 19th century. The invention of basketball can be traced back to a cold, snowy day in [...]

The basketball court is a place I deeply value and appreciate. I literally call this place my second home. Whenever I need to relieve stress or just play for the fun of it, it does it for me. This place varies in looks but [...]

Related Topics

By clicking “Send”, you agree to our Terms of service and Privacy statement . We will occasionally send you account related emails.

Where do you want us to send this sample?

By clicking “Continue”, you agree to our terms of service and privacy policy.

Be careful. This essay is not unique

This essay was donated by a student and is likely to have been used and submitted before

Download this Sample

Free samples may contain mistakes and not unique parts

Sorry, we could not paraphrase this essay. Our professional writers can rewrite it and get you a unique paper.

Please check your inbox.

We can write you a custom essay that will follow your exact instructions and meet the deadlines. Let's fix your grades together!

Get Your Personalized Essay in 3 Hours or Less!

We use cookies to personalyze your web-site experience. By continuing we’ll assume you board with our cookie policy .

• Instructions Followed To The Letter
• Deadlines Met At Every Stage
• Unique And Plagiarism Free

• Writing Prompts

45 Basketball Writing Prompts That Will Dunk Your Writer’s Block

Are you a writer struggling to find inspiration ? Look no further! Our ultimate list of 45 basketball writing prompts will dunk your writer’s block and ignite your creative spark. Basketball is more than just a game; it’s a global phenomenon that fosters teamwork, discipline, and resilience. It’s a sport that brings people together, ignites passions, and creates unforgettable moments. Whether you’re a seasoned sports writer or a passionate basketball fan looking to start a blog, these prompts are designed to stimulate your imagination and keep your pen moving.

Using these prompts is simple. Each one is crafted to help you explore different facets of basketball, from personal experiences and historical moments to technical analyses and fictional stories. Start by selecting a prompt that resonates with you, then let your creativity take over. Whether you choose to write about the thrill of a game-winning shot, the impact of legendary players, or the evolution of basketball shoes, these prompts will guide you in crafting engaging and insightful pieces. Get ready to elevate your writing game and explore the world of basketball from fresh and exciting angles.

45 Basketball Writing Prompts

Ready to elevate your writing game? Here are 45 basketball writing prompts that will inspire and energize your creative process:

• Describe your favourite basketball memory and how it shaped your love for the game. What emotions did you experience during that moment?
• Write about a time when your team won a game against all odds. How did the victory impact your team’s dynamics?
• Imagine being a basketball coach for a day. What strategies would you implement and why?
• Describe the feeling of making a game-winning shot. How did your teammates react?
• Write about your favourite basketball player and what makes them stand out. How have they inspired you both on and off the court?
• Discuss the importance of teamwork in basketball. Provide an example of when great teamwork led to success.
• Write a fictional story about an underdog high school basketball team making it to the state championships. What challenges do they face along the way?
• Analyze the impact of a major rule change in basketball history. How did it affect the way the game is played?
• Describe a day in the life of an NBA player. What are the highs and lows they experience?
• Write about the role of a basketball cheerleader or mascot. How do they contribute to the overall game atmosphere?
• Discuss the evolution of basketball shoes and their cultural significance. How do they impact player performance?
• Describe a memorable rivalry in basketball history. What made it so intense and unforgettable?
• Write about the importance of mental toughness in basketball. Provide tips for developing this skill.
• Analyze the differences between college basketball and the NBA. Which do you prefer and why?
• Describe a time when you learned a valuable life lesson through basketball. How has it influenced you since?
• Write a profile of a lesser-known basketball player who made a significant impact on the game. What were their contributions?
• Discuss the role of women in basketball. How has the landscape changed over the years?
• Imagine you’re a sports journalist covering a major basketball event. What key points would you highlight in your article?
• Write about the best basketball advice you’ve ever received. Who gave it to you and how did it help?
• Describe the experience of attending a live basketball game. What makes it different from watching it on TV?
• Write a fictional story about a basketball player who overcomes a major injury to return to the game. What challenges do they face during their recovery?
• Discuss the importance of physical fitness and conditioning in basketball. What exercises are most effective?
• Write about a time when sportsmanship played a crucial role in a basketball game. How did it influence the outcome?
• Analyze the impact of social media on modern basketball. How do players and teams use it to their advantage?
• Describe the atmosphere of a high-stakes basketball tournament. How do players and fans prepare for such events?
• Write a story about a basketball coach who changes the lives of their players. What methods do they use to inspire and motivate?
• Discuss the role of technology in improving basketball performance. What advancements have been made in recent years?
• Describe the challenges faced by a basketball player transitioning from college to the NBA. How do they adapt to the new environment?
• Write about the significance of a basketball player’s jersey number. What stories or traditions are associated with it?
• Analyze the impact of a famous basketball game on popular culture. How did it influence music, fashion, or movies?
• Describe the process of developing a signature basketball move. What makes it effective and unique?
• Write a fictional story about a young basketball prodigy who must choose between pursuing a professional career or going to college. What factors influence their decision?
• Discuss the role of analytics in modern basketball. How do teams use data to improve their performance?
• Describe a memorable halftime show you’ve seen at a basketball game. What made it stand out?
• Write about the importance of leadership on a basketball team. Provide examples of great leaders in basketball history.
• Analyze the impact of a major basketball scandal on the sport. How did it change the perception of the game?
• Describe the excitement and pressure of participating in a basketball draft. What emotions do players experience during this time?
• Write about the influence of international players on the NBA. How have they changed the game?
• Discuss the importance of mentorship in basketball. Provide examples of successful mentor-mentee relationships.
• Describe the process of designing a new basketball arena. What features are essential for enhancing the fan experience?
• Write a story about a basketball player who uses their platform to advocate for social change. What causes do they support and why?
• Analyze the impact of a legendary coach on their team’s success. What coaching philosophies set them apart?
• Describe the role of pre-game rituals and superstitions in basketball. How do they affect player performance?
• Write about the evolution of basketball uniforms. How have they changed over the decades and what trends are popular today?
• Discuss the importance of community outreach programs led by basketball teams. How do these initiatives make a difference in local communities?

You might also enjoy the following resources:

• 56 Golf Writing Prompts
• 35 Football Writing Prompts
• 32 Baseball writing prompts
• 32+ Olympic writing prompts

In conclusion, these 45 basketball writing prompts are your ultimate tool to overcome writer’s block and dive deep into the dynamic world of basketball. Whether you’re writing about personal experiences, legendary moments, or exploring the sport’s cultural impact, these prompts are designed to spark your creativity and keep you inspired. We hope you find them as exciting and motivating as we do. Don’t forget to share your favourite prompts or any unique stories you create in the comments below—we’d love to hear how basketball inspires you!

Marty the wizard is the master of Imagine Forest. When he's not reading a ton of books or writing some of his own tales, he loves to be surrounded by the magical creatures that live in Imagine Forest. While living in his tree house he has devoted his time to helping children around the world with their writing skills and creativity.

Related Posts

Comments loading...

Basketball - Essay Examples And Topic Ideas For Free

Basketball is a widely popular sport involving two teams of five players each, striving to shoot a ball through the opponent’s hoop to score points. Essays on basketball could delve into its history, the influence it has on communities, the lessons it teaches in teamwork and perseverance, or even the economic aspects concerning professional leagues. The topic also lends itself to discussions about notable players, their contributions to social issues off the court, and how the sport acts as a unifying factor across different cultures and communities. A vast selection of complimentary essay illustrations pertaining to Basketball you can find in Papersowl database. You can use our samples for inspiration to write your own essay, research paper, or just to explore a new topic for yourself.

Basketball is my Passion

I’ve been thinking a lot about the idea of passion. What does passion mean? What can It help create for your future? Why do some people enjoy this passion, but others don’t? Those questions are what people think when choosing a passion. “The stands are packed, the crowds cheering. Sweats roll onto the floor. The air is thin, and the hardwood floor is cold. Your team is down by 2 in the 4th quarter with 4 seconds left. Your coach […]

Basketball Positions

Introduction Bit of History In 1891 a teacher, at a YMCA in Springfield, Massechussets, named James Naismith was tasked to create an indoor sport to keep students active during the winter seasons. Once Naismith came up with his game, he divided his class into two teams with 9 students each (because his class had 18 students). He created his game to be as non-violent as possible unlike rugby and american football. However, he wanted it to be something that his […]

Baseball – National Pastime

Baseball was a sport, developed in the late 1800's, and early 1900's. Baseball is known as the National Pastime. ""The game of baseball evolved along with the United States, for games similar to the modern sport had been played in America since colonial times. In the mid-nineteenth century, New York businessman began forming baseball clubs and establishing the rules of the game"". Alexander Cartwright is the one who first created the rules. The field was shaped like a diamond, and […]

We will write an essay sample crafted to your needs.

Assignment Ex-Basketball Player

John Updike was a supremely influential American writer during the latter half of the twentieth century. Widely known for his works on religion, sex, and most saliently, the middle class (Britannica); which hearkens to the theme expressed in his poem titled “Ex-Basketball Player.” Updike describes the life of Flick Webb, a man who used to be praised in his hometown because of his success as a former high school basketball player but ended up working at a gas station within […]

Basketball Diaries

Identify the risk factors for Jim. Please sure to provide the specific individual, family, school/peer and community risk factors. (3 points) There are a number of risk factors for Jim, played by Leonardo DiCaprio and the most apparent of them all, is the environment that he lives in. First of all, Jim lacks a male role model as he is an only child and raised by his single mother. Due to this, Jim hardly has any parental control and can virtually […]

Michael Jordan – Greatest Superstar

Many people have heard of Michael Jordan, he is known to be one of basketball's greatest superstars. Even those who don't follow professional basketball still know who he is. Lots of basketball players made an impact on the lives of others. One of the most famous players is Michael Jordan. His legacy and many great accomplishments will be remembered forever. Michael was born on February 17, 1963 in Brooklyn, New York. He was the third son in a family of […]

Exploring the Mathematics of a 3-points Shot in Basketball 

Since the age of 7 when I had my first encounter with the sport of basketball, it has been my passion ever since. Having my feet stamped on the wooden floor, the stinging sensation of leather in my palms and the net above my head, I have been devoting the past ten years for the “splashing” sound of the ball when it hits the basket. It was abnormal, yet satisfying. I was enthralled by how Stephen Curry just instinctively hit […]

Eddie Griffin’s Path to Modern Basketball

Eddie Griffin married at age 16, he married Carla Griffin. He joined the MN Timber Wolves in 2004-2007. When Eddie made it to the NBA, his half-brother died of a heart attack shortly after he made it to the NBA, his half-brother died of a heart attack shortly after he made it to the NBA. Also, Eddie was forced not to finish his senior year in high school because he got in a physical fight with his classmate. Eddie Griffin […]

Success is Achieved by Hard Work not Just Talent

  Success is the ending stage of what you have been building. As an athlete the footsteps to success are paved by the hard work of an individual. The determination, sweat, failure, and hustle define them as an athlete. In addition, athletes who practice their craft, stay after practice, go to the gym, tend to succeed in more ways than one. As it may be hard to comprehend, Michael Jordan, an nba basketball star, was cut from his high school […]

Basketball – Leading the Team to Glory

In the book “Sacred Hoops” by Phil Jackson and Hugh Delehanty, it talks about different forms of leadership from working as a team to developing new strategies that no other coach would have done. First, I will give a basic summary about the book. Next, the paper will transition into two main topics: the use of innovation and teamwork. Finally, I will conclude the paper by critiquing Phil Jackson’s style of leadership and wrap up the essay by recalling his […]

Syracuse Basketball

There are a variety of sports that I enjoy watching. A few favorites are Snowboarding, College Basketball, and Soccer. The sport that grabs my attention most is College Basketball. Growing up in Central New York, the hometown team to root for was Syracuse Basketball. Syracuse Basketball has become a ritual for most. It does not matter who the person is, or where the person comes from. The minute a person steps foot inside the Carrier Dome, everyone shares the same […]

Lebron James Biography

Basketball has always been a fan favorite sport. Places around the world have different players, teams, and coaches. Every team has a star player and a great coach. Lebron James has been America's favorite basketball player since high school. Everyone knew who he was and how he plays basketball, basketball fans are all amazed by how great he does each game. Everyone loves Lebron because he's a great athlete and he's just a great person overall.(Abbey,2010) Lebron grew up without […]

Duke Basketball

Duke basketball has a lot of impact in men's college basketball. This is because of Mike Krzyzewski. He is the Duke men's head coach. This man has had an impact on Duke men's basketball by coaching the NCAA Championships they won. He also was there to coach the 10 Sweet 16's. This man and his staff have made great athletes into strong men. He and his staff have helped the university in many ways.Coach Mike Krzyzewski is the head coach […]

What is Basketball?

Basketball is a game that requires both physical traits and mentality traits in order to be successful at the game. Physically you need to be in shape to be able to run up and down the court and shoot the ball over and over again when your body is screaming at you to stop because its tired. It requires the mental part because you have to push pass that road block and continue to push through the pain and the […]

My Favourite Sport is Basketball

The luminescent glow of the glossy wood floor resting under my feet, bearing upon it the dreams of many who stood over it. The long days spent on it that turned into long nights. The grind and passion it brings that connect the people who choose to walk on it together. The sweat, blood, and tears that fall on it, creating history with each drop. Ball in my hands, one minute and 47 seconds left on the clock, game tied […]

Why People Love to Play Basketball?

