Basketball Drills
Basketball Drills
Basketball Drills
Drill 01
Drill 02
Drill 03
Drill 04
Drill 05
Drill 06
Drill 07
Drill 08
Drill 09
Drill 10
Drill 11
Drill 12
Drill 13
Drill 14
Drill 15
Drill 16
Drill 17
Drill 18
Drill 19
Drill 20
Drill 21
Drill 22
Drill 23
Drill 24
Drill 25
Drill 26
Drill 27
Drill 28
Drill 29
Drill 30
Drill 31
Drill 32
Drill 33
Drill 34
Drill 35
Drill 36
Drill 37
Drill 38
Drill 39
Drill 40
Drill 41
Drill 42
Drill 43
Drill 44
Drill 45
Drill 46
Drill 47
Drill 48
Drill 49
Drill 50
Drill 51
Drill 52
Drill 53
Basketball Drill
Drill Number:
01
Name:
Type:
Passing, Defense
Description:
Players form a circle around a single defender.
Players in the circle must make passes to others in the circle, but may not pass to a
player next to them.
The defender must pressure the player with the ball and attempt to intercept or
"touch" the pass.
On an interception or "touch" the passer replaces the defender in the middle.
Variations:
1.
2.
3.
4.
Points of Emphasis:
1.
2.
3.
4.
Basketball Drill
Drill Number:
02
Name:
Type:
Defense
Description:
Coach has ball outside three-point line. Offensive player starts in
opposite corner.
Defender adopts flat triangle position in key.
Offense attempts flash cut to ball.
Defender must meet cutter in lane, bump the cutter and deny the pass
in the key, forcing the offense out to a less advantageous position low
in the opposite corner or high on top.
If offense gets ball, play one on one to basket (offense has no more
than two dribbles).
Rotate offense to defense.
Variations:
Reposition feeder (coach) and cutter to various parts of offensive half-court.
Points of Emphasis:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
Basketball Drill
Drill Number:
03
Name:
Chill Drill
Type:
Dribbling
Description:
Players line up at corner of the court and follow the path shown
in diagram to the right.
The following describes the desired path.
Dribbler starts at corner with ball in right hand.
1. At points A and B execute an inside-out move (fake
crossover).
2. At point C execute a reverse spin - now dribbling left hand.
3. Dribble to point D, then quickly retreat dribble back to point
E.
4. At point E, execute a quick, low crossover dribble and
dribble to point F - now dribbling right hand.
5. At point F execute a 180 degree half spin (fake reverse).
6. At point G execute a behind-the-back as you change
direction.
7. At point H execute a hesitation, stutter-step dribble and
explode to the basket for a lay-up.
Variations:
Go around the opposite direction (start at bottom left corner).
The other variations you can make to this drill are limited only by your imagination.
Points of Emphasis:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Basketball Drill
Drill Number:
04
Name:
Type:
Defense
Description:
Four players set up around three point line. Remaining players in line
underneath basket.
No ball is used in this drill.
X1 "closes out" player 1. Player 1 makes an offensive move (only one
step required, but direction should be varied) and X1 must drop step in
that direction and make one quick slide.
X1 then retreats back to basket and repeats action for the other three
players around three point line.
X2 can start and perform same action once X1 has finished with player
1.
Once X1 is back at start of line players 1-4 rotate (4 goes to Xs line and
X1 replaces player 1).
Variations:
Practice both "bunny hop" and "stutter step" close out methods.
Points of Emphasis:
1.
2.
3.
Basketball Drill
Drill Number:
05
Name:
Type:
Description:
Players are in groups of three.
The three players set up as shown in diagram A. Two players with balls are
about 3-4 steps apart and face third player who begins drill standing in front of
one of the other players.
Player 1 passes to player 3 who returns pass and then defensive shuffles in
front of player 2 (diagram A). Player 2 then passes to player 3 who returns
pass and then defensive shuffles back in front of player 1 (diagram B). This
sequence is repeated.
Run for specified time (e.g. 1 minute) and rotate players.
Variations:
1.
2.
Points of Emphasis:
1.
2.
Basketball Drill
Drill Number:
06
Name:
Fifty Passes
Type:
Description:
Split group into two teams (of equal ability).
Players use half-court.
Players are not allowed to dribble the ball.
Each team must try to complete fifty passes to win the game. Each team counts out loud as they complete each pass.
Possession always changes to other team when a violation (or dribble) occurs, or the ball is held or the ball goes out of
bounds (irrespective of who it came off when it went out).
When a team gets possession back they continue pass count from where they got to on last possession. First team to
fifty wins the game.
Variations:
None.
Points of Emphasis:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
Basketball Drill
Drill Number:
07
Name:
Type:
Passing
Description:
Players form five lines in a star alignment (see diagram).
Players in front of two lines have balls.
The players must pass to the player in the front of the line that is
next-but-one to them. They must then follow their pass to the end
of that line.
Instruct players to run to the far side of the line they are joining.
This creates more traffic for the next passer.
Variations:
1.
2.
3.
Points of Emphasis:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Basketball Drill
Drill Number:
08
Name:
Type:
Transition.
