Holding Court: The Social Regulation of Masculinity in University Pickup Basketball

Abstract

“Inclusive masculinity,” in which manhood is performed in a way that accepts, rather than stigmatizes, deviations from hegemonic ideals, has been analyzed in a variety of settings. Most commonly, these environments have been quasi-familial, predominantly white, and governed by formal norms. It has been underexplored in other contexts. In university pickup basketball, participants tend to be racially diverse strangers, in an inherently adversarial situation, with no supervision. Yet despite this, hostility is rare and comradery pervasive. Through interviews and participant observation at two large university recreation centers, I find a masculinity that is both traditional and flexible enough to welcome difference. An unwritten “Code of the Courts” is evident, which is rooted in interpersonal respect, accommodation of diversity, and a utilitarian sense of community.