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Facebook Messenger has a hidden basketball game

Just send the basketball emoji on iOS or Android.

Justin Edmonds/Getty Images

March Madness is upon us, bringing dunks and layups galore as 68 college teams vie for the national championship. It's easy to get swept up in the hype, but if you're anything like me a trip to the court only ends in disappointment, rather than any spectacular recreation of a trick shot or buzzer beater. Instead, we recommend checking out Messenger Madness, a hidden game built into Facebook's chat app. Just send a basketball emoji to some friends and you can face off in a swipe-based shooting contest.

At first it's easy enough. The ball moves after each throw, creating increasingly difficult angles for your digits to contend with. The aim is to nail consecutive baskets and build up a high score that's insurmountable for your Facebook friends. The problem is that the basket moves from side to side once your score breaches 10, making perfect shots nigh on impossible. But what would be the fun without a little challenge?