Basketball Drills for Coaches: 55 Expert Training Videos

 

Welcome to our basketball drills guide! This is the ultimate resource for basketball coaches and players of all levels. In this guide, we will teach you how to improve your basketball skills through a variety of drills.

This post will feature 55 different basketball drills (with videos) from a number of expert coaches and trainers. With this list of basketball drills, you can find the perfect basketball shooting drills, basketball dribbling drills, and many other drill-related topics.  

Whether you are a beginner or an experienced player or basketball coach, we have something for you! We will cover everything from shooting drills to defensive drills and everything in between.

So whether you are looking to take your game to the next level or just want to brush up on your skills, keep reading for the best basketball drills out there!

 

If you want to skip down to a specific category of basketball drill, please use the below table of contents.

• Basketball Competition Drills (3 Videos)
• Defensive Basketball Drills (2 Videos)
• Basketball Dribbling Drills (12 Videos)
• Finishing Basketball Drills (8 Videos)
• Basketball Fundamentals (3 Videos)
• Passing Basketball Drills (4 Videos)
• Basketball Post Move Drills (5 Videos)
• Rebounding Basketball Drills (5 Videos)
• Basketball Shooting Drills (10 Videos)
• Team Basketball Drills (3 Videos)

 

 

Basketball Drills for Coaches

One of the most critical things in player development in basketball is finding the right drills for your players. You want the drill to challenge the player but not be so complicated that they can’t do it. Another challenge is also finding new content to keep your players motivated and interested when training. Our library of basketball drills solves both of those problems. All of these training videos will allow you to find what best fits your players and will also be able to keep the material fresh.

Regardless of your expertise in training as well, these drills are a must. If you are new to coaching basketball, you have a blank canvas to work with. If you have been coaching for a while, you will be able to find the drills that best fit your style. With drills from professional coaches and college coaches from schools like Florida, Georgetown, and USC, all training videos will provide expert content.

 

Maximizing These Basketball Drills

When it comes to skill development in basketball, it is like most jobs. It is all about having access to the right tools. That is why all of these basketball drills exist. They are here for basketball coaches, trainer, and players that need the right tools. Each section is going to represent a different tool.

As a basketball coach or trainer who evaluates players and sees a weakness in a player’s game, you will grab the drills that you need to fix that weakness. As a basketball player, you will be able to evaluate yourself and then use the same drills to become a complete player on your own.

If you are serious about basketball skill development, take advantage of these resources. Use the knowledge and expertise that our instructors have provided, and get where you want with your basketball goals.

 

 

 

 

Basketball Competition Drills

These basketball competition drills are modeled after some of the biggest and most competitive games in the world. They place an extreme importance on getting every last ounce out of each player. In these drills, heart and energy will be at a premium as these are the two areas that will be focused on the most.

size, skill, and athleticism will all be tested, but the biggest emphasis will be on fight and heart. This is what separates basketball teams at the highest level, and these are the types of drills that will get your team to that level. Players who are already naturally competitive will thrive in these types of drills, but it is also something that can be worked on as well.

The right team culture can make it infectious from one player to another. These basketball competition drills are some of the best in the business at getting everyone to compete at a high level.

 

 

Drill #1

Bulldog Basketball Rebounding Drill

 

 

This is a great basketball drill to work on becoming a great rebounder, but also just learning to compete and fight for rebounds and finishing in the paint. Working on technique for different skills is a must for developing players, but it is also important that you spend time simply working on competing. When both of these areas come together, you can create players that can dominate.

Rebounding basketball drills like this will create an environment that promotes competition. It will teach your players to fight and battle even if they are outmatched or out maned. They will be able to apply the correct rebounding techniques, but they will also have the mental mindset and toughness to fight for every board. Along with this being a great drill for working on competition, rebounding, and finishing, it is also a good defensive basketball drill because it will teach your players to be able to wall up in the post and fight for position.

 

 

Basketball Drill Overview

Drill Name: Bulldog Basketball Rebounding Drill

Equipment Needed: 1 basketball, a coach, and 3 players.

 

Goals of the Drill

• Work on competing for offensive rebounds and then finishing in traffic.

 

Coaching Points

• Fight for position and anticipate where the rebound is going to go.
• Know when to quick finish or power finish.
• The defense can work on walling up and practicing good defensive habits as well.

 

Basketball Drill Instructions

• The basketball drill is going to start with all three players in the paint.
• Every player is for themselves.
• When the shot goes up, everyone is trying to offensive rebound.
• The basketball is live until one of the three players scores.
• So if a player gets a rebound misses the putback, the ball is still live and is treated as an offensive rebound.
• You have to score from inside the paint.
• You also have the option to kick the ball out to the coach and post up.
• After every made basket, the ball is kicked back out to the coach for another shot.
• The drill is usually played to 3, so the first player to score 3 baskets wins.

 

 

Drill #2

1 on 1 Spot Triple Threat Basketball Drill

 

 

Basketball competition drills are great because they allow for practicing offensive basketball moves that you have been working on against a live defender and also work on defense. The 1 on 1 spot triple threat basketball drill will allow the players to play 1 on 1 from anywhere on the floor (3 point line area and in), and it will help them practice scoring out of the triple threat and being strong with the ball.

This basketball drill will also allow you to work on your defense because you are in a situation where there is no help defense, and it is just one on one. As a defender, you want to work on guarding without fouling, and as an offensive player, you want to learn how to read the defender and use the right move to get a good shot off. This is one of the better defensive basketball drills for teaching a basketball player to guard without any help defense.

 

 

Basketball Drill Overview

Drill Name: 1 on 1 Spot Triple Threat Basketball Drill

Equipment Needed: 1 Basketball and at least 2 players.

 

Goals of the Drill

• Work on scoring out of the triple threat and guarding 1 on 1.

 

Coaching Points

• Read the defender and be efficient with your moves.
• The defender will work on guarding without fouling and try to take away what the offensive player wants to do.

 

Basketball Drill Instructions

• Both players start on a block, and the defensive player has the ball.
• The defender will run out and set the ball down in the mid-range area anywhere on the floor.
• The offensive player is going to pick the ball up, and the drill is now live.
• The offense has 2 dribbles to score.
• The drill goes until the offensive player scores or the defender gets a rebound.
• The next time up, the players will switch who is on defense and who is on offense.
• The coach can decide where they want the ball to be set down, and you can also allow more dribbles for the offensive player, depending on the players’ age and skill.

 

 

Drill #3

1 on 1 Help Wing Closeout Basketball Drill

 

 

Being able to close out and contain your man is an important part of basketball, but most basketball players do not do this very well. The player should be able to close out and be there right as the ball is getting there, right on the catch.

This competition basketball drill is designed to simulate going from being in the help side to closing out and then guarding your man in a 1 on 1 scenario. To make this basketball drill even more game realistic, you will limit the offensive player’s dribbles to only 2 or 3. This will teach the offensive player to be more efficient with their scoring moves. You must spend time working on live defensive basketball drills like this to help develop great defensive tendencies and the correct technique.

