A New Benchmark in Mini Basketball
Nicholas DeMarinis, widely recognized online as Nickybucketz, has once again rewritten the limits of miniature basketball. During a recent Pop‑a‑Shot event, he launched a ball from a distance of 102.98 feet (31.39 m), a feat that earned him a fresh entry in the Guinness World Records.
The shot not only topped his own earlier mark of 31 m (101 ft 8.47 in) but also came remarkably close to the male record set by Joshua Walker, who reached 113 ft 6 in (34.6 m). Only a 10‑foot gap separated the two milestones, underscoring the razor‑thin margins that define elite Pop‑a‑Shot competition.
DeMarinis first captured public attention in September 2025 when he sank 232 consecutive miniature baskets at a tournament in Tampa, Florida. Since then, he has become a staple on the National Pop‑a‑Shot circuit, a series televised by ESPN that showcases the sport’s blend of precision and endurance.
Beyond the Record: A Family Affair and a Celebration
The record‑breaking attempt unfolded as part of a 4th of July gathering with friends, adding a festive backdrop to the athletic endeavor. DeMarinis shared the experience with his twin sons, turning the moment into a family showcase of skill and camaraderie.
What sets the competition apart is the equipment itself. Participants wield a markedly smaller basketball than a standard size, a detail that DeMarinis highlighted as he described the shot’s trajectory — spinning off the backboard before finding the net.
The event’s competitive spirit is evident in the scores posted by top players, many of whom routinely exceed 350 baskets in a single game. Such performances illustrate how Pop‑a‑Shot blends fast‑paced action with a high degree of technical mastery.