Have you ever wondered why people shoot a basketball different and do better? Well you will learn why people have different shooting positions in the game of basketball. You will also learn other interesting things about basketball. Such as who invented basketball, the different positions of the people in the game of basketball, and why do people not shoot one hundred percent. To find the answer to these questions you will have to keep reading to find out. Basketball is […]

The LeBron James Skills

Some people call LeBron James the GOAT for his great skill on the court. Others say it's his work in the community that really makes him the greatest of all time. Lebron James had many things that contributed to him having an astonishing year. On July 1st, 2018, he agreed to a four-year, $154-million contract with Los Angeles Lakers. He was named 2018 All-Star MVP after his team won the 2018 NBA All-Star Game in Los Angeles on Sunday night. […]

The Basketball Seasons

The school year had just began as usual at this time of the year. The leafs were starting to change colors, the end of summer was just a memory. Everyone was just starting to get into the habit of having to wake up early. The kids that played any type of sports activity there main concern was the season. All she can think of sitting in math class on this windy day was a quote her 5th grade teacher once […]

Michael Jordan – Best Basketball Player of all Time

Who is the best basketball player of all time? Well one reason he might be is he scored 69 points in one game. I will tell you about his childhood, and about how he got to be the best. Also his greatest accomplishments. Michael Jordan was born in Brooklyn, New York, But later moved to North Carolina. He has two older brothers, an older sister and a younger sister. He played football, basketball, and baseball. He was 5 foot 9 […]

Wheelchair Basketball Game while Disabled

Megan Blunk is 24 years old and she is from Gig Harbor, Washington. She plays wheelchair basketball, she is in the wheelchair due to an accident that happened in her past. This particular accident is what led her to get into wheelchair basketball and become a Paralympic Athlete. Up until 2008, Megan played many sports, such as, soccer, fastpitch, track, volleyball, and basketball. Megan was involved in a motorcycle accident and left her paralyzed and it caused her to have […]

CORRELATION of TEAM EFFICIENCY to WINS in BASKETBALL

Introduction Throughout the years, Basketball has advanced from a classic to an increasingly modernized game. For instance, things changed from perimeter two-point shooting to long-distance 3-point shooting; from straightforward layups to very much well-played alley loops and creative dunking. Basketball is popular to the point that pretty much every nation in Asia, Europe, and the USA plays the game.  Most individuals realize how to play the game. I have seen individuals playing inside and outside so often, yet it is […]

The Story of LeBron James how he Became a Star

“He dribbles up and makes an amazing move to get past the first defender! If Lebron James makes these two points, they will win the world championship! He keeps dribbling and BAM! He slams down the ball and scores the final two winning points! Lebron James is the All-Star MVP once again!”Inner City Poverty   Lebron James is a very rich and famous person, but it wasn’t this way 30 years ago. Lebron was born in 1984. very poor family. Lebron […]

The NCAA Basketball

Imagine being the star actor or actress of an award winning production, obtaining the world wide spotlight, and making millions of dollars. You spend around 40 hours per week preparing for a show that imports millions of dollars to the owner of the show, producers, employees, and you. Everyone gets paid extremely well, especially you, who is the main reason why the show, movie, or production is so successful. Wouldn’t you feel like you fit in, contributed to the success, […]

The Effects of Self-Talk on a Basketball Player’s Performance 

Two different professional basketball players step up to the free-throw line in a tied game with a few seconds left during the fourth quarter. The anxiety caused by the context of the situation stimulates the nervous system; therefore, the brain must be able to process the stimulation and allow these players to evaluate the situation. Athlete one, who consulted with a sports psychologist, was able to handle the pressure and help their team win the game. Athlete two, who did […]

The Basketball Calculator

A jock filled world of basketball players who make million dollars off nothing they learned from a classroom may ironically be evolved by the classroom. It has longed been known that a players past success rate when shooting a basketball can be measured in percentages. However, the use of math to predict the future success of bank shots is an untapped market that may show enough promise to reshape the preparation of a pro basketball player in the future. This […]

Physiological and Nutritional Factors Affecting the Results of Basketball Players

Abstract These studies included relevant information on physiological responses such as adenosine triphosphate, phosphocreatine (PCr), and anaerobic glycolysis which all three are included in the anaerobic pathway (Glaister, 2005). Moreover, with respect to physiological responses, heart rate and lactate threshold were also referred in this review as essential variables for basketball performance (Godwin et al., 2007; Paul and Garg, 2012). On the other hand, there are also nutritional demands for the human body and most specifically for the basketball players […]

Who has been a more Impactful Player on and off the Court Michael Jordan or LeBron James

Who has been a more impactful player on and off the court, Michael Jordan or LeBron James?Sports has become an activity that brings many different people from all over the world together. It is a way to bond, enjoy company with each other, and cheer on specific teams in the sport. The NBA is one of the most popular sport leagues due to the increase in views of basketball games. With 30 teams, the NBA offers fans to choose their […]

Blue Devil Basketball Offensive Philosophy

The Blue Devil Offensive Philosophy is that our best offense is our defense. Players will use strong defense to create primary break opportunities. The EHS basketball program places great importance upon getting the ball into the front court with great urgency. By pushing the ball up the court, we force the defense into numerical disadvantages which can create easy scoring opportunities for our athletes. The emphasis is placed on getting the ball in the paint in order to create scoring […]

Technology in Modern Basketball

With basketball getting more and more popular, more people regret basketball as their favorite sport. But basketball has gone through a long period. The system and the level of coach had changed a lot. This made basketball have more different than nowadays. Today I want to introduce some obvious difference between modern basketball and traditional basketball. Firstly, game style had changed a lot, in the past, the players are more expected to shoot mid-range shoot. And different kinds of mid-range […]

College and African American Male: Basketball Athletes

As a freshman in college, I acknowledge and recognize the fact that college can be a challenging experience. The college experience can become even more challenging when you factor in sororities, clubs, fraternities, sports and other school activities. The article that I have decided to use for my analysis is, “College and the African American Male Athlete by Stephen Brown.” Stephen Brown’s main source comes from the book Closing the Education Achievement Gaps for African American Males by Theodore S. […]

Related topic

Additional example essays.

• The Rise of Baseball
• Informative Essay About Soccer
• Benefits of Swimming
• Racism in Movie "42"
• Babe Ruth's Effect on the 1920s
• Track And Field History
• Leadership and the Army Profession
• Why College Should Not Be Free
• Shakespeare's Hamlet Character Analysis
• A Raisin in the Sun Theme
• Followership and Servant Leadership
• How the Roles of Women and Men Were Portrayed in "A Doll's House"

1. Tell Us Your Requirements

2. Pick your perfect writer

3. Get Your Paper and Pay

Hi! I'm Amy, your personal assistant!

Don't know where to start? Give me your paper requirements and I connect you to an academic expert.

short deadlines

100% Plagiarism-Free

Certified writers

193 Sports Persuasive Essay Topics [with Tips & Examples]

For many of us, physical activity is an essential part of life. From morning yoga to professional soccer, it helps us stay fit and healthy. Besides, it’s a source of entertainment that can relax us and calm us down.

Writing or talking about sports can be as enjoyable as doing or playing them. Are you passionate about some game or event? Do you have a favorite player? Have you ever participated in a championship? Watched the Olympic games? All these aspects can be explored in a paper, and a good sports persuasive essay topic will help you with that.

Whether you need a subject for public speaking or you are writing a persuasive text, you will find the right idea here. Our professional writers prepared gathered sports persuasive speech topics and essay ideas. So, check out our list to find something you can convince your audience of.

• ✍️ How to Start?
• ⭐ Stellar Sports Topics
• ❄️ Winter Sports
• ☀️ Summer Sports
• 🏈 American Football
• 🏀 Basketball
• 🏋 Olympics Topics
• 🏆 NBA Topics
• 🏃 NFL Topics
• 🏒 NHL Topics
• 🤸 Exercises Topics

🍏 Fitness Topics

• 💃 Dance Topics
• 📝 Writing about Sports

✍️ How to Start a Sports Persuasive Essay?

You may be familiar with the term “hook” concerning the essay writing. If not, well, it’s a catchy sentence or two at the beginning of the paper. It’s supposed to intrigue the reader and grab their attention so that they follow your train of thought.

The writer places a hook before the thesis statement of their paper. This way, the reader will be more focused on the core message.

Let’s be real:

Not everyone is interested in sports. Or not in the particular game that you center your paper around. So, in the persuasive essay on sports, a catchy hook is essential. You need an attention grabber to make anyone engaged. Plus, it helps to get a clear understanding of your thesis later. You can check out some college essay examples to better understand what we’re talking about.

So, how can you intrigue from the start?

There are several popular hooks for sports-related essays:

• Quotations . A quotation is an engaging way to introduce your reader to the topic. Make sure the quote is relevant to the rest of the essay. “You have to expect things of yourself before you can do them.” – Michael Jordan
• Fun Facts . Use some fun or unexpected info about sports to surprise a reader. It can be a great attention-grabber, especially if a reader is not knowledgeable on the subject. A record 202 countries participated in the 2004 Olympic Summer Games in Athens.
• Personal Experience. Using personal experience in a hook is smart in several ways. First, it gives the reader a sense of the author’s presence. Second, it provides information in an engaging, conversational style. I couldn’t stand the idea of working out when I was younger.
• Anecdotes . Similar to personal experience, anecdotes are entertaining stories. They can be based on a real narrative or be entirely made-up. Your task is to make them humorous. Do you know Jim Thorpe’s response when he received the gold medal for the Decathlon? When the King of Sweden said that Thorpe was the greatest athlete in the world, he said, “Thanks, King.”
• Rhetorical Questions . Rhetorical questions don’t require an answer. They either state the obvious or encourage one’s thinking. Use them in a hook to immerse the reader into the subject. If LeBron James ends up taking the Cleveland Cavaliers to the playoffs now, and Carmelo Anthony can’t take the Denver Nuggets to the playoffs, what do you think that does to the Rookie of the Year voting?
• Useful Definition . Starting the first paragraph with a definition sets the tone for your essay. It is an informative, specific lead to your topic. Deck work is the mood-setting moves performed on the deck once the music starts before the swimmers enter the water.
• Controversial statement . There are usually two sides to any controversy. Your reader will either agree or disagree with a given statement but will stay invested. The U.S. men’s soccer team won’t win a World Cup in the foreseeable future.

⭐ 12 Best Sports Persuasive Speech Topics

• College Basketball.
• Sports Psychology.
• Ticket Prices.
• American Football.
• Student-Athletes.
• Soccer Championships.
• Sports Education.
• Controversial Matches.
• 2022 Olympics.
• Cheerleading.
• Youth Sports.

🍂 Persuasive Essay Topics: Seasonal Sports

Some sports activities differ from one time of the year to another. Here is a list of good persuasive essay topics about seasonal sports:

❄️ Winter Sports Persuasive Essay Topics

• The launch of The Winter Dew Tour has greatly Improved Snowboarding Culture in the US .
• Recent Climate Change Trends pose a significant threat to the winter sports industry.
• Cross Country Skiing is the least dangerous of all winter sports.
• Figure skating judges are biased .
• Violence in hockey is often encouraged by fans.
• Ski jumping is better than snowboarding.
• North Korea stole the show during Pyongyang winter Olympics.
• The Winter sports apparel market will keep growing regardless of the global crisis.
• Fake snow should not be used for winter sports.
• Bobsleigh is not a serious sport.

☀️ Summer Sports Persuasive Essay Topics

• Golf is a rich man’s favorite sport.
• Horse showing is underrated in the US .
• Boxing is better than MMA. Are boxers better athletes than MMA fighters?
• More American Universities should invest in organizing summer sports camps.
• It’s time to cancel the NBA summer league.
• Gymnastics is the most aesthetically pleasing sport.
• Wimbledon is not as prestigious anymore.
• Skateboarding should not be a part of the Olympics.
• Alcohol consumption should be prohibited during the Tour de France.
• Martial arts are practiced only for defense purposes .
• Nike is the best producer of golf equipment .
• Badminton is harder to play than tennis.
• Lacrosse and field hockey are the same sport.
• Swimming should be a mandatory skill for everyone.
• Surfing is the most difficult of all water sports.

🏏 Sports Persuasive Essay Topics: Games

Games can be one of the most exciting things about sports. Take a look at the persuasive essay topics about team sports:

🏈 American Football Persuasive Essay Topics

• Football is too dangerous for its players . Concussions and other brain injuries are common in American football.
• American football philosophy is inseparable from American identity .
• American football is more profitable than baseball .
• Companies should stop placing ads on the player’s uniform. Elaborate on the distracting factor. Can it lead to more injuries among the players?
• College athletes who play American football should get a better insurance plan.

• The Canadian football league is more fun to watch than the NFL.
• Rugby is harder to play than American football.
• College football players should get higher scholarships.
• More awareness should be raised about racist team names in football.
• The football helmet is an essential part of the equipment.
• Of all contact team sports, American football is the most dangerous .
• There should be an age limit for young kids to start playing football.
• The tradition of American football has created a tightly-bound community.
• American football cultivates unnecessary violence and aggression.
• American football conveys a wrong image of masculinity.

⚽ Soccer Persuasive Essay Topics

• FIFA World Cup is the most profitable yet corrupt soccer event in the world . Should its policies be reconsidered?
• FIFA’s primary mission is to promote peace and intercultural communication .
• Soccer World Cup is not well adjusted for the international crowd.
• Women’s soccer gets fewer media coverage than men’s soccer.
• Virtual reality is soccer training that can replace conventional training methods.
• The World Cup events bring severe damage to the countries that host them.
• Soccer drills are the most effective training strategy.
• Different techniques for kicking a soccer ball are a critical element of the game.
• Despite all the risks, soccer is the best investment in the sports industry .
• Soccer has become an integral part of Saudi culture .
• The World Cup bidding system is too corrupt.

• Girls soccer teams should be allowed to compete with boys soccer teams.
• Karl Henning is a better businessman than a soccer player.
• Soccer coaching ethics should be stricter.
• Soccer is the most popular team sport of the century .

🏀 Basketball Persuasive Essay Topics

• UCR’s Women’s Basketball uses inefficient marketing strategies .
• We should reconsider the age range for basketball game players.
• There should be a female version of the Big East conference.
• Racial prejudices are a prominent issue in basketball.
• College basketball players should get paid for each game.
• Michael Jordan and LeBron James should not be compared.
• Basketball is the least traumatic team sport.
• Schools should encourage and support girls’ basketball teams more.
• Basketball is a more exciting game than soccer.
• Height is not a decisive factor in basketball.
• There is a link between basketball and hip-hop.
• The use of Native American imagery for basketball mascots is offensive.
• Basketball is a more American game than football.
• Basketball used to be more accessible.
• Basketball games in movies are not realistic.

⚾ Baseball Persuasive Essay Topics

• Baseball is more profitable than football.
• Baseball games should incorporate instant replays.
• Major League Baseball should carry out tests on steroid use among players .
• MLB should invest more in seeking out young talents .
• Pitchers play the most influential role in baseball.
• Princeton University Youth Baseball and Softball Association is a great initiative.
• Baseball is more interesting to watch than cricket.
• Data collection methods in MLB are not objective .
• The rules in baseball are too complicated for spectators to follow.

• Baseball used to be more exciting as a game.
• International players in baseball teams attract new audiences.
• American Legion Baseball coaches should get higher salaries.
• MLB should have a set salary cap.
• Baseball salary caps are, in fact, a bad idea.
• Houston Astros players should’ve been penalized after the sign-stealing scandal.

🥇 Professional Sports Persuasive Essay Topics

We honor a variety of sports on different large-scale events. Here are persuasive essay topics about professional sports:

🏋 Olympics Persuasive Essay Topics

• Ancient Greek Olympics held more sense and symbolism compared to the modern Olympics.
• Skill and greatness shouldn’t be ultimately measured by the number of gold medals.
• The Summer Olympics are more entertaining than the Winter Olympics.
• We should abolish the Olympic games . Explain that they cause severe economic and social issues. Elaborate on the harm to the environment due to the games.
• The Olympics are great at promoting values of peace and international communication.
• The Olympic games bring more damage than benefits to a hosting country.
• Medicine dealing is the most problematic aspect of the Olympics.
• Jesse Owens is the greatest athlete in Olympics history.
• The Olympics ticketing system will significantly benefit from IT development .
• The Olympics Committee should reconsider the use of anabolic steroids.
• Money spent on the Olympics could serve better causes .
• Special Olympics should get more media coverage.
• The Summer Olympics list should include cricket.
• We shouldn’t ban blood doping during the Olympics.
• Tokyo 2020 Olympics should be postponed until 2022.

