While some players have flashy ball-handling moves that don't get them anywhere, the through-the-legs crossover dribble is an important skill every basketball player needs to have. Ball handling is just as important to the game of basketball as shooting or passing, as a team that cannot keep control of the ball will have difficulty being successful. The under-the-legs dribble is an effective way to change direction on an opponent while protecting the ball at the same time.
Step 1
Stand with your feet slightly staggered. Your legs should be open wide enough for you to pass the ball through. The foot on the side of your body where you are holding the ball is placed behind the ball. If you are a beginner, avoid wearing shorts that are too baggy, which could prevent you from cleanly passing the ball through your legs.
Step 2
Pass the ball from one hand to the other, so that the ball bounces directly underneath your body. If the ball bounces too far from your body on either side, it will either clip your legs or be too difficult to corral. Try to keep the ball as low as possible while still maintaining your dribble to make it difficult for the defense to steal the ball.
Step 3
Cushion the ball with your receiving hand, catching the ball on your fingertips so you can continue your dribble. If possible, try to catch the ball closer to your hip so that a defender would have to reach all the way across your body to poke the ball free, likely committing a foul in the process.
Tips and Warnings
- Practice standing still first. After you get good at crossing it through your legs while standing, you can progress to walking and then jogging.
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