The dribble handoff is an offensive tactic in basketball. Using it properly can confuse and disrupt the defense. If executed poorly, however, the dribble handoff can result in an easy turnover. Regular practice can make this play an extremely effective tool in a basketball game. Overuse, however, can hurt a team, as the opposition learns how to defend it better each time.
Basics
A player dribbles toward his teammate, with the basketball in his outside hand. The receiving player runs toward his teammate. As they move past each other, the player with the ball hands it off to his teammate.
Execution
There are different ways to execute the dribble handoff. The player can jump stop and hand the ball off to his teammate. From there, that player can set a pick and roll to the basket or move to a specific spot on the basketball court. The player can also hand the ball off and continue running. From there, that player can move to a specific spot on the floor or cut to the basket, similar to a give-and-go. The receiving player has the same options as the one who starts the play with the ball in his hands. He can receive the ball and continue dribbling toward the basket or to a particular spot. He can also stop when he receives the ball and either pull up for a shot or pass to an open teammate. There is no set rule on how to execute the dribble handoff, but different options to choose from.
Rules
One of the main rules that cannot be overlooked when performing a dribble handoff is when to use it. In any zone defense, regardless of structure of set-up, each player is responsible for guarding a particular part of the court. A dribble handoff would be ineffective and useless. When a team is playing a man-to-man defense, though, each player is sticking close to one specific opponent. A dribble handoff is ideal in this situation. The defenders are forced to decide whether to switch off or stay with their men. In addition, dribbling rules are easy to violate during the dribble handoff. It is relatively simple to lose control of the basketball during the exchange, so a travel, carry or double dribble is common. Always dribble with confidence and purpose, making sure to read the defense and adapt accordingly.
Member Comments