🏆 NBA Persuasive Essay Topics

• If not his multiple injuries Ralph Sampson could’ve become the player of the century.
• The WNBA is underrated compared to the NBA . Why do female players have significantly smaller salaries than male players?
• The NBA has one of the most loyal fan bases of all.

• The NBA All-Star games are more entertaining than Super Bowl events.
• The NBA age limit is too small.
• Investing in an NBA team is too risky .
• The NBA draft does not provide equal chances for all teams.
• Joel Embiid owes part of his success to Kobe Bryant.
• Is NBA the most successful of North America’s sports leagues?
• Charlotte Hornet’s value rose because Michael Jordan bought it.
• Toronto Raptors and Milwaukee Bucks are equally good teams.
• The rivalry between Cleveland Cavaliers and Golden State Warriors developed after the 2015 NBA Finals.
• The NBA’s dress code should be reconsidered.
• The NBA 2011 lockout has significantly worsened the owners-players relationship .
• Michael Jordan is overrated.

🏃 NFL Persuasive Essay Topics

• Super Bowl uses an extremely efficient marketing strategy .
• The NFL concussion rules are too disruptive for the game.
• Tony Romo is the best player in Dallas Cowboys.
• The NFL is more profitable than MLB.
• NFL’s Michael Vick case . Explain that the legal justice system does not treat celebrities equally as other individuals. Provide more examples from real life to support your arguments.
• Does NFL cultivate violence and aggression?
• NFL UK will be able to compete with the original NFL in the foreseeable future.
• The NFL should pay more attention to head injuries.
• Dak Prescott is the best quarterback.

• Is Tua Tagovaiola overrated? He went straight from Alabama football team to Miami Dolphins. That’s when Tagovailoa started as a promising quarterback. But what happened after?
• We should end the NFL Preseason tradition as it’s unnecessary.
• Chicago Bears is the most successful NFL team.
• New Orleans Saints was a revolutionary team for the NFL.
• Antonio Brown should be able to return to playing in NFL regardless of his criminal record.
• The NFL is the best football association in the world, and here’s why.

🏒 NHL Persuasive Essay Topics

• The NHL is not doing enough to control violence during the game.
• Fighting should be banned as it can result in player’s life-long injuries.
• Edmonton Oilers’ Connor Mcdavid is the best NHL player.
• Canadians are better at playing hockey than Americans.
• The NFL should consider reducing contract length.
• Florida Panthers have a long way to go to become a good team.
• Gary Bettman is the worst NHL commissioner.
• Tickets for the NHL winter classic games should be less expensive.
• Victor Hedman is the all-time best defenseman in Tampa Bay Lightning.
• Regardless of their efforts, referees are always the scapegoats on ice.
• The NHL All-Star games are more exciting than the NBA ones.

🚴 Physical Activities Persuasive Essay Topics

Sport is not always about competing. For many of us, it is a way to stay active and get that good old endorphin rush.

🤸 Persuasive Essay Topics on Exercises

• Daily exercise ensures better mental and physical health . Seems obvious, right? Give this sports persuasive essay topic a scientific twist by describing its impacts on physiology.
• The gym is the best place for physical activity .
• Yoga is the best practice for stress-management .
• Children should not be assessed for their physical training at school.
• All children should have a certain level of physical activity a week.
• Companies should let their employees exercise during work hours .
• Everyone should know how to play at least one sport.
• Personal trainers can improve your exercise routine significantly.
• CrossFit is not the healthiest way to exercise .
• Swimming is one of the healthiest workouts.

• At-home workouts are as efficient as gym workouts.
• Exercise rehabilitation is essential for injury recovery.
• Physically active children have more chances to grow into dynamic adults.
• Physical exercise can battle depression.
• Proper stretching activities are essential to prevent injuries.
• Obesity and weight loss are some of the most burning issues in the US .
• Vegetarianism can damage health . Discuss the controversy of vegetarianism as a lifestyle concept.
• Fitness obsession is not that harmful.
• Poor sleeping pattern is one of the most health-damaging factors.
• All restrictive diets are bad for human’s health.
• Health and wellness programs have a positive impact on employees’ performance .
• Excessive salt consumption is hugely harmful.
• It is a myth that gluten can negatively affect one’s health.
• Schools should take better care of children’s nutrition plan.
• Food supplements can’t replace actual vitamin intake.
• Most people who are trying to lose weight approach dieting in the wrong way.
• Nutrition is more important than physical exercise.
• Healthy food should be more affordable.
• Social media plays a crucial role in promoting a healthy lifestyle.
• Diet pills can put your life in danger.

💃 Dance Persuasive Essay Topics

• Dance is more of a sport than an art.
• Zumba is a better workout than pilates and aerobics.
• Hip-hop will never become outdated.
• Ballet schools require one of the most intense physical training.
• Dancing provides physical and mental relaxation .
• Learning how to dance is one of the less obvious confidence boosters.
• Capoeira is an underrated martial art .
• Should dance be included in major sports events like the Olympics?
• The right amount of training can make a good dancer out of anyone.
• Dancing can be as good of a workout as any other sport.

📝 Writing a Persuasive Essay about Sports

Now that you’ve seen the topics let’s talk about writing. Persuasive essays differ from the other academic papers in both the goal and structure. You have to keep in mind that you’re composing not for yourself but for the reader. That’s why you have to present your arguments logically and coherently.

Here are some tips on writing a killer persuasive essay about sports:

• Choose a topic that you can handle. Don’t try to compose a paper on the game that you know nothing about. It’s too tiring and time-consuming. Remember that it takes months for a fan to learn everything about their favorite sport. If you don’t have such years-long passion, focus on the more straightforward aspects of your topic.
• Research beforehand . Even if you’re a sports fan, and especially if you’re not. There are plenty of rules and scandals that you need to consider to sound convincing. Look up some fun facts or entertaining stories. Sports topics usually give you plenty of material to play around with.
• Take notes. The more notes you take while researching, the less work you’ll have to do after. And you won’t have to reread the materials to find that one sports event that you’ve forgotten about. The industry is quite vibrant with exceptional cases. Make sure you keep track of all the information that might be useful.
• Pick the issues to discuss according to the evidence . If you can’t support an argument with enough credible proof, don’t include it in your essay. Both argumentative and persuasive essays require you to stay on top of your argumentation.
• Outline and draft your paper before writing the final version. When you’re writing on recent events, you may get new information at any moment. So, draft before composing. In case you decide to include some new evidence or improve an argument, it won’t be messy. Outlining will help to organize your thoughts comprehensively and concisely.

Thank you for your attention. Share this sport related persuasive essay article with a friend. And don’t be shy to convince everyone your opinion is the right one!

• Good Topics for an Argumentative Essay on Sports: Tasos Vossos, Pen and the Pad
• Essay Structure: Elizabeth Abrams, for the Writing Center at Harvard University
• Writing the Introduction: Monash University
• The Basics of Essay Writing: UNSW Current Students
• English II Persuasive Essay [10th grade]: Brianna Johnson, Trinity University
• Write an Attention-Grabbing Opening Sentence for an Essay: Grace Fleming, ThoughtCo
• Online Guide to Writing and Research — UMGC
• Taking Notes from Research Reading: Margaret Procter, Writing Support, University of Toronto
• Basic Guide to Essay Writing: Kathy Livingston
• Share via Facebook
• Share via X
• Share via LinkedIn
• Share via email

By clicking "Post Comment" you agree to IvyPanda’s Privacy Policy and Terms and Conditions . Your posts, along with your name, can be seen by all users.

I read all your articles, I like it a lot I learned a lot about the game. Thank you so much for sharing such a beautiful article with us.

Glad you liked it. Thanks for the feedback!

IvyPanda uses cookies and similar technologies to enhance your experience, enabling functionalities such as:

• Basic site functions
• Ensuring secure, safe transactions
• Secure account login
• Remembering account, browser, and regional preferences
• Remembering privacy and security settings
• Analyzing site traffic and usage
• Personalized search, content, and recommendations
• Displaying relevant, targeted ads on and off IvyPanda

Please refer to IvyPanda's Cookies Policy and Privacy Policy for detailed information.

Certain technologies we use are essential for critical functions such as security and site integrity, account authentication, security and privacy preferences, internal site usage and maintenance data, and ensuring the site operates correctly for browsing and transactions.

Cookies and similar technologies are used to enhance your experience by:

• Remembering general and regional preferences
• Personalizing content, search, recommendations, and offers

Some functions, such as personalized recommendations, account preferences, or localization, may not work correctly without these technologies. For more details, please refer to IvyPanda's Cookies Policy .

To enable personalized advertising (such as interest-based ads), we may share your data with our marketing and advertising partners using cookies and other technologies. These partners may have their own information collected about you. Turning off the personalized advertising setting won't stop you from seeing IvyPanda ads, but it may make the ads you see less relevant or more repetitive.

Personalized advertising may be considered a "sale" or "sharing" of the information under California and other state privacy laws, and you may have the right to opt out. Turning off personalized advertising allows you to exercise your right to opt out. Learn more in IvyPanda's Cookies Policy and Privacy Policy .

What are your chances of acceptance?

Calculate for all schools, your chance of acceptance.

Your chancing factors

Extracurriculars.

How to Write a Non-Cliche College Essay About Sports + Examples

What’s covered:, what makes a sports essay cliche.

• How To Make Your Sports Essay Unique

Great Examples of College Essays About Sports

Where to get your college essay edited for free, or by an expert.

You’ve been brainstorming essay topics for your college applications, and you think you’ve finally found the right one: an extended metaphor likening your experience on the field with overcoming personal struggles. The problem: many other students have this same thought. 

The purpose of a college essay is to make yourself stand out as a unique individual, but when students write about sports, they often blend in. Because of that, students are usually advised to pick a different topic.

That being said, it is possible to write a non-cliche college essay about sports if you put in a little extra effort. Read along to learn how to make your sports essay different from all the other sports essays.

Sports essays are cliche when they follow a standard trajectory. Some of these trajectories include writing a story about:

• An agonizing defeat
• Forging bonds with teammates
• Overcoming adversity
• Overcoming an injury
• Refusing to quit
• Victory during a big game

Because sports essays have very similar themes and “lessons learned,” it can be difficult to make your story stand out. These trajectories also often focus too much on the sport or storyline, and not enough on the writer’s reflections and personality.

As you write your essay, try to think about what your experience says about you rather than what you learned from your experience. You are more than just one lesson you learned!

(Keep in mind that the sports essay is not the only college essay cliche. Learn about other essay cliches and how to fix them in our complete guide).

How to Make Your Sports Essay Unique

1. focus on a specific moment or reflection..

The college essay is a way for students to humanize themselves to admissions officers. You do not feel human if you are describing yourself as just another player on the field!

One important way to make your essay about you (not just about sports) is by focusing on a specific moment in time and inviting the reader to join you in that moment. Explain to the reader what it would be like to be sitting in that locker room as you questioned the values of the other players on your team. Ask your reader to sit with you on the cot in the trainer’s room as your identity was stripped away from you when they said “your body can’t take this anymore.” Bring your reader to the dinner table and involve them in your family’s conversation about how sports were affecting your mental health and your treatment of those around you.

Intense descriptions of a specific experience will evoke emotions in your reader and allow them to connect with you and feel for you.

When in doubt, avoid anything that can be covered by ESPN. On ESPN, we see the games, we see the benches, we even see the locker rooms and training rooms. Take your reader somewhere different and show them something unique.

2. Use sports to point out broader themes in your life.

The main risk when writing about sports is neglecting to write about yourself. Before you get started, think about the main values that you want to express in your sports essay. Sports are simply your avenue for telling the reader what makes you unique. 

As a test, imagine if you were a pianist. Would you be able to talk about these same values? What if you were a writer? Or a chemist? Articulating your values is the end, and sports should simply be your means.

Some values that you might want to focus on:

• Autonomy (you want to be able to set your mind to anything and achieve it on your own)
• Growth (you seek improvement constantly)
• Curiosity (you are willing to try anything once)
• Vulnerability (you aren’t afraid to fail, as long as you give it your all)
• Community (you value the feedback of others and need camaraderie to succeed)
• Craft (you think that with deliberate care, anything can be perfected)
• Responsibility (you believe that you owe something to those around you and perhaps they also owe something to you)

You can use the ESPN check again to make sure that you are using sports as an avenue to show your depth.

Things ESPN covers: how a player reacts to defeat, how injuries affect a player’s gameplay/attitude, how players who don’t normally work well together are working together on their new team.

Things ESPN doesn’t cover: the conversation that a player had with their mother about fear of death before going into a big surgery (value: family and connection), the ways that the intense pressure to succeed consumed a player to the point they couldn’t be there for the people in their life (value: supporting others and community), the body image issues that weigh on a player’s mind when playing their sport and how they overcame those (value: health and growth).

3. Turn a cliche storyline on its head.

There’s no getting around the fact that sports essays are often cliche. But there is a way to confront the cliche head-on. For example, lots of people write essays about the lessons they learned from an injury, victory, and so on, but fewer students explain how they are embracing those lessons. 

Perhaps you learned that competition is overwhelming for you and you prefer teamwork, so you switched from playing basketball to playing Dungeons & Dragons. Maybe, when your softball career ended abruptly, you had to find a new identity and that’s when you became obsessed with your flower garden and decided to pursue botany. Or maybe, you have stuck with football through it all, but your junior-year mental health struggle showed you that football should be fun and you have since started a nonprofit for local children to healthily engage with sports.

If your story itself is more cliche, try bringing readers to the present moment with you and show why the cliche matters and what it did for you. This requires a fair amount of creativity. Ensure you’re not parroting a frequently used topic by really thinking deeply to find your own unique spin.

Night had robbed the academy of its daytime colors, yet there was comfort in the dim lights that cast shadows of our advances against the bare studio walls. Silhouettes of roundhouse kicks, spin crescent kicks, uppercuts and the occasional butterfly kick danced while we sparred. She approached me, eyes narrowed with the trace of a smirk challenging me. “Ready spar!” Her arm began an upward trajectory targeting my shoulder, a common first move. I sidestepped — only to almost collide with another flying fist. Pivoting my right foot, I snapped my left leg, aiming my heel at her midsection. The center judge raised one finger. 

There was no time to celebrate, not in the traditional sense at least. Master Pollard gave a brief command greeted with a unanimous “Yes, sir” and the thud of 20 hands dropping-down-and-giving-him-30, while the “winners” celebrated their victory with laps as usual. 

Three years ago, seven-thirty in the evening meant I was a warrior. It meant standing up straighter, pushing a little harder, “Yes, sir” and “Yes, ma’am”, celebrating birthdays by breaking boards, never pointing your toes, and familiarity. Three years later, seven-thirty in the morning meant I was nervous. 

