It’s that time of year again. Agents, contracts and multi-million dollar endorsements are stripped away, and all we’re left with is the purity of the game. No, I’m not referring to the NCAA tournament, but instead, the time-honored tradition of pop-a-shot. Grab your quarters and head to these fine establishments to test your mid-range shot against the high scores of yesteryear.
1. Sports Harbour. In addition to their primo basketball hoop, Sports Harbour also offers pool, air hockey, shuffleboard and an honest-to goodness Breathalyzer. All great distractions when your brackets are busted within the first 36 hours of play.
2. Busby’s West and East. With locations in Santa Monica and Miracle Mile, Busby’s will have plenty of TV’s to cover all of the tournament action. They also offer a host of sports bar games along with their durable and reasonably-sized “Super Shot”. The backboard is particularly kind on this one, so don’t be afraid to heave it up there. With five balls, speed is a must.
3. Barney’s Beanery. Odds are that a Barney’s Beanery is never too far from you in Los Angeles. A lot of eyes will be on you the moment you walk in the door. Just stick with the basics that got you here. Slightly bent knees. Distinct follow-through. Muscle memory. You got this. Oh, and it's home the Pop-A-Shot King, Ricardo "the Busboy" Reyes. See Ricardo taking on the other King, Lebron James below.
4. Dave and Busters. You’ve advanced like a Cinderella story out of the Westside bracket, and now you’re ready for the big time. At their recently-opened location on Hollywood & Highland, you’ll find 15-foot screens to watch the games and plenty of competition for a friendly match.
Just want to focus on the hoops happening on TV? Check out the best sports bars in Los Angeles.