Description:
Offense lines up along baseline.
Defense lines up along free-throw line extended.
Coach passes ball to one of the offensive players and offensive
team go straight into offensive transition.
The defensive player guarding the offensive player who received
the ball must sprint and touch the baseline before joining the team
on defense.
Variations:
None.
Points of Emphasis:
1.
2.
3.
4.
Basketball Drill
Drill Number:
09
Name:
Type:
Transition
Description:
This drill starts of as a four on four half court scrimmage.
When the ball is rebounded by the defensive team, or a basket is scored the
defensive team move straight into offensive transition.
The original offense now go into defensive transition, but the player who took the
shot must run and touch the nearest baseline / sideline corner before sprinting
down court.
This gives the offense a four on three advantage until the shooter recovers.
Variations:
This drill can be played with three or five players on each team also.
Points of Emphasis:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Defensive team must sprint back past half-court catching up with any men
ahead of them, or turning and finding a man if they are behind you.
Communicate, communicate, communicate !
Closest man takes the ball - slow it down !
Get in front of the ball !
Offense - go at top speed and find the open man.
Basketball Drill
Drill Number:
10
Name:
Type:
Passing, Transition
Description:
Players get into four lines at baseline as shown in diagram.
Players progress the ball down the court by passing and moving in their lines only.
Note that to create traffic and make job harder, players in line 1 are passing across
to line 3 and back. Players in line 2 are passing to line 4 and back.
As players get to free-throw line extended at opposite end outside players cut to
basket for pass and lay-up.
Inside and outside players exchange lines and players return back down court in
similar fashion.
Variations:
For younger players you may decide to make it easier and remove the traffic option
and have players pass to lines next to them.
Alternatively, you might like to have lines 1 and 4 exchange longer passes and lines
2 & 3 exchanges shorter ones.
Points of Emphasis:
1.
2.
3.
Basketball Drill
Drill Number:
11
Name:
Type:
Transition, Lay-ups
Description:
Players make two lines (one under basket, one at right corner of court).
Players in centre line have ball each.
Player 1 (centre line) throws ball at backboard and rebounds. Player 2
(corner line) assumes outlet position.
Player 1 passes to player 2 who speed dribbles for a lay-up. Player 1 chases
in attempt to distract or block the lay-up.
At other end players swap roles and come back on the other side of the
court.
Variations:
1.
2.
See how few dribbles any pair can make for two baskets.
How many baskets can team make in certain time.
Points of Emphasis:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Basketball Drill
Drill Number:
12
Name:
Type:
Transition
Description:
Players form three lines at baseline.
A cone or chair is placed on court at opposite end on three-point line at freethrow line extended.
On way down court, player 1 sprints the lane and goes outside the cone and
cuts to the basket, timing run for pass from other two players who are passing
the ball down the court whilst running in their lanes (see diagram A). Player 1
scores with a lay-up.
Middle lane (player 2) rebounds the ball while outside players exchange
lanes. Player 3 runs outside the cone, and runs the outside lane looking for
pass from the other two players (see diagram B). Player 3 scores with a layup.
Players join end of a different line and drill continues.
Variations:
1.
2.
Points of Emphasis:
1.
2.
3.
4.
Basketball Drill
Drill Number:
13
Name:
Horseshoe Shooting
Type:
Description:
Players form two lines on baseline at either side of the key. The
first player in one line has a ball, the second player in the other line
has a ball. The coach stands on the middle of the free-throw line.
Player 2 (front of line without ball) makes a v-cut around the coach,
calling for the ball from player 1. Player 1 passes the ball to player
2 who shoots the basket and rebounds the ball. After taking the
rebound players pass to the front player in the opposite line
(opposite to where they came from). They then join the end of this
line.
After passing the ball, the player cuts around the coach as described
above and the drill continues.
Variations:
1.
2.
3.
Take a dribble after receiving the ball and shoot off the dribble.
Make a hard drive to the basket rather than the shot.
Add a shot fake before the shot.
Points of Emphasis:
1.
2.
3.
4.
Basketball Drill
Drill Number:
14
Name:
Knockout
Type:
Shooting
Description:
Players form line at free-throw line with first two players having a ball.
Players shoot their first shot from free-throw line and if they miss they
follow their shot and keep rebounding and shooting until they score.
Once the player in front of you has shot, you can begin in the same
fashion as described above. If the player behind you scores before you
do you are out of the game.
Once you score, rebound the ball and return to next player in line, then
return to end of line.
Last player left in wins the game.
Variations:
First shot from different position (e.g. 45 degrees, three-point line).
Points of Emphasis:
1.
2.
3.
4.
Basketball Drill
Drill Number:
15
Name:
Type:
Description:
Players make two lines. The lay-up line is well outside the three
point line towards the sideline. The rebound line is on the opposite
side of the court at about the three point line. The first person in the
lay-up line has a ball.
Players in lay-up line make hard drives to the basket for a lay-up.
Rebounder moves to basket anticipating rebound and takes strong
rebound.
Player who took lay-up moves to end of rebound line.
Rebounder takes two strong dribbles out, make a good pass to next
player in lay-up line and then move to the end of the lay-up line.