The room is uncomfortably large. The sprung floor soaks up the checkerboard of sunlight piercing through the colonial windows. The mirrored walls further illuminate the studio and I feel the light scrutinizing my sorry attempts at a pas de bourrée, while capturing the organic fluidity of the dancers around me. “Chassé en croix, grand battement, pique, pirouette.” I follow the graceful limbs of the woman in front of me, her legs floating ribbons, as she executes what seems to be a perfect ronds de jambes. Each movement remains a negotiation. With admirable patience, Ms. Tan casts me a sympathetic glance.   

There is no time to wallow in the misery that is my right foot. Taekwondo calls for dorsiflexion; pointed toes are synonymous with broken toes. My thoughts drag me into a flashback of the usual response to this painful mistake: “You might as well grab a tutu and head to the ballet studio next door.” Well, here I am Master Pollard, unfortunately still following your orders to never point my toes, but no longer feeling the satisfaction that comes with being a third degree black belt with 5 years of experience quite literally under her belt. It’s like being a white belt again — just in a leotard and ballet slippers. 

But the appetite for new beginnings that brought me here doesn’t falter. It is only reinforced by the classical rendition of “Dancing Queen” that floods the room and the ghost of familiarity that reassures me that this new beginning does not and will not erase the past. After years spent at the top, it’s hard to start over. But surrendering what you are only leads you to what you may become. In Taekwondo, we started each class reciting the tenets: honor, courtesy, integrity, perseverance, self-control, courage, humility, and knowledge, and I have never felt that I embodied those traits more so than when I started ballet. 

The thing about change is that it eventually stops making things so different. After nine different schools, four different countries, three different continents, fluency in Tamil, Norwegian, and English, there are more blurred lines than there are clear fragments. My life has not been a tactfully executed, gold medal-worthy Taekwondo form with each movement defined, nor has it been a series of frappés performed by a prima ballerina with each extension identical and precise, but thankfully it has been like the dynamics of a spinning back kick, fluid, and like my chances of landing a pirouette, unpredictable. 

Why it works:

What’s especially powerful about this essay is that the author uses detailed imagery to convey a picture of what they’re experiencing, so much so that the reader is along for the ride. This works as a sports essay not only because of the language and sensory details, but also because the writer focuses on a specific moment in time, while at the same time exploring why Taekwondo is such an important part of their life.

After the emotional image is created, the student finishes their essay with valuable reflection. With the reflection, they show admissions officers that they are mature and self-aware. Self-awareness comes through with statements like “surrendering what you are only leads you to what you may become” and maturity can be seen through the student’s discussion of values “honor, courtesy, integrity, perseverance, self-control, courage, humility, and knowledge, and I have never felt that I embodied those traits more so than when I started ballet.” These are the kinds of comments that should find their way into a sports essay!

“Advanced females ages 13 to 14 please proceed to staging with your coaches at this time.” Skittering around the room, eyes wide and pleading, I frantically explained my situation to nearby coaches. The seconds ticked away in my head; every polite refusal increased my desperation.

Despair weighed me down. I sank to my knees as a stream of competitors, coaches, and officials flowed around me. My dojang had no coach, and the tournament rules prohibited me from competing without one.

Although I wanted to remain strong, doubts began to cloud my mind. I could not help wondering: what was the point of perfecting my skills if I would never even compete? The other members of my team, who had found coaches minutes earlier, attempted to comfort me, but I barely heard their words. They couldn’t understand my despair at being left on the outside, and I never wanted them to understand.

Since my first lesson 12 years ago, the members of my dojang have become family. I have watched them grow up, finding my own happiness in theirs. Together, we have honed our kicks, blocks, and strikes. We have pushed one another to aim higher and become better martial artists. Although my dojang had searched for a reliable coach for years, we had not found one. When we attended competitions in the past, my teammates and I had always gotten lucky and found a sympathetic coach. Now, I knew this practice was unsustainable. It would devastate me to see the other members of my dojang in my situation, unable to compete and losing hope as a result. My dojang needed a coach, and I decided it was up to me to find one. 

I first approached the adults in the dojang – both instructors and members’ parents. However, these attempts only reacquainted me with polite refusals. Everyone I asked told me they couldn’t devote multiple weekends per year to competitions. I soon realized that I would have become the coach myself.

At first, the inner workings of tournaments were a mystery to me. To prepare myself for success as a coach, I spent the next year as an official and took coaching classes on the side. I learned everything from motivational strategies to technical, behind-the-scenes components of Taekwondo competitions. Though I emerged with new knowledge and confidence in my capabilities, others did not share this faith.

Parents threw me disbelieving looks when they learned that their children’s coach was only a child herself. My self-confidence was my armor, deflecting their surly glances. Every armor is penetrable, however, and as the relentless barrage of doubts pounded my resilience, it began to wear down. I grew unsure of my own abilities.

Despite the attack, I refused to give up. When I saw the shining eyes of the youngest students preparing for their first competition, I knew I couldn’t let them down. To quit would be to set them up to be barred from competing like I was. The knowledge that I could solve my dojang’s longtime problem motivated me to overcome my apprehension.

Now that my dojang flourishes at competitions, the attacks on me have weakened, but not ended. I may never win the approval of every parent; at times, I am still tormented by doubts, but I find solace in the fact that members of my dojang now only worry about competing to the best of their abilities.

Now, as I arrive at a tournament with my students, I close my eyes and remember the past. I visualize the frantic search for a coach and the chaos amongst my teammates as we compete with one another to find coaches before the staging calls for our respective divisions. I open my eyes to the exact opposite scene. Lacking a coach hurt my ability to compete, but I am proud to know that no member of my dojang will have to face that problem again.

In the beginning, you might think this is another cliche sports essay about overcoming adversity. But instead, it becomes a unique statement and coming-of-age tale that reads as a suspenseful narrative. 

The author connects their experience with martial arts to larger themes in their life but manages to do so without riffing off of tried-and-true themes. Through statements like “I knew I couldn’t let them down. To quit would be to set them up to be barred from competing like I was” we learn about the students values and their desire to be there for those who depend on them. 

The student also brings it full circle, demonstrating their true transformation. By using the “Same, but Different” ending technique , the student places themself in the same environment that we saw in the intro, but experiences it differently due to their actions throughout the narrative. This is very compelling!

“1…2…3…4 pirouettes! New record!” My friends cheered as I landed my turns. Pleased with my progress, I gazed down at my worn-out pointe shoes. The sweltering blisters, numbing ice-baths, and draining late-night practices did not seem so bad after all. Next goal: five turns.

For as long as I can remember, ballet, in all its finesse and glamor, had kept me driven day to day. As a child, the lithe ballerinas, donning ethereal costumes as they floated across the stage, were my motivation. While others admired Messi and Adele, I idolized Carlos Acosta, principal dancer of the Royal Ballet. 

As I devoted more time and energy towards my craft, I became obsessed with improving my technique. I would stretch for hours after class, forcing my leg one inch higher in an effort to mirror the Dance Magazine cover girls. I injured my feet and ruined pair after pair of pointe shoes, turning on wood, cement, and even grass to improve my balance as I spun. At competitions, the dancers with the 180-degree leg extensions, endless turns, and soaring leaps—the ones who received “Bravos!” from the roaring audience—further pushed me to refine my skills and perfect my form. I believed that, with enough determination, I would one day attain their level of perfection. Reaching the quadruple-pirouette milestone only intensified my desire to accomplish even more. 

My efforts seemed to have come to fruition two summers ago when I was accepted to dance with Moscow’s Bolshoi Ballet at their renowned New York City summer intensive. I walked into my first session eager to learn from distinguished ballet masters and worldly dancers, already anticipating my improvement. Yet, as I danced alongside the accomplished ballerinas, I felt out of place. Despite their clean technique and professional training, they did not aim for glorious leg extensions or prodigious leaps. When they performed their turn combinations, most of them only executed two turns as I attempted four. 

“Dancers, double-pirouettes only.” 

Taken aback and confused, I wondered why our teacher expected so little from us. The other ballerinas seemed content, gracing the studio with their simple movements. 

As I grew closer with my Moscow roommates, I gradually learned that their training emphasized the history of the art form instead of stylistic tricks. Rather than show off their physical ability, their performances aimed to convey a story, one that embodied the rich culture of ballet and captured both the legacy of the dancers before them and their own artistry. As I observed my friends more intently in repertoire class, I felt the pain of the grief-stricken white swan from Swan Lake, the sass of the flirtatious Kitri from Don Quijote, and I gradually saw what I had overlooked before. My definition of talent had been molded by crowd-pleasing elements—whirring pirouettes, gravity-defying leaps, and mind-blowing leg extensions. This mindset slowly stripped me from the roots of my passion and my personal connection with ballet. 

With the Bolshoi, I learned to step back and explore the meaning behind each step and the people behind the scenes. Ballet carries history in its movements, from the societal values of the era to each choreographer’s unique flair. As I uncovered the messages behind each pirouette, kick, and jump, my appreciation for ballet grew beyond my obsession with raw athleticism and developed into a love for the art form’s emotive abilities in bridging the dancers with the audience. My journey as an artist has allowed me to see how technical execution is only the means to a greater understanding between dancer and spectator, between storyteller and listener. The elegance and complexity of ballet does not revolve around astonishing stunts but rather the evocative strength and artistry manifested in the dancer, in me. It is the combination of sentiments, history, tradition, and passion that has allowed ballet and its lessons of human connection to become my lifestyle both on and off stage.

This essay is about lessons. While the author is a dancer, this narrative isn’t really about ballet, per se — it’s about the author’s personal growth. It is purposefully reflective as the student shows a nice character arc that begins with an eager young ballerina and ends with a reflection on their past. The primary strength of this essay is the honesty and authenticity that the student approaches it with.

In the end, the student turns a cliche on its head as they embrace the idea of overcoming adversity and demonstrate how the adversity, in this case, was their own stereotypes about their art. It’s beautiful!

“Getting beat is one thing – it’s part of competing – but I want no part in losing.” Coach Rob Stark’s motto never fails to remind me of his encouragement on early-morning bus rides to track meets around the state. I’ve always appreciated the phrase, but an experience last June helped me understand its more profound, universal meaning.

Stark, as we affectionately call him, has coached track at my high school for 25 years. His care, dedication, and emphasis on developing good character has left an enduring impact on me and hundreds of other students. Not only did he help me discover my talent and love for running, but he also taught me the importance of commitment and discipline and to approach every endeavor with the passion and intensity that I bring to running. When I learned a neighboring high school had dedicated their track to a longtime coach, I felt that Stark deserved similar honors.

Our school district’s board of education indicated they would only dedicate our track to Stark if I could demonstrate that he was extraordinary. I took charge and mobilized my teammates to distribute petitions, reach out to alumni, and compile statistics on the many team and individual champions Stark had coached over the years. We received astounding support, collecting almost 3,000 signatures and pages of endorsements from across the community. With help from my teammates, I presented this evidence to the board.

They didn’t bite. 

Most members argued that dedicating the track was a low priority. Knowing that we had to act quickly to convince them of its importance, I called a team meeting where we drafted a rebuttal for the next board meeting. To my surprise, they chose me to deliver it. I was far from the best public speaker in the group, and I felt nervous about going before the unsympathetic board again. However, at that second meeting, I discovered that I enjoy articulating and arguing for something that I’m passionate about.

Public speaking resembles a cross country race. Walking to the starting line, you have to trust your training and quell your last minute doubts. When the gun fires, you can’t think too hard about anything; your performance has to be instinctual, natural, even relaxed. At the next board meeting, the podium was my starting line. As I walked up to it, familiar butterflies fluttered in my stomach. Instead of the track stretching out in front of me, I faced the vast audience of teachers, board members, and my teammates. I felt my adrenaline build, and reassured myself: I’ve put in the work, my argument is powerful and sound. As the board president told me to introduce myself, I heard, “runners set” in the back of my mind. She finished speaking, and Bang! The brief silence was the gunshot for me to begin. 

The next few minutes blurred together, but when the dust settled, I knew from the board members’ expressions and the audience’s thunderous approval that I had run quite a race. Unfortunately, it wasn’t enough; the board voted down our proposal. I was disappointed, but proud of myself, my team, and our collaboration off the track. We stood up for a cause we believed in, and I overcame my worries about being a leader. Although I discovered that changing the status quo through an elected body can be a painstakingly difficult process and requires perseverance, I learned that I enjoy the challenges this effort offers. Last month, one of the school board members joked that I had become a “regular” – I now often show up to meetings to advocate for a variety of causes, including better environmental practices in cafeterias and safer equipment for athletes.

Just as Stark taught me, I worked passionately to achieve my goal. I may have been beaten when I appealed to the board, but I certainly didn’t lose, and that would have made Stark proud.

This essay uses the idea of sports to explore a more profound topic—growing through relationships. They really embrace using sports as an avenue to tell the reader about a specific experience that changed the way they approach the world. 

The emphasis on relationships is why this essay works well and doesn’t fall into a cliche. The narrator grows not because of their experience with track but because of their relationship with their coach, who inspired them to evolve and become a leader.

Have a draft of your college essay? We’re here to help you polish it. Students can participate in a free Peer Review, or they can sign up for a paid review by CollegeVine’s experts. Sign up for your free CollegeVine account today to start improving your essay and your chances of acceptance!

Related CollegeVine Blog Posts

Essay on Basketball

Students are often asked to write an essay on Basketball in their schools and colleges. And if you’re also looking for the same, we have created 100-word, 250-word, and 500-word essays on the topic.

Let’s take a look…

100 Words Essay on Basketball

Introduction to basketball.

Basketball is a popular sport enjoyed worldwide. It was invented by Dr. James Naismith in 1891. The game is played between two teams, each aiming to score by shooting a ball into the opponent’s hoop.

Rules of the Game

Each team consists of five players. The game begins with a jump ball. The team that scores the most points by shooting the ball through the hoop wins. There are rules against holding the ball and making physical contact.

Skills in Basketball

Basketball requires skills like dribbling, passing, and shooting. It also demands physical fitness, teamwork, and strategic thinking. Players need to be quick, agile, and coordinated.

Why We Love Basketball

Basketball is thrilling and dynamic. It encourages teamwork and promotes physical fitness. It’s not just a game, but a way of life for many, teaching valuable lessons about cooperation, discipline, and hard work.

250 Words Essay on Basketball

Introduction.

Basketball, a globally acclaimed sport, is a dynamic game that combines physical prowess with strategic thinking. The sport is not only about scoring points but also about the integration of teamwork, discipline, and perseverance.

The Essence of the Game

The beauty of basketball lies in its simplicity and the profound skills it demands. From shooting, dribbling, passing to defending, each aspect of the game requires a unique set of skills, making it a comprehensive physical activity. Moreover, the constant movement across the court boosts cardiovascular health and promotes physical fitness.

