Basketball practice time is valuable. During games, it's all about competing and doing whatever is possible to win. During practice time, players can work on individual skills and drills to improve at the game and become more effective players. A coach has the chance to slow down the action at practice and point out what the player did wrong and correct it.
Sprint-and-Shoot Drill
This drill is designed to help players arrive at a shooting position after going full speed to get away from a defender. Start at the far free-throw line and jog to midcourt. When you reach midcourt, sprint to the elbow next to the free-throw line. When you hit that spot, your teammate or coach will fire you a pass. Set your feet, look at the front rim, elevate and shoot. Do not stand with the ball in your hand. Go up as fast as you can to promote a quick release on your jump shot. Do this five times, take a 30-second break and then repeat the drill.
Gladiator Drill
This is a ball-handling drill that requires the dribbler to stay low and move quickly. Pair up four sets of teammates and have them stand about 8 to 10 feet from each other. Have each pair pass a basketball back and forth at moderate speed. Have the ball handler stand to the right of the first pair and midway between each set of partners. On the coach's signal, he will dribble between the passing teammates, getting low enough that he will not get hit by the ball. Have each player in the drill take the spot of the dribbler and move through the gauntlet.
2-on-1 Defensive Drill
In this drill, the defensive player will rely on hustle, determination and positioning to stop two offensive teammates. The point guard will dribble the ball across midcourt and into a position to attack the basket. The defensive player will try to prevent a made basket by stealing the ball, forcing a turnover, blocking a shot or getting a rebound. The point guard and his teammate will try to work the ball and get an open shot. The offensive players must pass the ball at least three times before shooting. To be successful, the defensive player should force three misses in every 10 possessions.
Member Comments