How do you play 9-ball?

Nine-ball (9-ball) is a pool game played with nine balls (1-9) racked in a diamond pattern with the 9-ball in the center. The lowest numbered ball must always be hit first. The person who pockets the 9-ball wins the game. Here’s a concise rules summary for 8-ball and 9-ball (based on the WPA World Standardized Rules).

Here are some useful resources related to 9-ball:

• break shot technique, strategy and advice
• game strategy
• safety play advice
• Video Encyclopedia of Nine-ball and Ten-ball (VENT)

Here’s a fun and challenging 9-ball “playing the ghost” rating drill that can be used to evaluate and monitor your playing level and improvement over time.

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