Teamwork and Strategy

Basketball is a team sport, and its essence lies in the harmony of the team. Each player’s role is crucial, but the collective effort determines the outcome. The game fosters a sense of unity and camaraderie, as players must strategize and communicate effectively to outscore their opponents.

Life Skills through Basketball

Beyond the court, basketball teaches invaluable life skills. It instills discipline, as players must adhere to rules and respect officials’ decisions. The game also encourages resilience; players must rebound from setbacks and maintain a competitive spirit, mirroring life’s ups and downs.

Basketball, therefore, is more than a game. It is a blend of physicality, strategy, and life lessons. Its global popularity is a testament to its capacity to entertain, educate, and inspire, making it a quintessential sport in today’s world.

500 Words Essay on Basketball

Basketball, a sport that has captivated millions across the globe, is a dynamic game that demands both physical prowess and mental agility. Invented by Dr. James Naismith in 1891, it has evolved from a simple indoor game into an international spectacle, played in arenas filled with thousands of fans and broadcast worldwide.

At its core, basketball is a game of strategy and skill. Each team, consisting of five players, aims to score by shooting the ball through the opponent’s hoop while preventing the opposing team from doing the same. The game is played in quarters, each lasting 12 minutes in professional leagues and slightly less in amateur games. The team with the most points at the end of the game wins.

Physical and Mental Demands

Basketball demands a high level of physical fitness. Players require strength, endurance, agility, and hand-eye coordination to excel. Yet, the game is not purely physical. It also requires strategic thinking, teamwork, and the ability to make quick decisions under pressure. Players must constantly adapt to the changing dynamics of the game, making split-second decisions that can mean the difference between victory and defeat.

The Impact of Basketball

Basketball’s impact extends beyond the court. It has become a powerful social and cultural force. The sport has been a platform for athletes to influence societal issues and inspire younger generations. From Michael Jordan’s global brand influence to LeBron James’s activism, basketball players have leveraged their fame for greater causes.

Technological Influence on Basketball

In conclusion, basketball is more than just a sport. It is a test of physical and mental fortitude, a platform for social change, and a barometer of technological advancements. As the game continues to evolve, it will undoubtedly continue to captivate and inspire, embodying the spirit of competition and the joy of teamwork.

That’s it! I hope the essay helped you.

Happy studying!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

• BASKETBALL CHAMPIONS LEAGUE
• FIBA EUROPE CUP
• DOMESTIC LEAGUES
• YOUTH BASKETBALL
• WOMEN’S BASKETBALL
• Signings & Rumours

How to Write an Essay About Basketball

Basketball is a fun and exciting sport that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. If you are writing an essay about basketball, there are a few things that you will want to keep in mind. First and foremost, you should ensure that your essay is well-organized and flows well. Second, make certain that you provide a lot of information on the sport itself. Finally, make sure that you end your essay in a way that leaves your reader wanting more.

A university student who is uninterested in basketball would first search for a trusted and safe site where they can buy college essays online. However, if you look at it from the perspective that you can always learn something new and find people who can inspire you, it’s worth doing it yourself.

Picking a good topic

A hook for an essay should be something engaging and specific about the topic of the essay. So, in order to create a compelling hook, you should first choose what you’re writing about. Are you talking about basketball strategy? Making a case for who the greatest player of all time is? While both topics are about basketball, you would create a very different hook for each. 

Once you have a general idea of what you want to write about, it’s time to start narrowing down your topic. Try to choose a specific angle to write from, as this will make your essay more focused and easier to write.

Sample inspiration ideas

Sometimes all you need is a spark of inspiration to get started on creating raw thoughts. The following writing prompts can help you consider the sport from several angles and bring you to an excellent topic.

• How basketball came to be invented.
• How the game’s rules were created.
• How a basketball team selects its players.
• What exercises may a person do to hone their skills? What is the difference between a sport and a game? 
• What is meant by the term full court? 
• What is a shot? 
• What is a rebound? 
• What is a tip? 

Understanding these terms will help you write an essay about basketball that is accurate and meaningful.

Writing the essay

Basketball is a widely popular sport with many passionate fans. Writing an essay about it should be an enjoyable assignment for you because it allows you to express your passion for the sport to others. Here are some pointers to help you write a fantastic basketball essay:

Do your research

Before you start writing, it’s important to do your research. This will help you to understand the game of basketball, as well as give you some interesting points to include in your essay.

Structure your essay 

Once you’ve done your research, it’s time to start writing. Don’t write the whole essay at once; instead, break the task into smaller parts. You can also use outlines and headings to organize your essay.

Talk about history

When you’re writing an essay about basketball, it’s important to talk about the sport’s historical details. These include things like when and where the sport was invented, as well as who were the key players or innovators.

Analyze current trends

Analyzing current trends helps you to understand the sport’s current status. Are there any new techniques or strategies that you want to incorporate into your writing?

Communicate clearly

When you’re writing an essay about basketball, it’s important to focus on the message you’re trying to communicate. This includes identifying exactly what you want to say, as well as how and where this information should be published.

Present your ideas

Finally, present your ideas — this is where you’ll most likely be asked to write about your own experience with the sport or with one particular strategy. If you’re asked to write about yourself, be sure to be true to your own experience (and don’t quote anyone else!).

Analyzing the sport

If you are writing about basketball, you must provide the regulations of the game . 

“Basketball is a team sport in which five players attempt to score by shooting the ball through a hoop. The basketball hoop is 10 feet above the ground, allowing players to shoot from there. Accuracy in shooting helps your team score high in the game. The two teams compete on a rectangular court that allows for ball dribbling and passing. A player’s dribbles and passes should be aimed at moving closer to the opponent’s hoop.” 

“A team feels joyful and enthused about the game when they score on the opposing team’s hoop. The team with the highest score at the end of the game wins the game. The team score in the contest is determined by successful throws into the baskets. A team should strive to outperform its opponents by scoring more points in the basket. For a pleasant playing experience, a person needs to comprehend basketball fouls and violations.” 

Such descriptions educate even the most inexperienced players about the game in general.

Key points to remember when writing an essay about basketball

Some key points to remember when writing an essay about basketball include:

• Basketball is a sport that is enjoyed by people of all ages.
• Basketball is a fast-paced and exciting sport.
• Basketball can be played both indoors and outdoors.
• Basketball is a team sport that requires cooperation and teamwork. 

Strategies for writing a successful essay 

Here are some strategies for writing an effective essay not just one about basketball.: 

1. Brainstorm ideas and choose a topic. 

2. Do your research and plan your essay. 

3. Write a draft of your essay. 

4. Edit and revise your essay. 

5. Proofread your essay. 

Common mistakes 

Some common mistakes that students make when writing an essay about basketball include: not proofreading their work, not providing enough supporting evidence, and not staying on topic. 

Tips for making sure that your essay flows smoothly

Some tips for ensuring your essay about basketball is well-organized and flows smoothly include:

• Outline your essay before you begin writing it. This will help you to organize your thoughts and ensure that your essay flows smoothly from one point to the next.
• Make sure that each paragraph in your essay supports and elaborates on the main point of your essay.
• Use transition words and phrases between paragraphs to help connect your ideas and create a flowing, cohesive essay.
• Edit and proofread your essay carefully before you submit it to make sure that there are no errors or typos. 

Ideas for ways to conclude your essay about basketball

Some ideas for ways to conclude your essay about basketball include:

• summarizing the main points of your essay
• discussing the importance of basketball in the society
• explaining how basketball can teach important life lessons
• providing an inspiring message about basketball
• emphasizing the importance of teamwork in basketball
• sharing your own personal experience with basketball 

Writing an essay about basketball will show you how to be a good student and how to work as a team. Whether you are playing the role of team player or individual, you will learn to be productive and creative in the classroom.

Writing an essay on basketball can be easy if you have a good topic and some good ideas. Just remember to introduce your topic, elaborate on your points, and wrap up your essay.

STAY CONNECTED

Klay Thompson: “I know we can do something special” with Mavericks

Warriors dream of adding players like LeBron James, Giannis Antetokounmpo

TJ Ford: LeBron James’ global impact matches Michael Jordan’s

Spain’s Unicaja crowned FIBA Intercontinental Cup champions in Singapore

Marc Stein suggests Denver’s media day will be highly intriguing

In the news this week.

Despite anti-white racism, Caitlin Clark set numerous WNBA rookie records

Kings promote Jay Triano to associate head coach

Zach LaVine returns to Bulls amid trade rumors

Cedi Osman turned down Lakers offer before joining Panathinaikos

Christian Braun admires Westbrook’s tough, aggressive playing style

73 Essay Hook Examples

Chris Drew (PhD)

Dr. Chris Drew is the founder of the Helpful Professor. He holds a PhD in education and has published over 20 articles in scholarly journals. He is the former editor of the Journal of Learning Development in Higher Education. [Image Descriptor: Photo of Chris]

Learn about our Editorial Process

An essay hook is the first one or two sentences of your essay that are used to grab the reader’s attention and draw them into your discussion.

It is called a hook because it “grabs” the reader and doesn’t let them go! It should have something in there that makes the reader feel curious and intrigued, compelling them to continue reading.

Techniques for Good Essay Hooks

Here are a few techniques that you can use to write a good essay hook:

• Use a Quotation : Sometimes, a relevant quotation from a well-known author or expert can help establish the context or theme of your essay. Next time you’re conducting research for an essay, keep an eye out for a really compelling quote that you could use as your hook for that essay.
• Start with a Statement that is Surprising or Unusual: A surprising or unusually statement will draw a reader in, making them want to know more about that topic. It’s good if the statement contradicts common knowledge or reveals an insight about your topic that isn’t immediately obvious. These can be particularly good for argumentative essays where you’re putting forward a controversial or compelling argument as your thesis statement .
• Tell a Brief Anecdote : A short, interesting story related to your topic can personaize the story, making it more than just a dry essay, and turning it into a compelling narrative that’s worth reading.
• Use Statistics or Facts: Interesting, surprising, or shocking facts or statistics work similarly to surprising statements: they make us want to know more about a topic. Statistics and facts in your introductions are particularly useful for analytical, expository , and argumentative essays.
• Start with a Question: Questions that make the reader think deeply about an issue, or pose a question that the reader themselves has considered, can be really effecitve. But remember, questions tend to be better for informal and personal essays, and are generally not allowed in formal argumentative essays. If you’re not sure if you’re allowed to use questions in your essays, check with your teacher first.

Below, I’ll present some examples of hooks that you could use as inspiration when writing your own essay hook.

Essay Hook Examples

These examples might help stimulate your thinking. However, keep in mind that your essay hook needs to be unique to your essay, so use these as inspiration but write your own essay hook that’s perfect for your own essay.

1. For an Essay About Yourself

An essay about yourself can be personal, use “I” statements, and include memories or thoughts that are deeply personal to you.

• Question: “Have you ever met someone who could turn even the most mundane events into a thrilling adventure? Let me introduce myself.”
• Anecdote: “The smell of freshly baked cookies always takes me back to the day when I accidentally started a baking business at the age of nine.”
• Intriguing Statement: “I’ve always believed that you haven’t truly lived until you’ve read a book upside down, danced in the rain, or taught a parrot to say ‘I love pizza.'”
• Quotation: “As Mark Twain once said, ‘The secret of getting ahead is getting started.’ That’s a philosophy I’ve embraced in every aspect of my life.”
• Humorous Statement: “I’m a self-proclaimed ‘professional chocolate tester’ – a title that’s not only delicious but also requires extreme dedication.”
• Start with your Mission Statement : “My life motto is simple but powerful: be the person who decided to go for it.
• Fact or Statistic: “According to a study, people who speak more than one language tend to be better at multitasking . As a polyglot, I certainly live up to that statistic.”
• Comparison or Metaphor: “If my life were a book, it would be a blend of an adventurous novel, a suspense thriller, and a pinch of romantic comedy.”
• Personal Revelation: “Ever since I was a child, I’ve had an uncanny ability to communicate with animals. It’s an unusual skill, but one that has shaped my life in many ways.”
• Narrative: “The day everything changed for me was an ordinary Tuesday. Little did I know, a single conversation would lead me to discover my true passion.”

2. For a Reflective Essay

A reflective essay often explores personal experiences, feelings, and thoughts. So, your hooks for reflective essays can usually be more personal, intriguing, and engaging than other types of essays. Here are some examples for inspiration:

• Question: “Have you ever felt as though a single moment could change your entire life? This essay is going to explore that moment for me.”
• Anecdote: “I was standing on the edge of the Grand Canyon, looking at the vast emptiness, and for the first time, I truly understood the word ‘perspective’.”
• Bold Statement: “There is a part of me that is still trapped in that room, on that rainy afternoon, holding the letter that would change everything.”
• Personal Revelation: “The first time I truly felt a sense of belonging wasn’t in a crowded room full of friends, but in the quiet solitude of a forest.”
• Intriguing Statement: “In my life, silence has been a teacher more profound than any words could ever be.”
• Quotation: “Einstein once said, ‘The only source of knowledge is experience.’ Now, looking back, I realize how profound that statement truly is.”
• Comparison or Metaphor: “If my life is a tapestry, then that summer was the vibrant thread that changed the entire pattern.”
• Narrative: “As the train pulled out of the station, I realized I wasn’t just leaving my hometown, I was leaving my old self behind.”
• Philosophical Statement: “In the theater of life, we are both the actor and the audience, playing our part and watching ourselves simultaneously.”
• Emotive Statement: “There is a sort of sweet sorrow in remembering, a joy tinged with a hint of sadness, like the last notes of a beautiful song.”

For an Argumentative Essay

Essay hooks for argumentative essays are often the hardest. This type of essay tends to require the most formal type of academic writing, meaning your hook shouldn’t use first person, and should be more based on fact and objectivity, often at the expense of creativity. Here are some examples.