Variations:
1.
2.
3.
Points of Emphasis:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Basketball Drill
Drill Number:
16
Name:
Type:
Dribbling
Description:
For straight line drills players line up in four lines at baseline (see diagram
A).
Players dribble down the court, and at designated spots (e.g. free-throw line
extended, centre line), or on whistle, make one of the following designated
moves;
1. Change from speed dribble to control (protection) dribble.
2. Crossover.
3. Fake crossover (inside out).
4. Reverse dribble.
5. Stutter (hesitation) dribble.
For change of direction drills players line up in two lines near centre of
court. Players practice change of direction dribbles in a zig-zag pattern down
court (see diagram B). They can make one of the following designated
moves.
1. Crossover.
2. Behind the back.
3. Between the legs.
Variations:
Follow the leader - all players follow moves of designated player.
Points of Emphasis:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
Basketball Drill
Drill Number:
17
Name:
Type:
Description:
For straight line drills players line up in four lines at baseline (see diagram
A).
Players run down the court using one of the following designated running
styles,
1. Normal jog.
2. Heels high jog.
3. Knees high jog.
4. Grapevine.
In addition, at designated spots (e.g. free-throw line extended, centre line),
or on whistle, make one of the following designated moves,
1. Jump stop.
2. Stride stop.
3. Forward pivot.
4. Reverse pivot.
5. Stutter (hesitation) step.
For change of direction drills players line up in two lines near centre of
court. Players practice change of direction in a zig-zag pattern down court
(see diagram B).
Variations:
Follow the leader - all players follow moves of designated player.
Points of Emphasis:
1.
2.
3.
4.
Footwork.
Balance.
Stay low.
Explosive change of direction - plant the foot and push off.
Basketball Drill
Drill Number:
18
Name:
Type:
Description:
Players spread out on court facing the coach who is standing in front
of them.
The coach can use visual or audible cues to make the players do the
following;
1.
2.
3.
4.
Variations:
Have a player lead the others.
Points of Emphasis:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
Basketball Drill
Drill Number:
19
Name:
Mirror Drills
Type:
Defense
Description:
This drill is designed to allow the players to improve their defensive stance
and footwork.
It can be run in one of two ways.
1.
2.
Have players pair up and each pair chooses a line on the court.
One player moves laterally along the line whilst the other player (facing
them) attempts to stay in front of them (like "looking in a mirror").
Limit the number of steps to three before a change of direction or it will
just turn into a running race along the line.
After 30 seconds players swap roles (leader - follower).
Variations:
None.
Points of Emphasis:
1.
2.
Basketball Drill
Drill Number:
20
Name:
Type:
Motion Offense
Description:
These drills are designed to practice and teach the value of quick ball
reversal. We also teach the principle of having two receivers in position
when dribble penetration occurs into the key.
Drill A (diagram A) has three players one at each wing and one at point.
Players pass the ball point - wing - point - wing with each player vcutting and replacing themselves after they make each pass.
Diagram B shows the four areas we want our players to get to, to be
effective, threatening receivers when one of their team-mates dribble
penetrates into the key. Every time the ball is dribbled into the key we
want two of these spots filled. If the penetration is above the blocks it is
both low spots that should be filled. If penetration is below the block fill
one high spot and low spot opposite the penetration.
Diagram C shows the progression from drill A. After a certain number of
reversal passes coach shouts drive and ball-handler penetrates with their
dribble, other two offensive players must move to the receivers spots for
a pass off and score.
Diagram D shows another set-up for similar drill with defender X3
helping and being forced to close out after quick ball reversal. O3 fakes /
jabs and drives, O1 and O2 again must move to receivers spots.
Variations:
1.
2.
3.
Points of Emphasis:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
Basketball Drill
Drill Number:
21
Name:
Type:
Motion Offense
Description:
These drills are used to teach the v-cut, backdoor cut and leading
from the low post.
Diagram A shows v-cut.
Diagram B shows backdoor cut.
Diagram C shows leading from the post.
Variations:
1.
2.
3.
Points of Emphasis:
1) Offense
a) At least two steps to take defender away.
b) Plant foot - push of - change direction quickly.
c) Present target hand.
d) Catch and square up to the basket.
e) Read the defense - e.g. if overplayed go backdoor.
f) Leading from post - take player up lane, inside leg and
arm over in front of defender, once in front cut out to
receive ball.
g) Pass into path of cutter - don't make him stop.
2) Defense
a) Defensive stance.
b) Correct defensive footwork.
c) Deny stance.
d) Jump to ball on pass - not after pass made.
e) Snap head and arm on backdoor cut.
Basketball Drill
Drill Number:
22
Name:
Type:
Motion Offense
Description:
Here we try to teach the different options available after a dribble
entry to a wing.
Main teaching emphasis is on filling empty spots (recognising
space and what your teammates are doing).
Diagram A shows a backdoor cut by O2 as she is dribbled at. O3
fills point (defensive safety) and O2 fills weakside if she doesn't
get the pass. Run this drill with at least three return passes to new
point before allowing pass to cutter. Obviously point can pass to
either wing.
