This should go without saying, but some cats still show up without it. Bring some game. You don't have to be MJ, but if you're coming to the BBQ, you gotta bring something to the table. Bring a jumper, hops, speed, defense, a big body, handles, an understanding of the pick and roll or at the very least, some hand-eye coordination. You don't have to have it all, but at least have one.

Within the first thirty seconds of seeing the run, you'll know if it's for you or not. If you see anyone in jeans and/or boots, move on to the next available court. And if you think the run may be out of your league, don't be that guy that ruins the game. Again, move on to the next available court.

Mind out of the gutters, people. You know how the saying goes: A closed mouth don't get fed. If you're looking to play in the next game, call next or they'll just "run it back" without you. If you see a bunch of people waiting, find out who has next and try to get on with them. Depending on which hood you're in, you might not get picked up over their boys who are perpetually "on their way". Please, please, please don't just walk on the court and expect to play simply because you were waiting. I've seen many a hurt feeling from closed mouth newbies. The moral of the story: Call next, be assertive, or just get punked.

This ain't the League. All you need are sneakers, shorts, a shirt (mandatory) and if you're like me, an apparatus or two to protect your war wounds i.e. braces, mouth guards, tape, etc. Leave your matching wristbands, AI sleeves, finger bands, Latrell Sprewell spinner sneakers, throwback jerseys and whole team uniforms at home. Other fashion faux pas include denim (pants or shorts), boots, flip flops, sandals, bare feet, watches, belts, cell phones clipped to said belts, fake iced out medallions (real ones too, by the way), button ups, slacks and church shoes. Believe me. I've seen it all, and it ain't pretty.

Lastly, you need to win. Every point counts and games don't last forever. Losing jeopardizes your ability to get back on the court. Not because you've got the scarlet letter L, but sometimes the waits are just too damn long.