• Quotation: “Thomas Jefferson once said, ‘Whenever the people are well-informed, they can be trusted with their own government.’ If Jefferson were alive today, he would likely feel that this meed for a well-informed citizenry is falling well short of where he would aspire.”
• Provocative Statement: “Despite what romantic films may portray, love at first sight is merely a myth perpetuated by society. This essay will prosecute the argument that love at first sight is a myth.”
• Statistical Fact: “According to the World Health Organization, depression is the leading psychological disability worldwide. Yet, mental health is still stigmatized and often overlooked. This essay will argue that depression should be seen as a health issue, and stigmatization of depression causes serious harm to society.”
• Comparison: “Much like an unchecked infection, climate change, if left ignored, can spread far beyond what it is today, causing long-term economic and social problems that may even threaten the longevity of humanity itself.”
• Contradiction : “While we live in an era of unprecedented technological advancements, millions around the world are still denied basic internet access.”
• Bold Declaration: “Animal testing is not only ethically unacceptable, but it also undermines the progress of medical research.”
• Challenging Belief: “Despite popular belief, the automation of jobs is not a threat but an opportunity for society to evolve.”
• Quotation: “George Orwell wrote in ‘1984’, ‘Big Brother is Watching You.’ In our modern society, with the advancement of technology, this is becoming more of a reality than fiction.”
• Intriguing Statement: “Despite countless diet fads and fitness trends, obesity rates continue to rise. This argumentative essay will argue that this is because medical practitioners’ approaches to health and weight loss are fundamentally flawed.”
• Statistical Fact: “Research reveals that over 90% of the world’s plastic waste is not recycled. This alarming figure calls for a drastic change in social attitudes towards consumption and waste management.”
• Challenging Assumption: “Society often assumes that progress and growth are intrinsically good, but this is not always the case in the realm of economic development.”
• Contradiction: “Western society upholds the value of freedom, yet every day, members of society cede personal liberties in the name of convenience and security.”
• Analogy: “Like an overplayed song, when a news story is repeated too often, it loses its impact. In the era of digital media, society is becoming desensitized to critical issues.”
• Relevant Anecdote: “In a village in India, the arrival of a single computer transformed the lives of the residents. This small anecdote underscores the importance of digital inclusion in today’s world.”
• Call to Rethink: “In a world where success is often equated with financial wealth, it is time for society to reconsidered what truly constitutes a successful life.”

For a Compare and Contrast Essay

A compare and contrast essay examines two issues, looking at both the similarities and differences between them. A good hook for a compare and contrast essay will immediately signal to the reader the subjects that are being compared and why they’re being compared. Here are sine ideas for hooks for a compare and contrast essay:

• Quotation: “As Charles Dickens wrote in his novel ‘A Tale of Two Cities’, ‘It was the best of times, it was the worst of times’. This could equally apply to the contrasting dynamics of urban and rural living.”
• Provocative Statement: “Despite popular belief, cats and dogs have more in common than society tends to think.”
• Comparison: “Comparing being an only child to growing up with siblings is like contrasting a solo performance with an orchestral symphony.”
• Contradiction: “While many view classic literature and contemporary fiction as worlds apart, they are more akin to two sides of the same coin.”
• Bold Declaration: “Android and iPhone may compete in the same market, but their philosophies could not be more different.”
• Statistical Fact: “Statistics show that children who grow up reading books tend to perform better academically than those who do not. But, the jury is out on how reading traditional books compares to reading e-books on screens.”
• Quotation: “As Robert Louis Stevenson once wrote, ‘Sooner or later, we all sit down to a banquet of consequences.’ This statement can be used to frame a comparison between short-term and long-term thinking.”
• Provocative Statement: “Democracy and dictatorship are often seen as polar opposites, but are they are not as different as they seem.”
• Comparison: “Climate change and plastic pollution are two major environmental issues, yet they demand different approaches and solutions.”
• Contradiction: “While traditional classrooms and online learning are seen as separate modes of education, they can often blend into a cohesive learning experience.”
• Bold Declaration: “Though both based on merit, the structures of capitalism and socialism lead to vastly different societal outcomes.”
• Imagery: “The painting styles of Van Gogh and Monet can be contrasted as a stormy sea versus a tranquil pond.”
• Historical Reference: “The philosophies of the Cold War-era – capitalism and communism – provide a lens to contrast economic systems.”
• Literary Comparison: “The dystopian societies portrayed in George Orwell’s ‘1984’ and Aldous Huxley’s ‘Brave New World’ serve as contrasting visions of the future.”
• Philosophical Question : “Individualism and collectivism shape societies in distinct ways, but neither one can truly exist without the other.”

See Here for my Guide on Writing a Compare and Contrast Essay

For a Psychology Essay

Writing an engaging hook for a psychology essay involves sparking the reader’s interest in the human mind, behavior, or the specific psychology topic you’re discussing. Here are some stimulating hooks for a psychology essay:

• Rhetorical Question: “How much control do we truly have over our own actions?”
• Quotation: “Sigmund Freud once said, ‘Unexpressed emotions will never die. They are buried alive and will come forth later in uglier ways.’ This essay will explore whether this is universally true.”
• Provocative Statement: “Contrary to popular belief, ‘venting out’ anger might actually be fueling the fire of fury.”
• Comparison: “Just as an iceberg reveals only a fraction of its bulk above water, conscious minds may only be a small piece of who humans truly are.”
• Contradiction: “While it may seem counterintuitive, studies show that individuals who are more intelligent are also more likely to suffer from mental health issues.”
• Bold Declaration: “Despite advances in technology, understanding the human brain remains one of the final frontiers in science.”
• Statistical Fact: “According to a study by the American Psychological Association, nearly one in five adults in the U.S. lives with a mental illness. Yet, mental health continues to be a topic shrouded in stigma.”

For a Sociology Essay

Writing an engaging hook for a sociology essay involves sparking the reader’s interest in social behaviors, cultural phenomena, or the specific sociology topic you’re discussing. Here are ideas for hooks for a sociology essay:

• Quotation: “As Karl Marx once noted, ‘Social progress can be measured exactly by the social position of the fair sex.’ Sadly, society has not made much progress in gender equality.”
• Provocative Statement: “Social media, initially created to connect people, is ironically leading society into an era of unprecedented isolation.”
• Comparison: “Comparing society to a theater, where each individual plays a role, it is possible to start to see patterns and scripts embedded in daily interactions.”
• Contradiction: “While people often believe that technology is bringing society closer together, evidence suggests that it’s actually driving a wedge between people, creating ‘digital divides’.”
• Bold Declaration: “Human societies are constructed on deeply ingrained systems of inequality, often invisible to those benefiting from them.”
• Statistical Fact: “A recent study found that women still earn only 81 cents for every dollar earned by men. This stark wage gap raises questions about equality in the workforce.”

For a College Application Essay

A college essay is a personal statement where you can showcase who you are beyond your grades and resume. It’s your chance to tell your unique story. Here are ten potential hooks for a college essay:

• Anecdote: “At the age of seven, with a wooden spoon as my baton, I confidently conducted an orchestra of pots and pans in my grandmother’s kitchen.”
• Provocative Statement: “I believe that life is like a game of chess. The king might be the most important piece, but it’s the pawns that can change the entire course of the game.”
• Personal Revelation: “It wasn’t until I was lost in a foreign city, armed with nothing but a map in a language I didn’t understand, that I truly discovered my love for adventure.”
• Intriguing Question: “Have you ever wondered how it feels to be part of two completely different cultures, yet wholly belong to neither?”
• Bold Declaration: “Breaking a bone can be a painful experience. Breaking stereotypes, however, is an entirely different kind of challenge.”
• Unusual Fact: “I can recite the periodic table backwards while juggling three tennis balls. It’s a strange talent, but it’s a perfect metaphor for how I tackle challenges.”
• Quotation: “As Albert Einstein once said, ‘Imagination is more important than knowledge.’ This quote has defined my approach to learning.”
• Narrative: “It was a cold winter’s day when I first discovered the magic of turning a blank page into a world full of characters, stories, and ideas.”
• Metaphor: “Like a caterpillar transforming into a butterfly, my high school years have been a period of profound metamorphosis.”
• Humorous Statement: “Being the youngest of five siblings, I quickly learned that the best way to be heard was to become the family’s unofficial lawyer.”

Conclusion: The Qualities of a Good Essay Hook

As I wrap up this article, I want to share a few last tips on qualities that a good essay hook should have. Keep these tips in mind when writing your essay hook and using the above essay hook examples:

First, relevance . A good hook should be directly relevant to the topic or theme of your essay. The hook should provide a preview of what’s to come without giving too much away.

Second, Intrigue. A great hook should make the reader want to continue reading. It should create a question in the reader’s mind or present a fascinating idea that they want to know more about.

Third, uniqueness. An effective hook should be original and unique. It should stand out from the many other essays that the reader might be going through.

Fourth, clarity. Even though a hook should be captivating and original, it should also be clear and easy to understand. Avoid complex sentences and jargon that might confuse the reader.

Fifth, genre conventions. Too often, my students try to be so creative in their essay hooks that they forget genre conventions . The more formal an essay, the harder it is to write the hook. My general approach is to focus on statistics and facts, and avoid rhetorical questions , with more formal essay hooks.

Keep in mind that you should run your essay hook by your teacher by showing them your first draft before you submit your essay for grading. This will help you to make sure it follows genre conventions and is well-written.

• Chris Drew (PhD) https://helpfulprofessor.com/author/chris-drew-phd-2/ 10 Reasons you’re Perpetually Single
• Chris Drew (PhD) https://helpfulprofessor.com/author/chris-drew-phd-2/ 20 Montessori Toddler Bedrooms (Design Inspiration)
• Chris Drew (PhD) https://helpfulprofessor.com/author/chris-drew-phd-2/ 21 Montessori Homeschool Setups
• Chris Drew (PhD) https://helpfulprofessor.com/author/chris-drew-phd-2/ 101 Hidden Talents Examples

Leave a Comment Cancel Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Basketball Essay for Students and Children

500+ essay on basketball.

The game of basketball has truly become global in the last few years. The game is currently popular in the United States. Also, it is described by many as an American game because of the fun and competitive element in it. Also, this is one of the games which is played indoors and still caters to billions of fans around the world. This game was Dr. James Naismith from Canada. Initially, he invented the game by using a rectangular pitch which was 6 feet wide and 4 feet high. Additionally, the court includes a free throw line which is 12 feet long. In basketball essay, students will get to know about the different components that make the game of basketball special.

It is a team game that has gained immense popularity. Also, the game is played with the help of a ball and the ball is shot into the basket that is positioned horizontally. So, the objective in the game is to shoot the ball and score the maximum points. This game is played by 2 teams that constitute a total of 5 players each. Also, the game is played on a marked rectangular floor that has a basket on both the ends. 

Originally, basketball was played using a soccer ball. Also, it was James Naismith that used a peach basket which ha ad a nonhollow bottom. So, this basket was nailed at a height of 10 ft. above the ground and on an elevated track. If you consider the manual removal of the ball from the basket a drawback then the bottom was removed to and it took the shape of modern-day baskets. Also, dribbling was not part of the game initially. Eventually, it evolved till 1950 by which the balls got better shape due to manufacturing. 

Additionally, the orange ball was evolved from the brown ball. The brown ball was used in the beginning as it was thought that the ball is more visible. By 1996, the peach baskets used were replaced by metal hoops on the backboard. 

Get the huge list of more than 500 Essay Topics and Ideas

Basketball Game 

At the start of the game, a referee tosses the ball at the center of the court between two players. One player from either team try to get their hands on the ball and the ball is passed on to the teammates. For scoring a point, a team needs to shoot the ball through the basket. If a shot is scored from a distance that is closer to the basket than the 3 point line than it fetches 2 points. Also, if the ball is shot from the distance behind 3 point line, it fetches 3 points. So, the team that has a maximum number of points is declared the winner. 

In case of a draw, there may be additional time allotted to both the teams. In the game, a player is cannot move if he is holding the ball. The player needs to dribble, otherwise, it is considered as a foul. Likewise, when there is a physical contact that affects the other team then it counted as a physical foul. 

Basketball is game played with a maintained and carefully marked court. It is a team sport that is commonly found in many different areas. 

Customize your course in 30 seconds

Which class are you in.

• Travelling Essay
• Picnic Essay
• Our Country Essay
• My Parents Essay
• Essay on Favourite Personality
• Essay on Memorable Day of My Life
• Essay on Knowledge is Power
• Essay on Gurpurab
• Essay on My Favourite Season
• Essay on Types of Sports

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Download the App

• Campus Culture
• High School
• Top Schools

5 Great Examples On How to Start A College Application Essay on Sports

• college application essays
• essay topic

Where do you even start when you’re brainstorming possible essay topics for your college application essays ? Some go for a walk to get inspired, and others look back on their own experiences. Here are 5 college students who decided to talk about their athletic achievements, or used sports as a metaphor:

Amherst College ‘20

The lessons I have learned in tennis can apply to everybody’s life. When someone begins learning tennis, the main focus is to keep the ball in play. Keep the ball going back and forth until you win the point. I honestly struggled keeping up my motivation in high school. However once I finally found a very steady source, it made life much easier and it kept me going much longer. Keep reading.

University of Pennsylvania ‘18

Numerous times I felt like giving up on my basketball dreams yet I didn’t want to be labeled a quitter. Instead, I wanted to one day tell a story just like Michael Jordan’s and how he was initially cut from the varsity team only to end up becoming the best player in the world; this became the driving force of my basketball obsession after I didn’t make the varsity team during my freshman year. View full profile .

Green Water

Dartmouth college ‘18.

Gliding above the liquid glass, I take deep breathes, setting a rhythm for my crew to act together with one mind. Putrid green bubbles can be seen, rising to the water’s surface to gently greet the most crimson-colored sunset found in the Sacramento Valley, only to be crushed by the blade found at the end of my Yao Ming-sized sweeping oar. Each stroke, I pull harder than I did on the one that came before it; each stroke I tear skin from the blisters found on the joints of my fingers that grasp my oar; each stroke I carry my weapon of bubble destruction with more and more confidence. In the long haul of a two-thousand meter race I remember that the pain I feel is temporary and that I am fully capable of pulling my way past the finish line. Read more .

Harvard University ‘17

It all happened within a split second.  I held the orange leather ball firmly between my hands as steaming droplets of sweat ran from my forehead to the tips of my fingers. My lungs desperately begged for oxygen as I stood right before the maroon line fifteen feet away from the basket, crouched into my shooting stance that had been perfected through the hours of repetition spent on this very spot.  Despite the meticulous preparation, my knees trembled out of fear and anxiety.  All eyes within the gymnasium were placed on me—the shortest of the ten in uniform on the hardwood floor.  Tightly shutting my eyes and stiffening my lips, I deeply meditated on the foul shot that was about to be taken.  As the cheers filled my ears, I recalled the days in the past when all of this was a brand new experience; slowly, the roar of the crowd faded to a low murmur then to an utter silence. Continue reading .

Whartonschool19

University of pennsylvania ‘19.

“The 50m freestyle is next. Swimmers, take your positions.” I stepped onto the diving platform as the announcer’s voice echoed through the natatorium and tightened my goggles, not too tight, but just right, like Goldilocks’ porridge. This was my debut since my hiatus from the U10 YMCA Sharks. Standing on the diving board, I could feel the power of the room engulf my being; energy filled my body while my fingers began to tingle. “Chariots of Fire” by Vangelis began to play in my ears. View full profile .

Have you started brainstorming what you should write for your college application essay? If you’re interested in writing about it on sports , unlock the one of the above profiles for free to read the full essay for inspiration! 

Choosing where to go to college is an incredibly important decision. Make an informed choice by talking to current students on our  mentorship platform . Access 60,000+ successful  college application files  uploaded by college students (they get paid when you view them). AdmitSee is a community of students helping students. Our goal is to bring much-needed transparency to higher education. 

