The sport of basketball has held a firm place among America's most beloved pastimes ever since it spun off from the popular breakfast spread NBA Jam. Hone tasty on-court techniques with today's Groupon: for $40, you get two hours of private basketball lessons from Next Level Hoops Academy (an $80 value).

Assembled by founder and former Wichita State basketball player Jason Perez, Next Level Hoops Academy's certified player-development specialists customize training for young athletes ages 7 and up. The academy's coaches mold minds and muscles during one-on-one sessions, building bodily strength and mental endurance through resistance training and timed quizzes on basketball history.

In addition to gym-style workouts, students spend an hour each lesson drilling everything from dribbling and footwork to the taxonomic classifications of team mascots. Novice ballers build strong foundations with lessons on court fundamentals, and experienced players unlock advanced moves culled from expert playbooks and ancient manuscripts on medieval dunk techniques.

In addition to bolstering students’ physical conditions, Next Level's training regimen gears players toward improving communication skills, discipline, and focus. Players learn the qualities of on-court leadership, preparing to inspire teams or calm jittery referees.