Whether you want to create separation between you and your defender or blow by him for an easy path to the basket, being able to handle the ball effectively is one of the keys to a great personal offensive game. Once you've mastered the basics of handling the ball, you can move on to more advanced drills that will leave your opponents in the dust and you on your way to the rim for a score.
Crossover Drill
The crossover is an advanced dribbling technique used to fake out your opponent in order to create separation or get him off balance so you can dribble past him. Grab a ball and try a simple crossover drill by standing at the baseline. Dribble forward and, after three or four steps, make a fake to your right with your body and the ball, then cross the ball over in front of you to your other hand. Dribble forward again for two or three steps, then cross the ball back over to your right side. Repeat this drill all the way up the floor and back. Once you have gotten a handle on the crossover, increase your speed until you can do the drill at full game speed.
Catch-Catch Drill
If you want superior handles, you'll have to learn how to catch and control the ball under any circumstance. The catch-catch drill helps you develop those skills. Stand with your feet more than shoulder-width apart, with your knees bent. Hold a ball between your legs so your right arm is in front of your right leg and your left arm is behind your left leg. Let go of the ball and swiftly switch your arms so your right arm is behind your right leg and your left arm is now in front of your left leg, catching the ball at the end of the movement. Repeat this motion five to six times without letting the ball drop.
Two-Ball Drill
If you've mastered the art of dribbling with one hand, it's time to make sure you've got the same level of skills with your off-hand, in case the defense forces you to use it during the game. To help develop your off-hand, try a two-ball drill. Grab two basketballs and start dribbling them at the same time. Alternate between dribbling them in the same motion -- with them both bouncing on the floor at the same time -- and with them bouncing at alternate times. Start walking while dribbling both balls and alternating. If you're really looking for an advanced drill, practice crossing over both balls at the same time without dropping them or allowing them to hit each other.
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