About The Author

Frances was born in Hong Kong and received her bachelor’s degree from Georgetown University. She loves super sad drama television, cooking, and reading. Her favorite person on Earth isn’t actually a member of the AdmitSee team - it’s her dog Cooper.

Browse Successful Application Files

Last week, Prompt's CEO shared what mistakes to avoid in your college essay. In Part 2 of this two-part blog series, learn how to pick an essay topic. The key: focus on an admissions officer’s...

With an otherwise great college application, how important can college essays really be? When only 1 in 5 students applying to selective colleges have compelling essays, make sure you avoid this essay mistake....

In this second part of his two-part series, college admissions coach Justin Taylor explains key admissions lessons from 2020, an unprecedented year of firsts, that can help you strategize as we enter into this next application...

In Part one of this two-part series, college admissions coach Justin Taylor explains key lessons about 2020, “a year like no other,” that could seriously boost your chances in 2021, including smarter list building and transcript GPA...

We are so excited to announce that for this year’s scholarship, we selected five scholarship winners to maximize the impact of our $5,000 college scholarship prize money....

• 1. Webinar Series: College Application Prep for High School Juniors
• 2. College Application Lessons from 2020-2021: Strategizing through Covid Changes (Part 2)
• 3. College Admissions Lessons from 2020-2021: Strategizing through Covid Changes (Part 1)

• 5. COVID-19 and Your College Essay: Should You Write About It?
• 6. College Search: How to Find Your Best College Fit
• 7. College Tours 101: Everything You Need to Know
• 8. Waitlisted? 5 Ways to Move from the College Waitlist to Acceptance
• 9. When (and why) should you send additional materials to colleges you’re interested in?
• 10. How to Make Your College Essay Stand Out
• 1. How to Write College Essays to Boost your Chances Part 2: Focusing the Priority
• 2. How to Write College Essays to Boost your Chances Part 1: Biggest Essay Mistakes
• 3. College Application Lessons from 2020-2021: Strategizing through Covid Changes (Part 2)
• 5. Winners of the AdmitSee 2020 College Scholarship
• 6. COVID-19 and Your College Essay: Should You Write About It?
• 7. Education, Access and Systemic Racism
• 8. Applying to BS/MD Direct Medical Programs: Why Early Med School Admission Might be Right for You
• 9. How to Get Off the College Waitlist (5 Go-To Strategies)
• 10. College admissions prep during the Coronavirus

How to Write Great Essay Hooks (Tips + Examples)

Table of contents

Yona Schnitzer

Blank screen. Cursor blinks. Clock ticks. Brain freezes.

You stressfully wonder, “How will I ever finish this essay?”

I’ve been there. 

Every time you write an essay, you want to catch your readers’ undivided attention from the very first word. The opening hook has to be *perfect* — no compromises. 

But, instead of reeling under pressure to come up with this elusively perfect essay hook at the eleventh hour, I’ve found a better way to write great essay hooks. 

In this guide, I’ll tell you what it takes to write the most compelling and attention-grabbing hooks. I’ll also break down six awesome types of essay hooks you can experiment with and share examples to inspire your next opening statement.

What is an Essay Hook?

An essay hook is the opening statement of an essay, written to capture readers' attention and nudge them to learn more about the topic. Also known as a lede or lead, this hook introduces readers to the topic/theme of the essay and piques their curiosity to continue reading. 

The hook creates the entire narrative for your essay. It tells readers what to expect from the rest of the essay and creates context around your main argument or thesis statement. 

6 Types of Essay Hooks You Can Experiment With

I’ve created this handy list of six different types of essay hooks. You can choose the one that best fits your essay’s context and create a stellar opening statement within minutes. 

1. Compelling fact or statistic

Lead with evidence and use a powerful fact or statistic as your essay hook. It’s one of the best ways to capture readers’ attention from the start and keep them intrigued throughout your essay. 

For example, if you’re writing about the importance of time management for freelancers, you have two options to create your opening sentence:

Generic : “Managing time as a freelancer is no easy feat.”

Impactful : “Nearly 70% of freelancers struggle to effectively divide and manage their time between multiple clients.” 

This data point, linked to the original research, sets a strong tone for your essay and draws people in to read more. It communicates  

Find a shocking statistic with AI

Finding relevant statistics for any topic is one of the hardest parts of the job. 

But you don't have to spend hours looking for these data points anymore. Wordtune can do this heavy lifting for you in three easy steps.

• Open the Wordtune editor and add your essay title. 
• Type in any content you've written, click on 'Add spice,' and select the 'Expand on' option.
• Write 'statistics,' and Wordtune will add relevant data points to your content.

2. Bold claim hook

When working on an argumentative essay , I always write with the mindset that nobody has the time to read my thoughts from start to finish. So, I have to get to the point quickly and make a solid argument worth people’s time. 

That's when opening with a bold claim works best. Condense all your views on the topic into a few thought-provoking lines that would make readers go, hmmm…

But remember, you can't open with a claim that people already know and accept as fact. It has to be something original and unique to make your readers tick, nudging them to dive deeper into your essay. 

For example, if you’re writing about water crisis, you have two options to open your essay: 

‍ "In some regions, there is not enough clean water for people to use."

‍ "Imagine a world where every drop of water is a battle, a precious commodity fought over by scores of people and animals alike. This can become a reality as early as 2050."

This bold claim presents a convincing argument about the global water crisis. It also emphasizes the urgency of this argument with a research-backed statistic.

Create a bold claim suggestion using AI

Can’t think of a strong opening sentence for your essay? Wordtune can translate your thoughts into a bold claim and create a compelling essay hook. 

Open your Wordtune editor and write a few lines related to your topic. These sentences should have a consensus among your audience. Then, choose the 'Counterargument' option from the list of suggestions. 

And you’ll have a bold claim for your essay with no effort at all!

3. Story/Anecdote hook

In all my years of writing, I’ve noticed how stories have a unique effect on people. A good story can resonate with a bigger audience, pique their curiosity, and deliver a more personal message. 

That's why you can cite a personal anecdote or talk about a publicly known story as a good hook for your essay. This hook allows you to play with words and work in more storytelling . 

One of my favorite writing tips applies here: enter the scene as late as possible and leave as early as possible. You have to keep it crisp instead of rambling on and on. 

Consider these two examples:

Either of these hooks could work fine if we were just writing a personal essay about a move to a new place. But if we’re specifically writing about the sky, the second example is better. It sticks to the point — the sky and the color of the sky — and doesn’t stray into irrelevant details. 

Create a compelling story with AI

I get it—not all of us are natural storytellers. But you can use AI to your advantage to create a concise and exciting story for your essay.  

Wordtune can help you write a short story from scratch or trim down your writing into a quick anecdote. Click on the expand or shorten button to edit your story any way you like. 

4. Question Hook

Humans have a tendency to immediately look for answers every time they come across fascinating questions. Using questions as essay hooks can reel people into your essay and feed their curiosity.

But questions are also fairly overused in essays. You don't want to use a generic question that makes people say, " Not another question ." 

Instead, think of questions that approach your topic from a fresh angle. This means honing in on what was especially interesting or surprising from your research—and maybe even brainstorming different questions to find the most fascinating one.

For example, if you’re writing about the psychology behind why we buy, you have two options to open your essay:

‍ “Do you know what factors compel us to buy certain things?”

Plugged in :

“Before buying anything, have you ever taken a moment to pause and think about possible reasons driving you to this purchase?”

The latter is more descriptive and creates a realistic scenario for readers to truly think about the topic of the essay.

5. Description hook

A descriptive hook works best when writing an explanatory or opinion-led essay. Descriptive hooks, as the name suggests, illustrate a topic in detail to create context for the essay. It's a good way to build awareness for and educate readers on lesser-known themes.

But a descriptive hook can easily become too plain or unexciting to read. To make it work, you have to write an engaging description using imagery, analogies, and other figures of speech. 

Remember to make your hook reader-friendly by avoiding passive voice, mainstream cliches, and lengthy sentences.

Consider this example:

Describing a sunset is too cliche, so cross that one off the list. Describing the sky as it is on a normal day wouldn't be shocking or unexpected, so scratch that one, too.

This example creates something unique by using analogies to describe the color of the sky and painting a beautiful picture. 

Write a gripping description with AI

Writing an exciting hook for a boring topic is more challenging than it looks. But Wordtune makes it a breeze with just two steps:

• Open the Wordtune editor and write your essay topic.
• Click on Explain or Emphasize and let it work its magic.

You can also change the tone of voice to make the text more in tune with your theme. 

6. Metaphor hook

One of my favorite essay hooks is to open with a persuasive metaphor to contextualize the topic. Metaphors can help you approach the topic from a completely different lens and wow your readers with interesting insight. 

Metaphors are also super versatile to make your writing more impactful. You can write a one-line metaphor or create a scenario comparing one thing to another and linking it to your topic. 

For example, if you’re writing about the experience of working at a startup, you can open your essay with these two options:

Short & sweet: "Joining a startup is like strapping into a rollercoaster: be ready to witness thrilling highs and sinking drops."

Long & descriptive : “Picture a small sailboat navigating the unpredictable winds and tides in a vast ocean. That’s a startup operating in a massive market. And with the right vision, this journey is filled with risks and rewards.” 

Create a convincing metaphor with AI

Writing good metaphors takes up a lot of creative brain power. You can always use Wordtune to find some extra inspiration if you're out of creative ideas. 

Type your opening line in the Wordtune editor and click on the 'Give an analogy' option. You can ask for as many suggestions as you want till you find the best one! 

What to Know About Your Essay (and Topic) Before You Write the Hook

Whether you’re writing a research paper on economics, an argumentative essay for your college composition class, or a personal essay sharing your thoughts on a topic, you need to nail down a few things before you settle on the first line for your essay.

‍ Let me break them down for you. 

1. Gain in-depth knowledge of your topic

Before you start writing your essay, you need to know your topic — not just in name, but in-depth. You don't have to become a subject matter expert overnight. But you do need to research the topic inside out 

Your research will help you:

• Narrow your focus
• Build an argument
• Shape the narrative

Your research insights determine your essay’s structure and guide your choice of hook. 

After organizing your research in a neat outline, think to yourself: ‍Did you uncover a shocking fact? A compelling anecdote? An interesting quote? Any of those things could be your hook.

⚡ ‍ Take action:  After finishing your research, review your notes and think through your essay. Mark or make a list of anything compelling enough to be a good lead.

2. Type of essay

In academic settings, there are generally three kinds of essays:

• Argumentative: Making the case for a certain stance or route of action.
• Expository: Explaining the who, what, when, where, why, and how of some phenomenon.
• Narrative: Telling a true story as a way to explore different ideas.

‍ The type of essay you’re writing is key to choosing the best hook for your piece. 

A serious argumentative essay can start with a shocking statistic or a bold claim. And an expository essay can open with a descriptive hook while a metaphor hook would work best for a narrative essay.

⚡ ‍ Take action: Go through your list of potential hooks and cross out anything that doesn't fit the type of essay you're writing, whether it's persuasive , argumentative, or any other type.

3. Audience and tone

A best practice I often share with writers is to think of one reader and keep yourself in their shoes . This exercise can tell you so much about your audience — what kind of tone they like, what matters the most to them, what topics interest them, and so on. 

You can use these insights to create a compelling essay hook. Here’s how:

• For an argumentative essay, you’re trying to convince someone who doesn’t agree with you that what you’re claiming is right or, at least, reasonable. You don’t want to turn them off with snarky or offensive language — but you do want to be authoritative. Your hook should match that tone and support your effort.
• A narrative essay is likely to welcome more lyrical language, so starting with a colorful description or an anecdote might make more sense than, say, a bold claim or surprising fact. Whatever tone you choose for your narrative essay — comical or gentle or bold — should be used for your hook.
• ‍ Expository essays can use all sorts of tones and be written to a variety of audiences, so think carefully about the tone that best fits your subject matter. An essay explaining how the human body shuts down when overdosed will likely require a different tone than one on the lives of circus masters in the late 1800s. 

⚡ ‍ Take action: Look at your list. Can you write these potential hooks in a tone that suits your subject and audience?

4. Length of essay

Are you writing a 10-page paper or a three-page reflection? Or is this your senior thesis, pushing over 100 pages?

‍ If you’re writing a shorter paper, you’ll want to keep your hook quick and snappy.  

Readers are expecting a quick read, and they don’t want to spend five minutes only going through the introduction. 

In contrast, you can approach a longer essay — like a senior thesis or a term paper — with a longer hook. Just make sure your hook relates to and supports the core point of your essay. You don’t want to waste space describing a scene that ultimately has nothing to do with the rest of your piece.

⚡ ‍ Take action: If you write out the items on your list, how long will they be? A sentence or paragraph? Perfect. Two to five paragraphs? Unless your essay is on the longer side, you may want to save that information for later in the piece.

‍ Now that you know the basic facts about what you’re writing, let’s look at some approaches you could use to catch those readers — and reel them in.

3 Approaches to Avoid When Writing Hooks 

I’ve read hundreds of essays — enough to recognize lazy writing from the first few words. It’s equally easy for readers to discard your essays as ‘poorly written’ just by reading the first line. 

So, I made a list of three types of essay hooks you want to avoid at all costs because these hooks can only disappoint your readers. 

1. Quotations

Quotes are probably the most overused type of hook in any form of writing. What's even worse is rinsing and repeating the same old quotes from Abraham Lincoln or Nelson Mandela in your essays. 

No matter how powerful a quote sounds, you shouldn’t slap it at the opening of your essay. It doesn’t give readers the excitement of reading something original and looks lazy.

For example, if you’re writing an essay on productivity, here’s what a good and bad lede looks like:

“Amateurs sit and wait for inspiration, the rest of us just get up and go to work” – Stephen King

Did you know that consuming 100 gms of sugar can slash your productivity levels by over 50% in a day?  

2. Definitions

The New Oxford American Dictionary defines a hook as "a thing designed to catch people's attention." 

If I opened my article with this dictionary definition of a hook, you’d have either dozed off or left this page long back to find something more interesting. 

Here's the thing: definitions put people to sleep. Readers don't want to see a formal, jargon-heavy definition of a topic as the very first line of an essay. Your opening statement should have some personality in it to show readers they're in for an exciting read. 

For example, if you’re writing about happy hormones, here’s what a good and bad lede looks like:

Happy hormones are known to boost the happiness levels in your body by creating positive feelings.

Ever wondered why cat videos make you instantly happy, and ice creams give you an extra dose of energy? It's all about how happy hormones control our brain chemistry.

3. “Imagine this”

Opening your essay with "Imagine this" used to be an interesting way to put your readers in a scenario and set the context for your essay. But now, it's far too cliched and just another lazy attempt to write an essay hook. 

You can create a relatable scenario for users without asking them to imagine or picture it. Use the descriptive hook format with an interesting choice of words to convey the same ideas more creatively.