 

 

Basketball Drill Overview

Drill Name: 1 on 1 Help Wing Closeout Basketball Drill

Equipment Needed: 1 Basketball, a coach, and at least 2-3 players.

 

Goals of the Drill

• Work on closeouts, containing the dribble, and offensive scoring moves.

 

Coaching Points

• Don’t over closeout and keep your hands high when you closeout.
• Be ready to slide laterally and take a good angle to cut off the offensive player on the drive.
• The offensive player needs to be down ready and reading the defender as they are closing out.
• Don’t catch and hold the ball and let the defender recover, attack on the closeout, or shoot the ball.

 

Basketball Drill Instructions

• The offensive player will stand on the wing, the defensive line underneath the hoop, and the coach on the opposite wing.
• One defender will start in the middle of the paint and chop his feet in a defensive stance.
• The coach is going to skip pass the ball to the offensive player.
• Now the defensive player will close out while the basketballhttps://www.listsforall.com/indoor-basketballs/ is in the air and be there on the catch.
• It is now live, and the offensive player has 3 dribbles to score the ball.
• If the offensive player scores, they stay on offense, and the next defender is up.
• If the defender gets a stop, they go to offense, and the other player goes to the back of the defensive line.
• You can change the number of dribbles allowed for the offensive players depending on the players’ age and skill level.
• You can also make this into a defensive drill where you want to be on defense, and a stop is worth a point.
• If you do this, then the line would form behind the offensive player, and if the offensive player scores, he goes to defense.

 

 

 

 

Basketball Defensive Drills

As any coach will tell you, defense is a vital part of the game of basketball. Not only does it help to prevent your opponents from scoring, but it can also lead to easy baskets for your team. However, simply telling players to “play defense” is not enough. They need to be taught the correct way to play defense, and that is where these basketball defensive drills come in.

By teaching players the basics of defensive footwork, positioning, and anticipation, these drills will help them to become better defenders. And as any coach knows, a good defense is a key ingredient in any successful basketball team.

 

 

Drill #1

Closeout and Contest Defensive Basketball Drill

 

 

Being able to closeout and contest under control is essential when it comes to playing team defense in basketball. The defensive player must work on being there on the catch, staying under control, and then taking away an open shot and a straight-line drive. If not, the offense will be able to catch and shoot or catch and rip through, which will cause problems for the defense.

This defensive basketball drill will help players work on closing out and then slide in either direction to cut off the defender. Doing this at a high level takes numerous quality repetitions, and basketball drills like this one will provide these essential repetitions. So make sure to take advantage of this drill on your own as a player or with your team as a basketball coach.

 

 

Basketball Drill Overview

Drill Name: Closeout and Contest Defensive Basketball Drill

Equipment Needed: Basketball and a partner.

 

Goals of the Drill

• Work on the proper technique of closing out an offensive player and then slide to cut them off when they drive.
• Get plenty of quality repetitions and teach players to feel natural when closing out their man/woman.

 

Coaching Points

• Players need to stay low and athletic, chop their feet, and keep their hands high.
• Make sure not to over-closeout or be out of control. The player must be balanced and under control.
• Be ready to plant and slide in either direction to cut off the offensive player.
• When the player defensive slides after the closeout, they need to take a good angle on their slide.

 

Basketball Drill Instructions

• The line of players will start under the basket, and the coach/partner will start on either with a basketball in their hands.
• The first player up will get in an athletic stance and be ready to go.
• When the coach says “go,” the first player in line will closeout the coach and either defensive slide to the right or left (determined beforehand by the coach).
• They will then get back in line, and the next player will repeat.
• After the desired amount of repetitions, have the players switch which way that they slide.
• To progress the basketball drill, have the player closeout, slide right, slide left, and then closeout again in a triangle pattern (or reverse the pattern and have them start sliding left first). This will allow for more repetition on each player’s turn and develop mental toughness and endurance.

 

 

 

Drill #2

Lane Slides Defensive Basketball Drill

 

 

Defensive lane slides are a great way to work on the basketball fundamentals of on the ball defense and also to work on conditioning. During a defensive possession, the average defender in basketball will come out of their stance multiple times. This is due to them not understanding the value of being in a stance the entire possession, but it is also because their legs are not conditioned to stay in a stance.

The lane slides defensive basketball drill is going to help with both of these problems. All of the repetitions will help place value on the importance of staying in a defensive stance, but it will also give them the leg endurance to do so. Another great thing that this defensive basketball drill does is that it allows the player to work on the correct defensive slide technique. There should not be any heel-clicking, crossing the feet over, etc. This basketball drill will help make sure that this doesn’t happen by reinforcing good technique.  This drill does not need to be done for very long, but it should be emphasized regularly during your basketball training and practices.

 

 

Basketball Drill Overview

Drill Name: Lane Slides Defensive Basketball Drill

Equipment Needed: None.

 

Goals of the Drill

• Develop good defensive slide technique and leg conditioning.

 

Coaching Points

• Don’t raise up out of an athletic stance.
• Only go as fast as you can while still maintaining the correct form.
• Don’t let your feet come together or crossover, and keep your weight centered and on balance.
• You can mix up the speeds of the slide to work more on form or game speed defensive slides.

 

Basketball Drill Instructions

• The player will start on one side of the lane with their outside foot touching the lane line.
• When the drill starts, they will drop into a defensive stance and then slide over to the opposite lane line and touch it with their outside foot.
• As soon as they touch the line with their foot, they will slide back the other direction.
• This will continue for the desired amount of time.
• Usually, anywhere between 15-45 seconds is the recommended time, depending on what you are trying to work on.

 

 

 

 

Basketball Dribbling Drills

Being able to dribble a basketball is an important skill for any player to have. Dribbling allows players to create space for themselves, get around defenders, and set up their teammates for scoring opportunities. As such, it’s no surprise that many players spend hours working on their ball-handling skills.

One of the most popular ways to improve ball-handling is to use dribbling drills. These drills help players to develop muscle memory and improve their coordination. There are many different dribbling drills available, each of which focuses on different aspects of ball-handling. For example, some drills focus on hand-eye coordination, while others focus on developing speed and agility. By consistently practicing these drills, players can drastically improve their ball-handling skills.

 

 

 

Drill #1

Two Chair Dribble Basketball Passing Drill

 

 

High-level passers can anticipate what the defense is doing, but it also takes a quick reaction to what is happening. Whether it is a drive and kick, pushing in transition, or whatever, there will be times when a defender fakes or gambles, and the passer must recognize this and then make the pass to the open teammate. A lot of times, this comes down to a split-second read.

This basketball passing drill will work on handling the basketball and then making a quick reaction and pass. After clearing the dribbling obstacles, the ball handler will be faced with two passing options, and it won’t be until the last second that one of the receivers will raise their hands, and that is who the player must pass to. Developing this quick reaction time and accurate passing during this basketball drill will really help to develop a player’s passing ability.

 

 

Basketball Drill Overview

Drill Name: Two Chair Dribble Basketball Passing Drill

Equipment Needed: Two players, two chairs/obstacles, cones, and two partners.

