These prayers are for the huddle before tip-off, for the free-throw line, for the bench and for after the buzzer.
Historical Context
Naismith’s game was built to teach teamwork; he banned running with the ball so players would have to pass. A team prayer before a game is in the same spirit: five people, one team, playing for something bigger than themselves.
A Basketball Prayer Before the Game
Lord, thank you for this game and this team.
Keep everyone on both benches safe from injury.
Help us play hard, play smart and play together.
Let us share the ball and share the credit.
Keep our heads up after mistakes and humble after big plays.
Whatever the score, let us honour you.
Amen.
At the Free-Throw Line
Lord, quiet the crowd in my head. Steady my hands. Amen.
A Coach’s Prayer
Lord, give me wisdom in every timeout and patience with every mistake.
Let me build players into good people, not just good players.
Let every kid on this bench know they matter.
Amen.
After the Final Buzzer
Thank you, Lord, for the game, for safe bodies and for teammates.
If we won, keep us humble. If we lost, keep us hungry.
Amen.
Best Times for This Prayer
- In the locker room or huddle before tip-off.
- Before a tournament, playoff or championship game.
- Before tryouts.
- After the game, win or lose.
Scripture Connection
“I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith.” — 2 Timothy 4:7
Paul looks back on his life as a race run to the end. He doesn’t mention winning; he mentions finishing and keeping faith. That’s a good way to judge any game too.
Related prayers
For other sports, see the Baseball Prayer and the Softball Prayer. For coaches, the Coaches Prayer.