For example, if you’re writing an essay on preparing for higher studies abroad, here’s what a good and bad lede looks like:

Imagine this: You’ve been applying to multiple universities, writing SOPs, and preparing for exams without guidance. Everything can go south any minute. 

College application season is officially here. But with each passing day, you’re under more and more stress to apply to your chosen colleges and tick all the items off your list.

‍Our Go-To Trick for Writing Catchy Hooks

This opening statement can make or break your entire essay. While I’ve broken down my best tips to create the best essay hooks, here’s a surefire way to write compelling openings :

Go through your notes and either outline your essay or write the whole thing. This way, you’ll know the central thread (or throughline) that runs throughout your piece. 

Once your essay or outline is complete, go back through and identify a particularly compelling fact, claim, or example that relates to that central thread.

‍Write up that fact, claim, or example as the hook for your essay using any of the methods we’ve covered. Then revise or write your essay so the hook leads smoothly into the rest of the piece and you don’t repeat that information elsewhere.

Does your hook spark curiosity in you? 

Did that fact surprise you in the research stage? 

Chances are, your readers will have the same reaction.

And that’s exactly what you want.

Share This Article:

8 Tips for E-commerce Copywriting Success (with Examples!)

The Brand Strategy Deck You Need to Drive Social Media Results + 5 Examples

Grammarly Alternatives: Which Writing Assistant is the Best Choice for You?

Looking for fresh content, thank you your submission has been received.

• Grammar Checker
• Paraphrasing Tool
• Critique Report
• Writing Reports
• Learn Blog Grammar Guide Community Events FAQ
• Grammar Guide

How to Write a Hook: Top 5 Tips for Writers

By Hannah Yang

How do you make people feel excited to read your work?

Well, for starters, you can write a great hook.

The “hook” refers to the first sentence, or first few sentences, of an essay, article, or story. That’s because these first few lines need to hook readers in, the same way fishermen use bait to hook fish in.

If you’re trying to figure out how to write a hook, you’ve come to the right place. Read on to learn how to write a fantastic hook and to see some examples of successful ones.

What Is a Hook in Writing?

Top 5 tips for writing good hooks, great examples of hooks, is writing a hook in an essay different from a story hook, conclusion on how to write a hook.

We use the term “hook” to talk about the very beginning of a written work—specifically the part designed to grab readers’ attention. The hook can be as short as a single sentence or as long as a full paragraph.

Writing hooks is a necessary skill for all types of writing—narrative essays, research papers, fiction writing, and more.

What Makes a Good Hook Important?

Good hooks make your reader feel excited to keep reading.

If you’re writing a book, you need a great hook so people decide to actually buy your work, instead of putting it back on the shelf.

If you’re writing a blog post or article, you need a great hook so people read to the end, instead of scrolling or flipping to a different article instead.

And if you’re writing an essay for school, you need a good hook so you can practice the skill of writing well.

What Are the Different Types of Hooks?

There’s more than one way to write a great hook.

Here are six types of hooks that will grab your reader’s attention.

• Question hook : a question that provokes the reader’s curiosity and makes them keep reading to find out the answer
• Statement hook : a strong declaration related to your topic that makes the reader keep reading to see you defend this statement
• Statistic hook : an interesting fact or statistic that makes you sound knowledgeable, so your reader trusts your expertise
• Quote hook : a memorable quote, often by a famous person, that the reader will find interesting
• Description hook : a vivid description that immerses your reader into a specific scene
• Anecdotal hook : a personal story that relates to your topic and makes the reader feel personally connected to the story

Here are our top tips for writing a strong opening hook.

Tip 1: Surprise the Reader

Readers crave the unexpected. If you start your piece in a surprising way, they’ll be more likely to keep reading.

You can even say something controversial. Readers will want to keep reading to see how you prove your own statement.

Tip 2: Raise a Question

When starting an essay or a story, you should try to create a question that the reader wants answered.

This doesn’t have to be a literal question that ends with a question mark—instead, it can simply be an unusual statement or a weird situation. Make sure it’s something your target audience will find interesting.

Tip 3: Keep Your Promises

If you open your essay with an interesting hook, you need to be mindful of what you’re promising to the reader. If you don’t keep that promise throughout the piece, your reader will feel tricked.

For example, you’d probably be unhappy if you read a story that started with, “The monster was coming for me” and then, later in the first chapter, said, “Then I woke up and realized it was just a nightmare.”

The first sentence is a strong opening hook, but it promises a dramatic scene, which doesn’t get fulfilled, because the hook turns out not to be real.

An equivalent in an essay would be writing a controversial statement and then failing to prove why that statement is true, or asking an interesting question and then failing to answer it later.

Tip 4: Keep It Relevant

Some writers try so hard to choose an interesting hook that they end up using something irrelevant to their essay. Readers will get confused if you open with a random quote or statistic that only tangentially connects to your thesis.

If you’re choosing between a fascinating hook that doesn’t have much to do with your topic, or a decent hook that’s directly related to your thesis statement, you should go with the latter.

Tip 5: Don’t Stop at the Hook

Some writers focus so much on nailing the opening hook that they forget to make the rest of the essay equally strong.

Your reader could still stop reading on the second page, or the third, or the tenth. Make sure you use strong and engaging writing throughout the piece.

One way to learn how to write hooks is to look at examples.

Here are examples of six hooks you could use to start a persuasive essay about artificial intelligence, plus three hooks you could use to start a sci-fi story.

Example 1: Question Hook

• Will artificial intelligence someday become smarter than humans?

Example 2: Statement Hook

• Artificial intelligence could become smarter than humans by 2050.

Example 3: Statistic Hook

• As of 2022, the global AI industry is worth over $130 billion.

Example 4: Quote Hook

• The scientist Stephen Hawking once said, “The development of full artificial intelligence could spell the end of the human race.”

Example 5: Description Hook

• The Alexa AI blinks from the kitchen table, emitting a comforting blue light.

Example 6: Anecdotal Hook

• Like many people of my generation, I used an AI for the first time when I was twelve years old.

Example 7: Sci-Fi Story Hooks

• Samuel Gibson had friends. Sure, all his friends were AI robots that his parents had purchased for him, but they still counted as friends.
• My father’s office is full of strange machines, which none of us are allowed to touch.
• The AI revolt began on Christmas morning of the year 2068.

Both essays and stories require good hooks. After all, you’re still competing for your reader’s attention, no matter what kind of work you’re writing.

However, a story hook will look very different from an essay hook.

If you’re writing fiction, you most likely won’t use a statistic, question, or quote to hook your readers in. Instead, your best options will be a statement, a description, or an anecdote—or, or often, a sentence that combines a little bit of all three.

Just like with essays, you should try to raise a question in your reader’s head. This can be a strange character, an unusual setting, or a mysterious fact.

Here are some examples of strong hooks in novels:

“My first memory, when I was three years old, was of trying to kill my sister.”—Jodi Piccoult, My Sister’s Keeper

“It is a truth universally acknowledged, that a single man in possession of a good fortune, must be in want of a wife.”—Jane Austen, Pride and Prejudice

“Once upon a time, on the coldest night of midwinter, in the darkest heart of the forest, Death and Fortune came to a crossroads.”—Margaret Owen, Little Thieves

“The women gather in a YMCA basement rec room: hard linoleum floors, half-windows along one wall, view of sidewalk and brick.”—Maria Adelmann, How to Be Eaten

“I became what I am today at the age of twelve, on a rainy overcast day in 1975.”—Khaled Hosseini, The Kite Runner

“It did not surprise Fire that the man in the forest shot her. What surprised her was that he shot her by accident.”—Kristen Cashore, Fire

There you have it—a complete guide to writing a fantastic hook.

ProWritingAid has specific settings for creative writers and students, so it can help you write your story or essay. Try it out the next time you need to write a hook.

Good luck, and happy writing!

Be confident about grammar

Check every email, essay, or story for grammar mistakes. Fix them before you press send.

Hannah Yang

Hannah Yang is a speculative fiction writer who writes about all things strange and surreal. Her work has appeared in Analog Science Fiction, Apex Magazine, The Dark, and elsewhere, and two of her stories have been finalists for the Locus Award. Her favorite hobbies include watercolor painting, playing guitar, and rock climbing. You can follow her work on hannahyang.com, or subscribe to her newsletter for publication updates.

Get started with ProWritingAid

Drop us a line or let's stay in touch via:

• Link to facebook
• Link to linkedin
• Link to twitter
• Link to youtube
• Writing Tips

How to Write the Ultimate Essay Hook

4-minute read

• 6th May 2023

Never underestimate the power of an essay hook . This opening statement is meant to grab the reader’s attention and convince them to keep reading. But how do you write one that’ll pack a punch? In this article, we’ll break this down.

What Is an Essay Hook?

An essay hook is the first thing your audience will read. If it doesn’t hook them right off the bat, they might decide not to keep reading. It’s important that your opening statement is impactful while not being too wordy or presumptuous.

It’s also crucial that it clearly relates to your topic. You don’t want to mislead your readers into thinking your essay is about something it’s not. So, what kind of essay hook should you write? Here are seven ideas to choose from:

1.   Story

Everyone likes a good story. If an interesting story or anecdote relates to your essay topic, the hook is a great place to include it. For example:

The key to a good story hook is keeping it short and sweet. You’re not writing a novel in addition to an essay!

2.   Fact

Another great essay hook idea is to lay out a compelling fact or statistic. For example:

There are a few things to keep in mind when doing this. Make sure it’s relevant to your topic, accurate, and something your audience will care about. And, of course, be sure to cite your sources properly.

3.   Metaphor or Simile

If you want to get a little more creative with your essay hook, try using a metaphor or simile . A metaphor states that something is something else in a figurative sense, while a simile states that something is like something else.

Metaphors and similes are effective because they provide a visual for your readers, making them think about a concept in a different way. However, be careful not to make them too far-fetched or overly exaggerated.

4.   Question

Asking your audience a question is a great way to hook them. Not only does it make them think, but they’ll also want to keep reading because you will have sparked their curiosity. For example:

Find this useful?

Subscribe to our newsletter and get writing tips from our editors straight to your inbox.

Try to avoid using questions that start with something along the lines of “Have you ever wondered…?” Instead, try to think of a question they may never have wondered about. And be sure not to answer it right away, at least not fully. Use your essay to do that!

5.   Declaration

Making a bold statement or declaring a strong opinion can immediately catch people’s attention. For example:

Regardless of whether your reader agrees with you, they’ll probably want to keep reading to find out how you will back up your claim. Just make sure your declaration isn’t too controversial, or you might scare readers away!

6.   Common Misconception

Laying out a common misconception is another useful way to hook your reader. For example:

If your readers don’t know that a common belief is actually a misconception, they’ll likely be interested in learning more. And if they are already aware, it’s probably a topic they’re interested in, so they’ll want to read more.

7.   Description

You can put your descriptive powers into action with your essay hook. Creating interesting or compelling imagery places your reader into a scene, making the words come alive.

A description can be something beautiful and appealing or emotionally charged and provoking. Either way, descriptive writing is a powerful way to immerse your audience and keep them reading.

When writing an essay, don’t skimp on the essay hook! The opening statement has the potential to convince your audience to hear what you have to say or to let them walk away. We hope our ideas have given you some inspiration.

And once you finish writing your essay, make sure to send it to our editors. We’ll check it for grammar, spelling, word choice, references, and more. Try it out for free today with a 500-word sample !

Share this article:

Post A New Comment

Got content that needs a quick turnaround? Let us polish your work. Explore our editorial business services.

5-minute read

Free Email Newsletter Template

Promoting a brand means sharing valuable insights to connect more deeply with your audience, and...

6-minute read

How to Write a Nonprofit Grant Proposal

If you’re seeking funding to support your charitable endeavors as a nonprofit organization, you’ll need...

9-minute read

How to Use Infographics to Boost Your Presentation

Is your content getting noticed? Capturing and maintaining an audience’s attention is a challenge when...

8-minute read

Why Interactive PDFs Are Better for Engagement

Are you looking to enhance engagement and captivate your audience through your professional documents? Interactive...

7-minute read

Seven Key Strategies for Voice Search Optimization

Voice search optimization is rapidly shaping the digital landscape, requiring content professionals to adapt their...

Five Creative Ways to Showcase Your Digital Portfolio

Are you a creative freelancer looking to make a lasting impression on potential clients or...

Make sure your writing is the best it can be with our expert English proofreading and editing.

Opinion Writing ~ Hook and Topic Sentence

Following a lightning-quick writer’s craft mini-lesson (see yesterday’s post for more details), the writers in Room 411 dive right into a graphic organizer for our opinion writing essays. The graphic organizer I designed for my students during our opinion writing unit has several parts so I’m going to break it down into three separate posts. Today I’m focusing on the top section with a writing hook and topic sentence . Taken together this part of the graphic organizer represents what will become the first paragraph in our essays.

Amazing Anchor Charts

I freely admit to using other resources created by outstanding teacher-authors through TpT . One of those is a set of anchor charts from Teaching in the Tongass . My students have learned a lot about how to write a really interesting hook to grab their readers’ attention. The hook anchor chart is FREE ! Once I had it posted in my classroom I was quite literally hooked myself, and I had to purchase the conclusions chart to go with it.

Topic Sentences for Opinion Essays

Once students have at least tentatively planned their writing “hook” on their graphic organizer, it’s time to work on a topic sentence. This is the foundation for the entire essay so it’s important that it be clearly stated and well-written. I encourage students to write their topic sentences using a complex sentence structure as I think it allows them to express their ideas and is grade-appropriate. If they followed directions the day before in our writer’s workshop, students should have the basis for their topic sentence in the “My Opinion” box on the Analysis Chart.

Create-Your-Own Organizers

While I provide my students with a ready-to-go graphic organizer, I also prepare them for the reality of an assessment situation where such supports are not provided. We discuss and practice making our own organizers in our Writer’s Notebook. Once students are familiar with the “model” of the graphic organizer I have provided, they can use that as the pattern for making their own. As long as they understand the process for writing, they can easily learn how to organize their ideas during an assessment.

Don’t put that organizer away just yet – tomorrow I’ll focus on the middle section, which forms the bulk of our essay and is packed with details. Happy teaching!

• Free Opinion Writing Prompt ~ Smartphones for Kids

7 thoughts on “Opinion Writing ~ Hook and Topic Sentence”

Thank you for the article!

You are very welcome! Thank you for reading and commenting! 🙂

Thanks! This is very usefull

Thank you for this. This was very useful in helping my 4th grader write a good hook.

i am a fifth grader and this information has helped me ever since i was in third grade plz make more.

This is such a great organizer and I love the reflection piece. Do you have any blank organizers available anywhere?

Hi, Katelyn! I have several writing units in my TpT store, and they each have a similar organizer. https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/The-Reflective-Educator/Category/Writing-Units-344207

Also, be sure to check out my Freebies section on my blog if you are looking for free resources. Thanks for your comment! 🙂

Leave a Comment Cancel Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *