Quick answer: Kelly pool is a group pool game for about 2 to 15 players. Each player secretly draws a small numbered token, often called a pill or pea, from a shaker bottle. That number is your secret ball. All 15 balls are racked, and players shoot in turn. In the common version, you must hit the lowest numbered ball on the table first, like in rotation. The first player to legally pocket the ball with their secret number wins. House rules vary a lot, so agree on them before you start.
Kelly pool is a fun game for groups because nobody knows whose ball is whose. Here is how to play.
What You Need
- A pool table with all 15 object balls and a cue ball
- A shaker bottle with numbered pills from 1 to 15, or small slips of paper with numbers
- Two or more players
Step 1: Draw Your Secret Number
Each player shakes the bottle and takes out one pill without showing anyone. Keep it hidden. If you are using paper slips, fold them so nobody can see.
Step 2: Set the Shooting Order
Some groups draw a second pill for shooting order. Others lag or just take turns around the table. Write the order down if you have a big group.
Step 3: Rack and Break
Rack all 15 balls in a triangle. Many groups put the 1 ball at the front spot. The first player breaks.
Step 4: Shoot in Rotation
In the common rotation style:
- The shooter must hit the lowest numbered ball first.
- If a ball goes in legally, the shooter keeps going.
- If they miss, the next player shoots.
This is close to the way rotation pool rules work.
Step 5: Win the Game
The first player to legally pocket the ball that matches their secret number wins. They show their pill to prove it.
If someone else pockets your ball, you are usually out of that game, but house rules vary.
Common House Rules
| Question | Common choices |
|---|---|
| Must you hit the lowest ball first? | Yes in rotation style, no in some casual games |
| What if you pocket your ball on a foul? | It does not count, and the ball is often spotted |
| What if nobody wins? | Re rack and play again |
| Can you play more than one pill? | Some groups allow it |
Fouls in Kelly Pool
Common fouls include scratching, not hitting the lowest ball first, and no ball hitting a rail after contact. A foul usually ends your turn. Some groups spot a ball back on the table after a foul. Need a refresher on pool terms? See billiard terms and definitions.
Strategy Tips
- Do not give away your number. Shoot with the same face for every ball.
- Watch what others avoid. If a player keeps leaving a ball alone, it might be theirs.
- Think about safeties. Leave a tough shot for the next player when you can.
Kelly Pool vs Other Group Games
| Game | Main idea |
|---|---|
| Kelly pool | Sink your secret ball first |
| Cutthroat | Protect your group of balls |
| Killer pool | Lives that you lose when you miss |
Learn the others in how to play cutthroat pool and how to play killer pool.
Other Fun Games to Try
For two players, try pool games for 2 players. For a quick game, try how to play 7 ball pool. Want something different? Try how to play golf on a pool table.
The Bottom Line
To play Kelly pool, each player secretly draws a numbered pill, everyone takes turns shooting, often in rotation, and the first player to legally pocket their secret ball wins. Agree on house rules before you start, keep your number secret, and have fun with your group.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many people can play Kelly pool?
It can be played by about 2 to 15 players, since there are 15 numbered balls.
What do you need to play Kelly pool?
A pool table, a full set of balls, and a shaker bottle with numbered pills or small numbered slips of paper.
How do you win Kelly pool?
You win by being the first to legally pocket the ball that matches your secret number.
Do you have to hit the lowest ball first in Kelly pool?
In the common rotation style, yes. Some casual house rules skip this, so agree first.