 

Goals of the Drill

• Work on passing off of the dribble with either hand.
• Make an explosive move off of the dribble.
• Read the defense and then make the correct pass.

 

Coaching Points

• Sell the dribble move and then be explosive off of the dribble.
• Keep your eyes up and see the floor as you handle the basketball.
• Snap each pass on a line to the receiver.
• Players should be spending twice the amount of time working on their weak hand.

 

Basketball Drill Instructions

• Start by setting up a line of two chairs in a row about 5-6 feet apart from each other and another line of cones parallel with the chairs about 8-10 feet away.
• The line of players will start at the first chair, and then the two helpers (receivers) will start about 25-30 feet away on the other side, about 8-10 feet away from each other.
• When the drill starts, the player will make an attacking move at the first chair (you can decide what move to work on) and then explode dribble out to the second chair.
• At this point, one of the helpers/receivers will raise their hand, and the passer must snap a pass off of the dribble to them.
• The receiver will catch the ball and then pass it right back to the player, who will then speed dribble outside of the line of cones back into starting position.

 

 

 

Drill #2

Stationary Ball Handling Warm Up Basketball Drill

 

 

This is not an overly complicated basketball drill, but it is perfect for getting warmed up before a practice or workout. It will allow players to get some touches on the ball and get their legs warm. Also, it doesn’t require much space either, so it is perfect for a large number of players in a basketball camp setting as well.

This stationary basketball dribbling drill is perfect for all levels of players because the moves can be switched in and out. For more advanced players, you can add more difficult combo moves to execute, and for beginners, you can simplify each move. So whether you are just starting, are an expert player, or are looking for basketball dribbling drills for your team (at any level), this is an excellent drill to use.

 

 

Basketball Drill Overview

Drill Name: Stationary Ball Handling Warm Up Basketball Drill

Equipment Needed: One basketball

 

Goals of the Drill

• Work on ball handling and several different dribble moves.
• Get warmed up before a basketball practice or workout.
• Develop confidence in both hands dribbling the basketball.

 

Coaching Points

• Stay in an athletic stance the whole time.
• Keep your eyes up, seeing the floor while you are dribbling the basketball.
• Dribble the basketball as hard as you can and control each dribble.

 

Basketball Drill Instructions

• Each player will start with a basketball and in an athletic stance.
• The first move that the players must execute is a crossover move without any dribbles in between for 20 repetitions.
• The next move will be a between the legs move (alternating legs) for 20 repetitions and then behind the back for 20 repetitions.
• After completing all of the single moves, the drill will move into double moves.
• From here, the coach can select any double or triple move that they want the player to execute.
• It could be a between the legs crossover, between the legs behind the back, etc.
• You can also work on triple moves like a crossover between the legs behind the back move or any other combinations you would like.
• Continue each dribble move for the desired amount of time or repetitions.
• To make this basketball dribbling drill even more difficult, have the players execute any of the dribble moves with their eyes closed.

 

 

Drill #3

Moving Slow to Fast Between the Legs Crossover Basketball Dribbling Drill

 

 

Basketball is a game that requires players to be able to change pace, and the better a player can do that, the harder they will be to guard. This is especially true when they are handling the basketball. A player that can lull the defender into a false sense of security with a slower dribble before attacking and blowing by them at full speed will create a ton of driving angles.

Once the driving angle is created, they will be able to score themselves or set up a teammate. This ball handling basketball drill is going to work on this exact situation. It will allow the player to set up the defender with a casual first move (making them think they are safe) and then blow by them with a second move.

 

 

Basketball Drill Overview

Drill Name: Moving Slow to Fast Between the Legs Crossover Basketball Dribbling Drill

Equipment Needed: One basketball.

 

Goals of the Drill

• Work on setting up the defender with a slower dribble move before blowing by them with a second dribble move.
• Work on the between the legs crossover move.
• Develop the player’s ability to change speeds while making dribble penetration moves.
• Improve a player’s overall ball handling and point guard skills.

 

Coaching Points

• The player needs to maintain an athletic stance throughout the moves. Watch the player’s hips and head. If they are bobbing up and down, they are raising up out of an athletic stance.
• On a scale of 0-10, the player’s first move should be at about a speed of 3, and their second move will be a full speed of 10.
• As much as this is a basketball drill to work on changing speeds, it is also an excellent drill for players to develop their overall ball-handling, so make sure that players are staying sharp with their moves, keeping their eyes up, and pushing themselves.
• A great way to help players execute this move is to have them visualize a defender in front of them. So challenge your players to visualize setting up their defender each time.

 

Basketball Drill Instructions

• The player will start on the baseline with the basketball.
• When the drill starts, they will begin dribbling the basketball.
• While moving forward, they will execute a between the legs move at about 30% speed.
• They will then snap it back over in front with a crossover speed at 100% speed.
• The player will continue this pattern forward, focusing on changing up speeds and executing the same move.
• After the desired amount of reps or distance, the player will reset and then execute the move starting with the other hand.

 

Recommended Time, Steps, Scoring, Repetitions

• Have the player do this starting from the baseline and finishing at the half-court line. At this point, they will turn around and come back, but this time, execute the move starting with the other hand.
• You could also set the drill for a specific number of repetitions moving forward or for a set amount of time; usually, 30 seconds for each hand is a reasonable amount of time.
• If space is limited, have the player do the drill to the free-throw line, then dribble back using crossovers and start again with the other hand.

 

 

Drill #4

Reverse Between the Legs Crossover Two Ball Basketball Dribbling Drill

 

 

Great defenders in basketball will challenge an offensive player to use their weak hand and push them out of their comfort zone.  Therefore, every great ball handler must be able to use both hands when dribbling the basketball effectively. This advanced two ball basketball dribbling drill will work specifically on the reverse between the legs crossover dribble move, but in essence, will work on a player’s overall ball handling.

The addition of the second ball in this basketball dribbling drill increases the difficulty level of the dribbling skills. The more a player is challenged in practice or on their own, the easier the ball handling skill becomes with one basketball. Repetitions build confidence, and the more reps that a player can get with the basketball, or two, in their hands, the more confident they will be in a game situation.

 

 

Basketball Drill Overview

Drill Name: Reverse Between the Legs Crossover Two Ball Basketball Dribbling Drill

Equipment Needed: 2 basketballs.

 

Goals of the Drill

• Work on ball handling and developing both hands equally.
• Increase complexity using the two ball basketball dribbling drill to improve speed and control with the ball.
• Work on the reverse between the legs crossover dribble move.

 

Coaching Points

• Make sure players pound the ball hard with each dribble, no soft dribbles.
• Challenge players to keep their eyes up as they continue to increase speed. Players should turn the ball over 2-3 times if they are pushing beyond their comfort zone.
• Maintain a low, athletic stance throughout the drill. Players need to keep their hips low; head and shoulders should not move up and down as they execute the reverse between the legs and crossover dribbles.
• Work to keep the reverse between the legs crossover sequence low, tight, and quick.
• Focus on the reception of the ball from the first move (reverse between the legs) into the second move (crossover). Fingers should be pointing down toward the floor. Make sure the ball is received cleanly from one hand to the other.
• Encourage players to keep the two crossover dribbles in front tight, quick, and below their knees.

