Basketball handling includes dribbling, catching, and passing the basketball. Handling the ball requires precision, quick decision-making, and nimble hands. Coaches often use ball-handling and passing drills in practice to help players learn how to keep control of the ball, dribble through and around the defense, and pass or receive the ball without losing control.
Basic Dribble Drill
For newer players learning how to dribble effectively, a basic dribble drill can help develop the skills needed to handle the ball without turning it over. This drill emphasizes players being able to dribble without looking at the ball, and change hands and directions while dribbling. Have players line up in two lines on the baseline, on either side of the free-throw lane. The first player in each line takes a ball and dribbles diagonally toward the sideline using the outside hand. Make sure players are looking up, not down at the ball, as they dribble. When they reach the sideline, have them switch to dribbling with the left or inside hand, and dribble to the middle of the court, then switch hands again and dribble to the sideline. Have them continue this pattern all the way down the floor and back. You can make it a competition by seeing which line can get its all players through the entire drill first. Players who lose control of the ball must go back to the baseline and start over.
Individual Dribble Drills
Have each player take a ball and practice several individual dribbling drills. The figure-8 helps players develop the skill of dribbling the ball between the legs, which can be helpful for changing directions quickly. Give each player a ball, and have them stand with their legs more than shoulder-width apart. Have them dribble the ball with their right hand between their legs, catching it with the left hand behind their back, then push the ball forward and through the legs again, catching it with the right hand in a figure-8 motion.
The crab dribble is another drill that helps players develop quick hands. For this drill, players will need to bend their knees, spread their legs, and get low to the ground. Have them start a dribble between their feet with the right hand. They should keep the dribble going by bouncing the ball with the left hand in front of them, then with the right hand behind their right leg, then with the left hand behind the left leg, and so on in succession.
Three-Person Passing Drill
Players must learn to handle the ball on the run without dropping it or traveling, so run them through this downcourt passing drill. Make three lines of players on the baseline, spaced about 12 feet apart. The player on the left starts with the ball as all three players run down the court. Players must pass the ball between each other without dribbling or traveling as they run down the court and back. Players may not skip over the middle player, and each player must receive at least two passes each time down the court.
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