Diagram B shows post-up (button-hook) cut by O2. Again O3
fills point. Once defense is participating in drill, teach players to
read how O2 is defended in post. If she is not fronted pass her
the ball. If she is fronted pass to O3 at ballside elbow, O2 seals
and looks for pass from O3.
Diagram C shows O2 making shallow cut and filling point. O3
moves her defender but replaces herself.
Variations:
1.
2.
3.
Points of Emphasis:
1.
2.
3.
Moving to space.
Recognise teammates cuts.
Read defense.
Basketball Drill
Drill Number:
23
Name:
Type:
Motion Offense
Description:
These drills (along with many other variations) can be used to
teach and practice the give-and-go.
In diagram A, O1 at point passes to a v-cutting O2 on wing and
then cuts to basket.
In diagram B, O2 returns initial pass to O1 and runs backdoor cut
for give-and-go.
In diagram C, O1 is running a give-and-go off the high post.
Variations:
1.
2.
3.
Points of Emphasis:
1) Offense
a) Good cuts.
b) Try for ballside cut whenever defense allows - take
them away first to get ballside cut.
c) Target hand.
d) Bounce passes to cutter.
2) Defense
a) Defensive stance.
b) Correct defensive footwork.
c) Deny stance.
d) Jump to ball on pass - not after pass made.
e) Snap head and arm on backdoor cut.
Basketball Drill
Drill Number:
24
Name:
Type:
Motion Offense
Description:
Run these drills to teach players to recognise how post players are
defended and how to cut off posts.
In diagram A, pass is to high post, so wing O2 cuts low and O1 replaces
O2.
In diagram B, pass is to low post, so point O1 cuts and O2 replaces O1.
In diagram C, post defense is allowing pass to post so we make it.
In diagram D, post defense is fronting so we pass to O1 cutting to
ballside elbow, post seals and we look for high-low pass.
Variations:
1.
2.
Start 3 on 0, progress to 3 on 3.
Start with token defense progressing to full 3 on 3.
Points of Emphasis:
1.
2.
Recognise space.
Recognise open man.
Basketball Drill
Drill Number:
25
Name:
Type:
Motion Offense
Description:
Here we teach two post players to work together.
We also teach defense on posts.
Diagram A, when pass is to high post, low post seals and looks for pass
and basket.
Diagram B, when pass is to low post, high post shows and then cuts to
basket looking for pass from low post and basket.
Diagram C shows a good drill I use where we have two posts and two
post defenders. Remainder of squad passes ball around key looking for
posts to make good position and they then pass to posts who go 2 on 2.
Diagram D shows a good two-passers to two posts drill. Posts set a screen
and roll on cross screen and both screener and roller get pass for a basket.
Variations:
1.
2.
3.
4.
Start 3 on 0, progress to 3 on 3.
Start with token defense progressing to full 3 on 3.
Run from both sides of floor.
Various cuts off screens.
Points of Emphasis:
1) Offense.
a) Recognise how your partner is defended.
b) Remember to move without the ball - correctly.
c) Present a target when you want the ball by holding hand up and
yelling for ball. Drop hand and stop yelling one second before
moving (e.g. to screen or relocate). This way you won't get hit in
the head by a pass from a teammate.
d) Jump stop as you receive the ball in the post - option of either
foot as pivot foot.
e) Receiving the ball, remember the 3 C's. Catch, Chin (the ball,
protect with extended elbows) and Check your defender.
2) Defense.
a) Side-front high when ball is high.
b) Side-front low when ball is low.
c) Correct footwork in front of post to move between two stances.
Basketball Drill
Drill Number:
26
Name:
Type:
Motion Offense
Description:
These drills teach the screen and roll.
Point O1 passes to wing O2 and sets screen on O2s defender. O2
reads defense and drives off screen. O1 rolls to basket.
Variations:
Start 2 on 0, progressing to 2 on 2.
Start with token defense, move to full 2 on 2.
Points of Emphasis:
1) Offense.
a) Cutter must wait for screener to set.
b) Screener must set wide, low, balanced screen, arms in,
make contact with defense.
c) Cutter uses screen - brush shoulders.
d) Drive hard, penetrate - look to score.
e) Screener rolls - see ball rule.
2) Defense.
a) Screeners defender must show numbers and recover.
b) Cutters defender must fight over top of screen (hips and
leg over).
Basketball Drill
Drill Number:
27
Name:
Type:
Motion Offense
Description:
These drills show how to begin teaching the screen away from the
ball.
Diagram A shows point O1 passing to wing O2 and then setting
screen weakside for O3.
Diagram B shows O3 cutting off screen and O1 rolling to basket.
Diagram C shows a modification to B where an extra passer is
inserted to give both screener and cutter a pass and score.
Variations:
Start drills 3 on 0 and progress to 3 on 3.
Start drills with token defense and move to full 3 on 3.
Points of Emphasis:
1) The player who is setting the screen should remember to,
a) Keep your feet shoulder width apart, bend your knees and
take up a strong balanced position.
b) Hold your arms strongly across your chest to protect
yourself.
c) Expect contact - you want the defender to run into you !
d) Make sure your body is positioned "square" to the
direction you are trying to screen.
e) Make sure the defender is in the middle of your body.
f) Remember to call your team-mate so she knows you are
screening. Remember the raised "fist".
g) You must not push the defender.
h) You must remain stationary, and in your "cylinder".
i) Once the "cutter" has gone, "roll" to the basket.
2) The player who is cutting off the screen should remember to,
a) Don't cut too soon. You must wait for the screener to have
set the screen properly and to be stationary.
b) Fake in the opposite direction that you are going to cut to
put the defender off balance.
c) Cut close to the screener ! Brush shoulders with them. If
you leave a gap the defender may get through it !
d) "Read" the defense and make your move accordingly.
i) If the screener does a good job and the defender is run
right into the screen, the cutter should make a tight
cut, close to the screener, into the lane looking for a
pass.
ii) If the defender gets between the screener and the
cutter (fights over the top of the screen), the cutter
can go back door looking for the pass. The screener
should turn (face the basket) to block the defender.
iii) If the defender chooses to go behind the screener, the cutter pops out for an easy pass (and possibly a 3point shot). Again the screener can turn to block the defender.
3) Correct screening angles.
a) Down screen - back to ball, b) Up screen - back to baseline corner, c) Back screen - back to basket, d) Cross
screen - back to ballside elbow.
Greenvale Basketball Club Inc. (A0025777N)
Basketball Drill
Drill Number:
28
Name:
Mushball
Type:
Description:
Players line up as shown in diagram A. One player is in each of the
low free-throw lane positions. The remaining players line up at the
free-throw line with the first person in line with a ball.
The shooter shoots free-throws until she misses, scoring one point
for each made shot.
Free-throw lane rules must be adhered to;
players in the lane cannot cross line until ball leaves shooters
hand.
shooter cannot cross free-throw line until ball hits ring.
On a miss all three players play to score. That is, the person who
rebounds is on offense, the other two are on defense.
A field goal from this 1 on 2 contest is worth two points.
Players cannot go further than one step outside key.
Play continues until a field goal is scored, the ball leaves the field
of play (i.e. one step outside of key), a violation occurs or the ball
is held. Then players rotate. The rotation sequence is shown in
diagram B.
Encourage strong moves to the basket, through the defense. There
are no fouls (other than flagrant ones) in mushball.
Variations:
1.
2.
3.
Points of Emphasis:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
Basketball Drill
Drill Number:
29
Name:
One On One
Type:
Description:
Players are in groups of three. Player 1 is passer, player 2 is offense,
X2 is defense.
Player 2 gets open (V-cut, back cut, lead from post etc.), player 1
makes pass. X2 plays defense (deny pass, play defense one-on-one).
Offense must always square up and assume triple threat position when
receiving on perimeter.
Offense can use any offensive move, or might be instructed to use
certain one by coach. These might include,
a) Catch, face and shoot.
b) Jab step and shoot.
c) Jab step, shot fake and shoot.
d) Jab step and strong side drive into jump shot off dribble.
e) Jab step and crossover drive into jump shot off dribble.
f) Jab step and strong side drive into power layup.
g) Jab step and crossover drive into power layup.
Players rotate X2 becomes passer, 2 becomes defense, 1 becomes offense.
Can have two groups at each basket.
Variations:
1.
2.
3.
Points of Emphasis:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Basketball Drill
Drill Number:
30
Name:
Type:
Offense
Description:
Players operate in groups of three. One player is passer, one is
rebounder (starts with ball), the other is shooter.
Rebounder passes to passer, passer passes to shooter, shooter shoots,
rebounder rebounds and sequence is repeated.
Variations:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Run drill for certain time (say 1 minute) and rotate players.
Rotate every shot.
Shooter must dribble to right or left and shoot.
Shooter must relocate every shot.
Passer and shooter give shot fake, jab step etc. before pass or shot.
Points of Emphasis:
1.
2.
3.
4.
Basketball Drill
Drill Number:
31
Name:
Type:
Description:
Players are in pairs. Player 1 is on perimeter in shooting range,
player 2 is under basket with ball.
Player 2 passes to player 1. Player 1 takes one strong dribble either
side into a shot. Player 2 as soon as they pass the ball is closing out,
trying to pressure the shot and boxing out once the shot is made.
Both players go for the rebound. If offense gets the rebound they
should try and score.
Player that gets the rebound is offense on next repetition.
Variations:
Use different parts of the floor.
Have 2-3 pairs at each basket and use as many baskets as you have.
Points of Emphasis:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
Basketball Drill
Drill Number:
32
Name:
Type:
Offense
Description:
This drill is designed to teach the skills of dribble penetration
into the key and passing the ball of to a teammate who have
placed themselves in a good position.
The drill can be run from a 3 on 2 set (see diagram A & B), and
can be run with the dribble penetration coming from any area of
the offensive court (e.g. diagram A shows penetration from the
point, diagram B shows penetration from the wing).
Diagram C shows one of the possible sets when running the
drill 4 on 3.
Have the penetrating dribbler undefended with a defender on
each of the other offensive players.
Dribble penetration should "split" two of the defenders.
Receivers must read their defender and cut to an advantageous
position. Dribbler should pass to best option but can continue
drive to basket if defense sag off.
Variations:
1.
2.
3 on 2, 4 on 3 or 5 on 4.
Run from all parts of floor.
Points of Emphasis:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
Basketball Drill
Drill Number:
33
Name:
Pepper Drill
Type:
Passing / receiving
Description:
Players form a semi-circle around one of the players.
Note that the player in the middle is a step inside the circle - this
ensures she has to use her peripheral vision to see the players on the
ends of the semi-circle.
The player in the middle and the player on one end each have a ball.
Player 1 passes to player 3 and then receives the pass from player 2.
Player 1 passes to player 4 and then receives the pass from player 3.
The play continues like this, and then returns in the opposite direction
around the circle.
Players then rotate so each has a turn as the middle passer.
Variations:
1.
2.
3.
Points of Emphasis:
1.
2.
3.
Basketball Drill
Drill Number:
34
Name:
Type:
Passing, Defense
Description:
Players are in groups of three.
Players 1 and 2 stand about 3-4 metres apart with third player in between. They must make passes to
each other while X1 attempts to get a hand on the ball.
X1 must play aggressive defense on ball handler, rather than sagging off.
As soon as X1 gets hand on ball he swaps position with the passer.
Variations:
Place time limit on passer (e.g. X1 counts to 3 seconds) and passer must pass the ball before time
expires.
Points of Emphasis:
1.
2.
3.
Basketball Drill
Drill Number:
35
Name:
Type:
Pivoting, Offense
Description:
Players form three lines at centre line.
Player in middle line receives pass from coach at free-throw line and
one player from each of the other lines follow to play defense.
Player 1 with ball must keep ball away from the two defenders for 5
seconds by pivoting and ball movement. The end of the five second
count is announced by the coach and the player tries to split the
defenders and make a drive to basket.
Players return to a different line.
Variations:
After 5 second count player passes to coach.
Points of Emphasis:
1.
2.
3.
4.
Basketball Drill
Drill Number:
36
Name:
Post Moves
Type:
Description:
Players are in groups of three. Player 1 is perimeter passer, player 5 is
offensive post, X5 is defensive post.
Player 5 posts up looking for pass from player 1.
Player 1 can dribble from wing to corner and back along three point
line.
Post should attempt to post-up strong or seal defender if possible.
Upon receiving pass, post reads defense and makes appropriate move.
This could include,
a) Drop-step baseline into power lay-up.
b) Drop-step middle into baby hook.
c) Turn and face, bank shot.
d) Turn and face, drive middle.
e) Turn and face, up and under (crossover into power lay-up).
Post can pass back out if a good shot isn't available.
Players rotate X5 becomes perimeter passer, post offense becomes post defense, perimeter passer becomes post
offense.
Use two groups at each basket.
Variations:
Token defense only for beginners (coach may instruct defender to overplay one side for offense to practice certain
moves).
Points of Emphasis:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
Basketball Drill
Drill Number:
37
Name:
Type:
Power lay-ups
Description:
Two balls are placed on the low blocks.
One player is the post shooter, two other players are to rebound balls
and place them back on the low blocks after each shot.
Post shooter starts in middle of lane and alternately picks up each ball
off low block and makes post move to the basket (maximum of one
power dribble allowed).
Players rotate positions after specified time.
Variations:
Specify types of move to be made (e.g. drop-step baseline into power
lay-up, drop-step middle into baby hook etc.).
Most baskets in certain time (e.g. one minute).
Points of Emphasis:
1.
2.
3.
4.
Work hard.
Concentrate on footwork.
Get body parallel to backboard for power lay-ups.
Put the ball up strong with two hands well above the ring.
Basketball Drill
Drill Number:
38
Name:
Pride Drill
Type:
Transition, Conditioning
Description:
Drill starts with a five on zero offensive transition and score.
On score, all players sprint to defensive positions and get into defensive stance and
execute "foot-fire" or defensive "pitter-patter" until coach passes one of them the
ball when they return to offensive transition and repeat.
After two repetitions swap out to new team or bring in fresh players.
Variations:
Coach might award points for correct execution, hustle and effort. Players do drill
until certain points score is reached.
Points of Emphasis:
1.
2.
Basketball Drill
Drill Number:
39
Name:
Shell Drill
Type:
Team Defense
Description:
Four players assume offensive positions at guard and wing or
corner positions. Four players assume defensive positions based
on the following rules,
a) If your man has the ball play him - push to sideline, no
penetration.
b) If your man is one pass away - play deny stance in passing
lane.
c) If your man is two passes away - play in the key in help
position.
d) If your man is more than two passes away - play on the split
line in help position.
On ball movement all defensive players move to correct position.
On receiving pass offense must always catch and face.
When first teaching shell drill have offense hold ball for twosecond count before passing.
Rotate offense to defense.
Variations:
The shell drill should be run in the following progression. Build
up to latter stages over number of sessions.
a) Stationary offense - defense allow passes. This stage is so
defenders get used to movement into correct positions.
b) Offense move (v-cuts and replace only) - defense allow
passes.
c) Offense move (v-cuts and replace only) - deny passes.
d) Allow penetration only - defensive help.
e) Allow offense to exchange positions.
f) Allow screens.
g) Live four-on-four.
Depending upon the defensive emphasis you may want high defenders to sag and guard against penetration rather than
denying pass.
Points of Emphasis:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Jump to the ball - as pass is made - not once it gets there - "fly with the ball".
See the ball and your man - point your pistols.
Stance, stance, stance, stance - low, low, low, low. Must be lower than the player you are guarding.
Correct footwork - slides, drop step, close-outs.
Three main jobs are pressure on pass or shot, stop penetration, help your team-mates.
Basketball Drill
Drill Number:
40
Name:
Type:
Defense
Description:
Players start at baseline facing out of court in defensive stance.
Players are playing against an "imaginary opponent" initially.
They begin by defensive sliding two or three steps then pretend they have been
beaten and move to a run (sprint) to catch up, then return to defensive stance /
slide, then repeat to other end of court.
Variations:
1.
2.
3.
Points of Emphasis:
1.
2.
3.
Basketball Drill
Drill Number:
41
Name:
Star Drill
Type:
Description:
Players line up as shown in diagram. Two players (3 & 4) are a step
off each low free-throw lane position, two players (2 & 5) are a step
off each elbow. The remaining players line up behind the baseline,
the first person in line with a ball.
Player 1 passes to player 2 and follows her pass (taking 2's position).
Player 2 passes to player 3 and follows her pass.
Player 3 passes to player 4 and follows her pass.
Player 4 passes to player 5 and follows her pass.
Player 5 drives hard to the basket for lay-up, only one dribble (two
for beginners) allowed.
Players rebound own shots and hand-off ball to next player in line,
then move to the end of the line.
Drill continues in same manner.
Variations:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Points of Emphasis:
1.
2.
3.
4.
Basketball Drill
Drill Number:
42
Name:
Ten Fingers
Type:
Description:
Players form two lines outside three-point line. All players,
except for first in each line have a ball.
First players in each line run into key and v-cut back to ball.
Players "show ten fingers" and call to receive ball from next
player in line. After receiving pass they square up to basket and
either shoot, dribble / drive for lay-up or dribble into jump shot.
Passer can repeat move once shooter has gone to basket or shot
the ball.
Players rebound their own balls and dribble back up court to end
of lines. They are coming back through subsequent pairs who are
completing drill (creating traffic).
Variations:
If full-court available, have players dribble to opposite end for a
lay-up before they return to lines.
Points of Emphasis:
1.
2.
3.
Plant foot and push off hard for good change of direction on
cut.
Showing "ten fingers" and calling for ball.
Catch and face into triple threat.
Basketball Drill
Drill Number:
43
Name:
Terminator
Type:
Dribbling
Description:
Vary the court space used depending upon the size of your group. For a group of eight to ten start off within the threepoint line and baseline.
Each player has a ball and must dribble continuously within the designated area whilst trying to knock away the ball
from other players.
Any player who cannot maintain their dribble or goes outside of the designated area is out and should step out of the
designated area.
As number of players reduces further restrict the playing area (e.g. key, circle, top half of circle).
Last player left wins.
Variations:
Players only use weak hand to dribble.
Points of Emphasis:
1.
2.
3.
Head up !
Correct dribbling technique - fingertip control - use the wrist - push the ball to the floor.
Low dribbling stance - protection stance.
Basketball Drill
Drill Number:
44
Name:
Type:
Transition
Description:
Two players assume "tandem" defensive position at one end, all
other players form 3 lines at baseline at opposite end. Player in
middle line has ball.
Three players (first in each line) bring ball down court to play 3
on 2 versus the two defenders.
As soon as defenders get ball, or a score is made, the two
defenders play 2 on 1 in the opposite direction against either,
a) the shooter, in the case a shot was just taken (made or
missed), or,
b) the person who turned over the ball, in the case an
interception was made, or violation occurred.
The other two offense remain to be defense for next three
players.
Variations:
1.
2.
3.
Points of Emphasis:
1) Run lanes hard, cut to basket at free-throw line extended.
2) Sprint.
3) Correct defensive play of 3 on 2 situation, that is,
a) tandem alignment,
b) front defender takes ball,
c) rear defender takes first pass and front player drops.
4) Correct offensive play of 3 on 2 situation, that is
a) outside players stay wide and cut to basket,
b) ball-handler draw front defender
c) ball-handler make good pass to most open player and
cut to ball-side elbow
5) Driving lane, passing lane concept.
6) Communicate (both offense and defense).
7) Take the ball to the basket hard.
8) On turnover get straight into offensive transition.
9) On made shot, step out of court and get in-bound pass in quickly, straight into offensive transition.
Basketball Drill
Drill Number:
45
Name:
Three-Man Weave
Type:
Description:
Players form three lines at baseline. Player in middle line has ball.
Ball is passed in a weave pattern up the court. Players cut behind the person they
have passed to (see diagram).
Player who receives ball near edge of offensive key makes a hard drive to basket.
The other two players form a rebounding triangle and any missed shots are put back
after the rebound.
After the made basket, the ball is grabbed, the player steps out of bounds and the
drill is repeated back down the court.
Variations:
1.
2.
Players can wait at end of court (rather than coming back) for rest of players in
line to come down court and then all take in turns to come back in opposite
direction. This way, the next three players can start when the previous three
cross halfway.
Specify the types of passes to be made.
Points of Emphasis:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
Basketball Drill
Drill Number:
46
Name:
Type:
Description:
Players in pairs, using both sides of the court.
One player in pair is on defense, she steps onto court with ball and hands offensive
player the ball.
Each pair must stay on own side of the court.
Using good defensive stance and footwork to gain correct position, defensive
attempts to turn the dribbler at least three times in the back court and then attempts
to channel offensive player to the sideline in the front court.
Upon reaching end of court, both players sprint back to other end and rejoin line.
Next time down, offense and defense swap places.
Swap groups to opposite sides of court halfway through allotted time.
Variations:
1.
2.
3.
Points of Emphasis:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Basketball Drill
Drill Number:
47
Name:
Type:
Defense
Description:
Players line up, in two teams, along sideline as shown in diagram.
Alternately, each team slides across floor in a line and returns. When
one team returns, other team goes.
To emphasize keeping low and defensive stance, players touch hands to
floor between their legs 5 times and yell "defense" (at start, at opposite
sideline, twice at mid-court - once on the way and once on the way
back- and on return).
Players complete 180 degree pivot each time they cross split line.
Variations:
After a couple of repetitions, have players
1. Jump in air before touching floor.
2. Sprint from opposite sideline to mid-court on return leg.
3. Close-out from mid-court to opposite sideline.
Points of Emphasis:
1.
2.
3.
Basketball Drill
Drill Number:
48
Name:
Cincinatti
Type:
Description:
Players form two lines at half-court. One line in centre of court,
the other near one sideline. One player is on free-throw line. First
player in line at centre court must have ball.
First player in centre line (2), passes to player at free-throw line
(1) whilst first player in side line (3) sprints the outside lane.
After receiving the pass, player (1) pivots and passes to (3)
cutting to the basket. (3) receives pass and performs a lay-up.
(3) continues out opposite side of court while (1) rebounds the
ball and outlets to (3) who takes one or two dribbles and passes to
the next player in centre line who doesn't have a ball.
(3) goes to end of centre line, (1) goes to end of side line and (2)
moves down to free-throw line to pass / rebound on next rotation.
Variations:
1.
2.
Points of Emphasis:
1.
2.
3.
Basketball Drill
Drill Number:
49
Name:
Create A Lead
Type:
Offense
Description:
Players form four lines, two at each corner and two at halfcourt. First players in half-court lines have a ball.
Players in corner lines move to low post area and then "create a
lead" (using the inside leg / inside arm technique).
After receiving the pass they face-up to the basket and make a
one on one move to the basket.
Players rotate lines clockwise so all players get a turn at passing
and receiving from both sides of the court.
Variations:
1.
2.
Points of Emphasis:
1.
2.
3.
4.
Basketball Drill
Drill Number:
50
Name:
Type:
Offense
Description:
One player sets up on each low block. The remaining players line up
at half-court. This line of players is behind coach who is standing on
edge of centre circle, facing the basket.
Players in line dribble past the coach executing a stated move
(hesitation, crossover, reverse etc.) as they pass the coach.
After the dribbler is past the coach, the coach signals to post players
that one of them is to v-cut by holding out his left or right arm, or by
establishing eye contact. Note this is not done until dribbler is past so
he cannot see signal.
Nominated player executes a good v-cut and receives pass from
dribbler. Player then makes move to basket (dribble to jump shot,
drive for lay-up etc.).
Dribbler replaces post player who received pass. Post player who
received pass goes to end of line.
Variations:
Have other post player close out on receiver and play defence.
Points of Emphasis:
1.
2.
3.
4.
Basketball Drill
Drill Number:
51
Name:
Type:
Passing, Lay-ups
Description:
Set up with three lines at half-court as shown in diagram.
Ball start at one side.
As middle line player cuts to ball, opposite wing sprints lane and cuts
to basket.
A pass to middle player at the top of the circle is followed by a pass to
cutter for a lay-up.
All players follow shot to form "rebounding triangle".
Missed lay-ups must be "put back".
Variations:
1.
2.
Points of Emphasis:
1.
2.
Basketball Drill
Drill Number:
52
Name:
Triangle Passing
Type:
Passing, Receiving
Description:
Players use half-court and form three lines. Two lines are at the
half-court corners and the third is under the basket.
Players pass to player in next line, who is moving to the ball.
Players then move to the end of the line they have just passed to.
Variations:
1.
2.
3.
Points of Emphasis:
Move to the ball to receive pass.
Show "ten fingers" and call passers name.
Sprint to the end of the line after passing.
Basketball Drill
Drill Number:
53
Name:
Triangle Shooting
Type:
Shooting
Description:
Players form three lines around basket.
Players shoot and rebound their shots, pass to next in their line and
return to end of line.
Rotate positions.
Variations:
1.
2.
Points of Emphasis:
1.
2.