Basketball Drill Instructions

• The player will start in an athletic stance with a basketball in each hand.
• To establish timing, the player will take one stationary dribble with their left hand (ball 1) and then do a reverse between the legs dribble (left leg). While the reverse between the legs dribble is going from left hand to right hand, the ball that began in the player’s right hand (ball 2) will be crossed over in front to their left hand.
• As soon as the reverse between the legs dribble is completed (ball 1) and is received into the player’s right hand, they will immediately execute a crossover dribble to get it (ball 1) back to their left hand. Simultaneously, they will be making another crossover dribble with the other basketball (ball 2) to get it from their left hand back to their right.
• The player will essentially make two basketball crossover dribbles in front (balls 1 and 2) immediately after completing the reverse between the legs move (ball 1).
• Continue this sequence of reverse between the legs, crossover for the desired amount of time, then switch which hand begins the combination move.

Recommended Time, Scoring, and Repetitions

• The recommended time for this stationary ball handling basketball drill will be a total of 60 seconds, 30 seconds for each direction of the combination move. After completing the moves in one direction for 30 seconds, the player can take a brief break before completing the same drill and ball-handling sequence beginning with the opposite hand for 30 seconds.
• To vary the basketball drill, you could have players change the sequence and type of combination moves being executed, or you could add or reduce time.
• You could modify the drill by having the players pass one of the basketballs (ball 2) across the front of their body to switch from one hand to the other, rather than executing two crossover dribbles in front with each basketball. Therefore, the player would still be doing the ball-handling combination move with ball 1, passing ball 2 across from one hand to the other, rather than dribbling it.
• If the player is advanced or has mastered the combination ball-handling moves at a high level, you could have them walk forward toward half-court rather than remain stationary with the basketball dribbling drill.
• If needed, for players to regain rhythm or work up to the complexity of the drill, the player can add in 1-3 stationary dribbles in between the combination moves.

 

 

Drill #5

Walking Double Between the Legs Basketball Dribbling Drill

 

 

As a ball-handler in basketball, if you are really able to; pause your defender, read them, and then make an explosive move, you become so much harder to guard. A lot of the time, though, ball handlers get caught playing too fast at one consistent speed. Kyrie Irving is such a hard player to guard because of his ability to stop and go at any time he chooses.

This ball handling basketball drill will really focus on having the player change up speeds and from slow to fast as they are getting ready to set up a move. This one ball basketball dribbling drill is working on the double between the legs combo move, but it is really focusing on these other areas as well.

 

 

Basketball Drill Overview

Drill Name: Walking Double Between the Legs Basketball Dribbling Drill

Equipment Needed: 1 basketball.

 

Goals of the Drill

• Work on selling the between the legs behind the back move and really changing up speeds.

 

Coaching Points

• As with most of the basketball drills that you will do, make sure that you stay low in a low athletic stance the whole time.
• Don’t be a robot with your movements; really look to pause, sell your move, and changeup speeds as you go through the drill.
• Keep your eyes up as you do the drill, and use your eyes to sell the move.

 

Basketball Drill Instructions

• The player is going to start on the baseline with a basketball.
• The player will take a stationary dribble (the only one during the drill), pause, and then make an explosive double between the legs combo move leading themselves forward with the move.
• Without taking any stationary dribbles in between, the player will pause again and then execute the same move.
• Continue this pattern all the way to the free-throw line and then retreat dribble back to the baseline.
• Repeat the same action, but this time starting with your other hand.

 

 

Drill #6

3 Bounce Crossover Basketball Dribbling Drill

 

 

This is one of the more basic basketball dribbling drills, but it is excellent for working with players on being efficient with their movements and really mastering the on the move crossover dribble. It is also an excellent basketball drill for breaking down being explosive after a player makes a move past their defender.

Because whatever type of a dribble move that a player uses on their defender, they will always want to get their shoulders downhill and push the basketball out past their defender after they make their move. So the same way that a basketball player would practice their form shooting to improve their shooting technique, this one ball basketball dribbling drill will allow players to practice their form and technique when attacking a defender off of the dribble.

 

 

Basketball Drill Overview

Drill Name: 3 Bounce Crossover Basketball Dribbling Drill

Equipment Needed: One basketball, a partner (or chair if no partner), and a basket.

 

Goals of the Drill

• Work on being able to explode past a defender with a crossover move.
• Fine-tune the details of a good crossover dribble.
• Work on different types of finishes at the basket or pull up shots.

 

Coaching Points

• The player needs to stay low and athletic as they come into their move and execute it.
• Make sure that the player doesn’t take a false step backward before attacking.
• Really lock in on teaching the details of the crossover move and the player’s ability to sell the move.
• The player needs to explode out after the three dribbles, make the crossover move, and then explode out of that move.
• You can work on whatever type of basketball finish you would like at the basket – athletic finish, floater, runner, pull up, etc.

 

Basketball Drill Instructions

• The player will start 6-8 feet off of the 3 point line out on the wing.
• The partner (or chair) is going to be right on the 3 point line.
• When the drill starts, the player will take three stationary dribbles with his/her outside hand.
• After the 3rd dribble, the player will push the ball out and attack the partner/chair.
• At the partner/chair, they will make a crossover move to the middle and push the ball out past the defender and finish at the basket.
• The next player in line will go, or the player will reset and repeat.
• After the desired amount of repetitions, switch sides of the floor.

 

Recommended Time, Scoring, and Repetitions

• If doing this basketball drill for repetitions, have the players cycle through until you have achieved the desired amount of repetitions and then switch sides. If you have a large group of players, set up the drill on both sides of the floor.
• Doing this drill for time will allow you to stay better on track with your workouts but will flow the same way. Just set your desired amount of time for each type of finish you want to work on and keep working through each finish.
• If you are finishing at the basket, reps and makes will be pretty similar, so it doesn’t really make sense to do makes at the basket. However, if you are working on pull-up shots, makes would be a good way to keep track. If you are tracking by makes, you could turn it into a competition basketball drill. You could have the losers run or something as well.
• This basketball drill is great for working on the crossover move, but it is also an excellent drill for working on the between-the-legs move and behind-the-back move. So consider working on these moves with this drill as well.

 

 

Drill #7

Any Move Rhythm Basketball Dribbling Drill

 

 

Being able to handle the basketball and make quick moves comes down to being comfortable with the basketball. If a player is not comfortable handling the basketball, they will have to slow down to make their move or turn the ball over when they try to make their move. This one ball basketball dribbling drill will allow the player to really develop their handles by having them quickly go from making move to move without stopping.

Along with working on handles, this basketball drill also does a great job of developing footwork. Going in and out of the cones each time forces the player to really have quick and light feet as they do the drill. Footwork translates into so many parts of the game of basketball, so anytime you can improve on it is a plus.

 

 

Basketball Drill Overview

Drill Name: Any Move Rhythm Basketball Dribbling Drill

Equipment Needed: 1 basketball and 8-10 cones.

 

Goals of the Drill

• Work on ball handling and footwork.

 

Coaching Points

• Don’t repeat the same move twice in a row.
• Keep your eyes up scanning the floor, and don’t look down at the ball.
• Stay low and don’t raise up after you make a move.

 

Basketball Drill Instructions

• Set up a straight line of cones (8-10), each cone 2 feet apart.
• The player is going to start at one end of the cones with the basketball.
• When the drill starts, the player will take a stationary dribble and then make one of four moves at the first cone (crossover, between the legs, behind the back, or reverse between the legs).
• As soon as they make the move at the first cone, they will push the ball out for another stationary dribble and then do a different move at the next cone.
• They will continue this pattern all the way through the cones.
• On the last cone, the player will really push the ball out and simulate an attacking dribble.
• Go through the line of cones 2-3 times to complete the drill.

 

 

Drill #8

Between the Legs Competition Basketball Dribbling Drill

 

 

A great way to get out of your comfort zone when doing different basketball drills is by adding a competition aspect to the drill. This will force the player to go as hard as they can or lose the drill. Another benefit of adding a competition aspect is that it picks up the energy in the gym.

This one ball basketball dribbling drill will challenge the player to handle the basketball as quickly as possible while moving forward and backward. It is a great ball handling basketball drill for skill development training, a camp setting, or in the gym on your own.

 

 

Basketball Drill Overview

Drill Name: Between the Legs Competition Basketball Dribbling Drill

Equipment Needed: 1 basketball and 2 cones.

 

Goals of the Drill

• Develop dribbling skills and work on getting out of your comfort zone.

 

Coaching Points

• Don’t be afraid to mess up and make a mistake; really try to get out of your comfort zone.
• Push the ball out and cover ground as you attack each time.
• Keep your eyes up and see the floor while you are doing the drill.
• You can set up multiple stations to get more players involved and have it be a large competition.

 

Basketball Drill Instructions

• Set up two cones 10-12 feet apart from each other.
• The player is going to start at one of the cones with a basketball facing the other cone.
• When the drill starts, the player will dribble the ball out with their weak hand to the other cone.
• As soon as they reach the other cone, they will retreat dribble between the legs 3 times back to the original cone.
• When they reach the cone, they will push-dribble crossover the ball back to their weak hand again and repeat the motion.
• Continue this pattern for 30 seconds and count how many times you touch a cone to keep track of your score.

 

 

Drill #9

Windshield Wiper Toss Tennis Ball Basketball Drill

 

 

The windshield wiper tennis ball toss drill is a great basketball drill that incorporates a tennis ball and basketball. Using a tennis ball to work on basketball dribbling drills makes you focus on the tennis ball rather than the basketball. Hopefully, this will help make dribbling a basketball second nature to you and allow you to keep your eyes up while dribbling the ball. Once you can handle the basketball with your eyes up, you will be able to read the defense and make the correct play. If you are looking for a great way to improve your handles, try tennis ball basketball dribbling drills.

 

 

Basketball Drill Overview

Drill Name: Windshield Wiper Toss Tennis Ball Basketball Drill

Equipment Needed: basketball and tennis ball.

 

Goals of the Drill

• Improve ball handling.

 

Coaching Points

• Keep your head up, toss the tennis ball straight up in the air, pound the basketball, stay low during the drill.
• Make sure that you are practicing a good tennis ball toss each time.
• You will need to be able to execute a good toss as you progress to more difficult drills.

 

Basketball Drill Instructions

• Stand in an athletic position with a tennis ball in one hand and a basketball in the other hand.
• Sweep dribble the basketball back and forth in front of you (in a V motion).
• While doing this, toss and catch the tennis ball with the other hand.
• Repeat the action for 30 seconds to a minute, and then switch hands.

 

 

Drill #10

Follow the Leader Between the Legs Two Ball Basketball Dribbling Drill

 

 

Being able to comfortably handle the basketball with either hand can add a lot of value to a player’s game. It gives them the ability to handle pressure better, make dribble moves, and penetrate to either side. This two ball basketball dribbling drill will help the player develop both hands at the same time and give them the confidence to make a move with either hand.

The goal of basketball drills like this is to force the player to get out of their comfort zone. That way, when they get into an actual game situation, they will be a lot more comfortable handling the basketball. Also, by having to follow the leader, the player must keep their eyes up and see what is going on while dribbling the basketball. That translates into a game situation where a player has to read the defense and set up the offense.

 

 

Basketball Drill Overview

Drill Name: Follow the Leader Between the Legs Two Ball Basketball Dribbling Drill

Equipment Needed: 2 basketballs and a partner.

 

Goals of the Drill

• Work on handling the basketball with both hands on the move and seeing the floor while you do.

 

Coaching Points

• As with all basketball dribbling drills, you should be getting out of your comfort zone; don’t be afraid to mess up and make a mistake.
• Do your best to react as quickly as you can to the leader’s change of direction.
• Stay low in an athletic dribble stance and be explosive in your movements.

 

Basketball Drill Instructions

• The player will start on the baseline with a basketball in each hand, and the partner will start on the baseline.
• When the drill starts, the player will begin to dribble the basketballs, and as the leader moves, the player must follow them.
• However, every time the leader changes directions (forward, backward, left, right), the player must make a between the legs dribble and move with one of the basketballs.
• This will continue until the leader and player get all the way down to the opposite baseline.

 

 

Drill #11

Two Ball Kill the Grass Basketball Dribbling Drill

 

 

This is a great stationary two-ball basketball dribbling drill that should be done regularly if you want to improve your handles. It can be done pretty much anywhere because all you need is a flat, hard surface and two basketballs. This basketball drill works so well because you are pushing yourself and getting outside of your comfort zone.

The drill will only last for 15-20 seconds, so go as hard as you can and not worry about turning the basketball over. In fact, in this basketball dribbling drill, turning the basketball over is encouraged. You don’t want to turn the basketball over purposely, but you want to be going too hard that you turn the ball over. That way, when you slow yourself back down to normal speed, you have even more control of the basketball.

 

 

Basketball Drill Overview

Drill Name: Two Ball Kill the Grass Basketball Dribbling Drill

Equipment Needed: 2 basketballs.

 

Goals of the Drill

• Push yourself out of your comfort zone, develop your handles, and work on your hand quickness.

 

Coaching Points

• Keep your eyes up and dribble the basketball as hard and as fast as you can.
• Be creative with your moves, and don’t repeat the same move two times in a row.
• Stay light on your feet and in a low dribble position.

 

Basketball Drill Instructions

• The player is going to start with a basketball in each hand.
• When the drill starts, the player will dribble the basketballs as hard as possible and do any move they want in a 5-foot space.
• They will continue to do moves for 15-20 seconds and then stop.

 

 

 

Drill #12

Number Drill 1 Basketball Combo Move

 

 

Being able to dribble the basketball is just one step to being a point guard. You also have to keep your eyes up and read the game while you dribble the ball. This means that you need to dribble the basketball so well that you don’t even have to think about it.

The number basketball drill is a great way to work on ball handling, conditioning, and thinking, all in the same basketball drill. As you begin to get tired, you will have to rely on your mental toughness. At the end of a close game, you need to be sharp mentally, even if you are tired. The number drill one basketball combo moves is a great one ball basketball dribbling drill for all ages and skill levels.

 

 

Basketball Drill Overview

Drill Name: Number Drill 1 Basketball Combo Move

Equipment Needed: 1 basketball, 5 chairs, and a partner.

 

Goals of the Drill

• Become a better ball handler and work on thinking while you are tired.

 

Coaching Points

• Keep your eyes up the whole time.
• Stay low in an athletic stance and protect the ball as you dribble.
• Don’t be afraid to mess up and push yourself to go as quickly as you can from chair to chair.

 

Basketball Drill Instructions

• Set up 4 chairs in the shape of a box just inside the 3 point line, and then place the 5th chair in the middle of the box.
• The chairs will be numbered 1-5, starting with the chair on the left baseline (if you are standing under the basket) and going clockwise all the way around; the center chair is number 5.
• Start at chair number 1 and dribble all the way around, making a combo move at each chair.
• It can be any combo move that you want to use.
• After you get to chair number 5, the coach will call out the number of the next chair that the player will go to it and make a combo move.
• After about 45-60 seconds, the coach will call out “finish.”
• At this point, the player will finish with a layup.

 

 

 

 

Basketball Finishing Drills

Basketball players, regardless of position or size, need to dedicate time to improving their finishing around the basket. Being able to finish with contact, off-balance, and other difficult scenarios are hallmarks of a good finisher. While some players may have a natural advantage in this department due to size or athleticism, there are still things that all players can do to get better.

These basketball finishing drills will help players of all levels improve their skills. The drills focus on a variety of finishes, such as the floater, Euro Step, and Pro Hop. There is also an emphasis on being able to finish with either hand and having a soft touch. These are essential skills for any player who wants to be a high-level finisher. By dedicating time to these drills, players will see a significant improvement in their ability to finish around the basket.

 

 

Drill #1

Two Ball Same Side Hook Shot Mikan Basketball Drill

 

 

The hook shot is a finish that isn’t used as much in today’s game, but any player that has mastered it can create a problem for taller defenders or defenders who are shot blockers. Finishing around the basket in a variety of ways allows for players to have options when they are in the post or finishing on a drive.

This basketball finishing drill extends the classic Mikan drill and allows the player to get a bunch of quality repetitions in a short period of time. By using two basketballs, the player is being forced to maintain control of the ball with just one hand while extending the ball, creating a high finish. This drill will also work on the player’s footwork and body positioning, allowing them to develop their technique and hopefully master the hook finish.

Add this basketball post drill to a player’s workouts. Even if a player doesn’t predominately use a hook shot, this drill is still great for working on footwork and developing a soft touch around the basket.

 

 

Basketball Drill Overview

Drill Name: Two Ball Same Side Hook Shot Mikan Basketball Drill

Equipment Needed: 2 basketballs and a basket.

 

Goals of the Drill

• Work on a high finish away from the body and touch around the basket.
• Work on the player’s footwork and body positioning to score over a taller defender.

 

Coaching Points

• The player must extend the hook shot up for a high finish, which will allow them to score over a taller defender.
• Make sure the player is keeping their body between the ball and the defender to take away the defender’s ability to block the shot.
• Find a good rhythm and stay light on your feet while maintaining good elevation.
• Put the ball where you want it to go and with a nice soft touch.

 

Basketball Drill Instructions

• The player will start with a basketball in each hand on the right side of the basket, out towards the lane line.
• When the drill starts, the player will jump off their left foot and shoot a hook shot with the basketball in their right hand, extending the ball for a high finish.
• They will then pass the basketball in their left hand to their right hand, rebound the first basketball out of the net with their left hand, and then repeat the hook shot motion with their right hand.
• The player will continue this pattern for the desired amount of repetitions or time and then switch sides of the basket and hands that they finish with.
• You can also do this drill jumping off the same foot as the hand you are laying the ball up with.
• This will help to work on footwork and finishing in a variety of different ways around the basket.

 

Recommended Time, Steps, Scoring, and Repetitions

• Have the player take five shots from each side of the basket. Set a goal of makes out of those five attempts. This will give them a chance to compete against themselves while still completing enough repetitions.
• If you want to ensure that they make a certain number of shots, have them do this basketball drill until they reach five made baskets. For beginners, this might take more time if you have the player do it until they make a certain number of baskets.
• Challenge them to make as many hook shots in a row as they can; you can use this to create competition if you have multiple people doing the drill.
• You could also put a specific time amount to do the drill; 20-30 seconds for each side would be a reasonable amount of time. Test to see how many shots can they make in the given time. You could add more time if you want to challenge their endurance.
• Extend the range on this shot once they have mastered the technique by moving away from the basket another step or two.

 

 

Drill #2

Tony Parker Two-Foot Floater Basketball Drill

 

 

Many different players use a two-foot floater and do a great job of using it, but one of the most consistent players to use this move over their career was Tony Parker. He could get by his defender but then had to deal with a much larger shot-blocker coming over to help. The two-foot floater finish highlighted in this basketball finishing drill allowed him to get a finish off over the top of a bigger defender at a high percentage.

This basketball training video will breakdown the different aspects of the two-foot floater finish. It will teach smaller guards how to get to a pocket of space and then get their floater off before the help defender can get to them. If mastered, this finish can be tough to guard and an excellent way to finish around the basket.

 

 

Basketball Drill Overview

Drill Name: Tony Parker Two Foot Floater Basketball Drill

Equipment Needed: One basketball, a basket, and a dummy defender (optional).

 

Goals of the Drill

• Work on finishing with a two-foot floater over a helping shot blocker.

 

Coaching Points

• When you are attacking the basket, use your eyes to see the floor and freeze the help defender.
• If you have a defender on your hip after making a blow-by move, don’t open back up to the defender; keep them on your hip as you go for the finish.
• You can work on both a more extended floater finish and a quicker floater finish.
• Make sure that you have a strong base with your feet on your finish.

 

Basketball Drill Instructions

• The player will start with the basketball out on the 3 point line (top of the key or wherever you would like to attack from).
• From here, the player will begin to handle the basketball.
• They will then make an attacking move past the imaginary defender to the basket.
• When they get into the middle area of the paint, they will jump up off of two feet and shoot a floater (work on both right and left hand).
• If there are multiple players, the next player in line will go; if not, the player will reset and go again.
• You can set up cones or chairs if you would like as well.
• One cone/chair to make the dribble move at and one to finish over as the help defender.

 

Recommended Time, Steps, Scoring, Repetitions

• If doing this drill for a set number of repetitions, make sure that you are working on both hands equally. Also, it will be beneficial to work on attacking from different areas on the floor. You could set this up with sets and do a set from each wing and the top of the key for three total sets.
• Another way to do this is for a set amount of time. If you decide to do this, place 3-5 minutes on the clock for each spot you will attack from, and then rotate to the next spot after that time is finished.
• Similar to the repetitions way, you could count only makes and have the player complete a specific number of makes from each spot.

 

 

Drill #3

Up the Lane Down the Lane Basketball Finishing Drill

 

 

Having a soft touch around the basket while changing pace or direction to evade the defender at full speed is one of the skills that allow a player to be a great finisher in basketball. Regardless of the type of finish, the offensive player needs to develop a soft touch around the basket that will allow them to finish at a high percentage.

This finishing basketball drill will incorporate repetitions of different finishes around the rim, either as a warm-up or during the course of a workout at full speed. In addition to finishing, this basketball drill allows you to focus on ball handling. Working on both of these skills at the same time will allow for maximum skill development as players go through the drill.

 

 

Basketball Drill Overview

Drill Name: Up the Lane Down the Lane Basketball Finishing Drill

Equipment Needed: 1 basketball per player, a cone, clock/timer, defender (optional).

 

Goals of the Drill

• Work on finishing around the basket with various finishes (you can decide the specific type of finish).
• Work on developing a soft touch around the basket and finishing from different angles.
• Develop ball-handling skills and work on different types of combo moves.

 

Coaching Tips

• As the players make their dribble moves up the lane, they need to keep their eyes up and looking down the court.
• The players should keep their hips and shoulders down when making their dribble moves; try to visualize as if they need to get by a defender.
• Players need to keep their dribble low and tight as they are making moves in a tighter space, closer to the basket.
• Once the player reaches the cone and turns to the basket to attack, they need to accelerate on the first step to get by the defender.
• Players need to make sure they reach high and jump up on their finish, rather than jumping out and falling off balance.
• If working with multiple players at a single basket, make sure you alternate the sides so that players are not running into each other on the finish.

 

Basketball Drill Instructions

• Place a cone just above each elbow.
• The players will each have a ball and start on either/both blocks.
• The player will execute the predetermined dribble move as they move up the lane; they will continue repeating this dribble move until they reach the cone. The coach can determine which hand the dribble move will begin with.
• As the player approaches the cone, they will circle it (maintaining their dribble) and attack toward the basket to execute the predetermined finishing move.
• The player will get their own rebound and get back in line.
• Switch lines after the desired amount of repetitions (or time) to make sure players are working on dribbling moves and finishing on both sides of the court.

 

Recommended Time, Scoring, and Repetitions

• This drill is demonstrated with each player making the same dribble move and finish on each side of the court three times before moving on to different dribble moves and finish. However, you could also do the same drill for a specific amount of time (i.e., 2 minutes for each dribble move/finish combination).
• In the demonstration, the coach predetermined the dribble moves and the type of finish. If you wanted to encourage greater flexibility and creativity, the players could determine their own dribble moves and/or type of finish.
• If you are working with a less skilled group of players, it is probably best to focus on single moves for the dribble moves up the lane. As the players increase in skill level or are more advanced, they can incorporate double combination dribble moves up the lane (i.e., between the legs/crossover).
• To change the dimensions or constraints for the drill, you could extend the cones a little further beyond the elbow toward the top of the key (this would allow for more repetitions of the dribble moves). You could also extend the cones a little wider than the lane line to change the angle of the attack move and finish at the rim.
• To increase the difficulty of the finish and make it more game-like, you could add a live defender at the rim to contest the shot or to try and slightly bump the offensive player off balance.

 

 

Drill #4

Off-Hand Development Basketball Drill

 

 

This is a great basketball drill because it is compatible with a player doing a one-person workout or an entire team. The drill will allow players to work on ball handling with their off-hand and finishing at the rim. Forcing the use of the off-hand will keep players from always transferring the ball over to their strong hand when they get in trouble. It will help the player start to become comfortable and confident using their off-hand.

Regardless of position, this is a great basketball finishing drill to do because even a post player can benefit from being able to take a few outlet-dribbles up the court to create a better passing angle after a rebound or a kick ahead to a post player in transition where they need to put the ball down for a couple of dribbles before finishing at the rim.

 

 

Basketball Drill Overview

Drill Name: Off-Hand Development Basketball Drill

Equipment Needed: 1 basketball per player or 4-6 basketballs for the whole group, 4 chairs, and a full-court.

 

Goals of the Drill

• Develop your off-hand dribbling the basketball and finishing at the rim.

 

Coaching Points

• Keep your eyes up, scanning the floor the whole time while you are dribbling the basketball.
• Make a great change of pace moves when you go buy the chair defender.
• Don’t rock the ball when you go to finish.
• You can assign a specific finish (athletic finish, floater, runner, reverse, euro, pro hop, one hand quick finish, etc.) or leave it up to the player on the finish.

 

Basketball Drill Instructions

• Set up a chair on each elbow and have a line of players under each basket.
• At the same time, a player from each line will attack the chairs to their left, make a dribble move at each chair, and then finish with a left-hand finish.
• The next player in line will repeat the same action and continue this cycle.
• The first move that the player(s) will make at each chair is a hesitation and go move, the second move will be an in and out, and the third move will be a retreat dribble to an in and out move.
• It is up to you how many times a player does each move, but usually down and back twice is a good standard.

 

 

Drill #5

Stephen Curry Warmup Floater Basketball Drill

 

 

If you can master the floater, you can somewhat eliminate a shot blocker’s ability in the paint. Instead of having to finish through the shot blocker, you can finish over the top of them. One of the best players in the world at doing this is Stephen Curry. He has become extremely consistent at floating the ball over the outstretched hands of a shot blocker for a nice soft finish.

This warm-up basketball finishing drill is something that Stephen regularly does to warm up and maintain his touch around the basket. It is a great basketball drill to add to your workouts and something that you can do daily.

 

 

Basketball Drill Overview

Drill Name: Stephen Curry Warmup Floater Basketball Drill

Equipment Needed: 1 Basketball and 1 partner.

 

Goals of the Drill

• Work on finishing around the basket with a one-foot and two-foot floater.

 

Coaching Points

• Jump straight up and down, hold your follow-through, and stay in your shot until you make or miss.
• Work on using the glass on some of the finishes.
• Don’t look down at the dribble before finishing.

 

Basketball Drill Instructions

• The player will shoot and make floaters from 5 different spots around the basket: right baseline, right-wing area, the center of the paint, left-wing area, and left baseline.
• The player will start on the right baseline about 8 feet out from the basket with the ball, and the rebounder will be under the basket.
• From here, the player will alternate between one-foot and two-foot right-handed finishes, taking a dribble before each finish.
• Once the player makes 5 total with the right hand, they will repeat the same pattern with their left hand.
• After making five with their left hand, they will move on to the next spot and repeat the same thing; continue all the way around.

 

 

Drill #6

Face The Fire Triple Threat Pro Hop Basketball Drill

 

 

Learning to face pressure and then rip through past the defender is exactly what this finishing basketball drill will work on. It is called face the fire because you have to stand up to the defender and face the pressure while you are in the triple threat position. If the defender makes you fall back on your heels, turn your back, or waste your dribble, they win. You must be strong enough to face the pressure and then make them pay for over-pressuring you.

Only after you have done this will the defender respect you and give you your space because they are tired of getting driven past. This basketball drill also works on finishing past the help defender because any good defense will rotate a second defender to help on the drive. Here is where the pro hop move comes into play.

 

 

Basketball Drill Overview

Drill Name: Face The Fire Triple Threat Pro Hop Basketball Drill

Equipment Needed: 1 basketball and 2 partners, one with boxing gloves/pads (optional).

 

Goals of the Drill

• Practice facing the pressure in the triple threat, ripping through, and then finishing with a pro hop move.

 

Coaching Points

• Keep your eyes up the whole time so that you can see the floor.
• Don’t let the defender make you turn your back or put you on your heels.
• Be strong with the ball and keep it moving so that the defender can’t steal it.
• When you rip through, make sure that it is in a straight line to the basket and that you go somewhere with your dribble.
• You can work on low, medium, or high rip through’s with this drill.

 

Basketball Drill Instructions

• The player will do the same drill from 3 different spots on the floor; wing, top of the key, and opposite wing.
• They will start with their back to the basket, spin the ball out to themselves on the wing, and reverse pivot in triple threat position to the basket.
• As they are doing this, the coach/partner will be fouling them with the boxing gloves/pads.
• They must continue to be strong in the triple threat position until the coach/partner says go, and at this point, they will rip through and attack the basket under control.
• A second defender (partner) will take a charge, and the player must pro hop around them and finish at the basket.
• They will get their ball out of the net, and immediately go to the next spot to repeat the drill, stop after completing the third spot.

 

 

Drill #7

Progression Mikan Basketball Drill

 

 

Whatever position that you play in basketball, you need to be able to finish around the basket. The progression basketball Mikan drill will work on four different types of finishes around the basket and is a great basketball finishing drill to use to warm up. It is important that you can finish in various ways around the basket because it will help prevent the shot blocker from lining up your shot. Also, using the rim to protect your shot will be a huge tool for getting your shot off.

Along with learning to finish better, this basketball drill will help the player develop their footwork. So whether it is a younger player who has trouble lining up their feet, or a big man who needs to develop better footwork around the basket, this is a great drill to use.

 

 

Basketball Drill Overview

Drill Name: Progression Mikan Basketball Drill

Equipment Needed: 1 basketball.

 

Goals of the Drill

• Learn to finish around the basket with four different moves and also work on your footwork.

 

Coaching Points

• Stay light on your feet and really develop good footwork when finishing.
• Find the right place on the backboard for each kind of layup, and trust yourself.
• Push yourself and start to pick up the pace as you start to get into a good rhythm.

 

Basketball Drill Instructions

• The player will start with a basketball facing the backboard on the left side of the hoop.
• He/she will step 1-2 with their feet and jump off their left foot for a right-hand layup off the backboard (For the layup to count for this finish, it must go off the backboard and through the basket without touching any rim).
• The player will immediately grab the ball out of the net and then repeat the move but off the backboard’s left side and jump off their right foot and laying it up with their left hand.
• They will make 6 layups (without touching the rim), and then they will move on to doing the drill jumping off two feet.
• It will be the same drill, but they must jump off two feet and finish 6 times (it can touch the rim).
• The third set of layups will be like the first set off one foot, but this time, they are going to face away from the basket and do reverse layups, make 6.
• The last set of layups is going to be reverse layups jumping off two feet.
• Once the player makes 6, the drill is over.

 

 

Drill #8

Transition Rim Run Power Dribble Finish Basketball Drill

 

 

Often in transition, big men are taught to run right down the center of the lane to the front of the rim; this is called a rim run. If the post can beat his/her man up the floor, this can create easy scoring opportunities. However, a big key to this is making sure that the post player can catch and finish. This basketball finishing drill is designed to simulate a post player running in transition down the center lane.

He/she will receive the pass, but because of the angle or the speed of the pass, the player cannot just catch and finish without a dribble. This is where the power dribble comes in. It will allow the post player to gather and finish under control rather than just throwing up an off-balanced layup off the backboard.

Basketball drills like this are great because they allow the player to get a bunch of quality repetitions, but they also teach the player to look for these types of opportunities in a game. If you can get your post player to be thinking, “sprint” every time in transition, you are going to get a lot of transition scoring opportunities.

 

 

Basketball Drill Overview

Drill Name: Transition Rim Run Power Dribble Finish Basketball Drill

Equipment Needed: 1 basketball, a chair/cone, and a partner.

 

Goals of the Drill

• Work on running the floor, making a catch, and finishing with a power dribble.

 

Coaching Points

• Make sure that you do not travel.
• Practice running at game speed so that it is realistic.
• Get your shoulders square to the basket on the layup.
• Have a strong base when taking the power dribble.
• Passer needs to mix up the types of passes.

 

Basketball Drill Instructions

• Place a chair/cone just inside the half-court and line it up with the center of the rim.
• The passer will be on either wing, about even with the trash can, and the player will be next to the chair.
• When the drill starts, the player will run right down the center of the lane, and as soon as the player gets in the paint, the coach will fire them a pass.
• The player must catch the ball, take a power dribble, and then finish with their right hand on the right side and left hand on the left side.
• Players will get their own make, outlet the ball to the passer, and then run around the chair for another repetition.
• The drill can go for a certain number of repetitions or time.

 

 

 

 

Basketball Fundamentals

There is no denying that hard work is important if you want to be a successful basketball player. However, it is also important to make sure that you are working on the right things. Just because you are putting in the time does not mean that you will automatically see results. If you are reinforcing bad habits, you will actually end up making yourself worse.

This is why it is so important to focus on basketball fundamentals. By mastering the basics, you will lay a solid foundation for everything else. Once you have the basics down, you can then start to build on that and add more advanced skills to your game. But if you try to skip ahead and add those advanced skills before you have the basics down, you will just be further reinforcing your bad habits.

So take the time to master the fundamentals and then build on that foundation to become the best player that you can be.

 

 

Drill #1

Ball Protection Basketball Finish Move

 

 

Being able to make an explosive move to the basket is just one part of the equation. You must also be able to protect the ball against an on-ball defender and any help defenders that may try to get their active hands in the play. You must be spending time working on ball protection when working on finishing around the basket.

This basketball drill will work on protecting the ball against an over-aggressive defender and a help defender that doesn’t quite get all the way in the help to take a charge but is looking to strip the ball as you drive to the basket. Being strong with the ball is a basketball fundamental that every player should be mastering.

 

 

 

Basketball Drill Overview

Drill Name: Ball Protection Basketball Finish Move

Equipment Needed: 1 basketball, dummy defender (optional).

 

Goals of the Drill

• Work on attacking the basket and protecting the ball as you go to finish at the rim.

 

Coaching Points

• Bring the ball over top with both hands to remain strong on the move.
• Feel the defender’s weight against you and when you feel that their momentum is making them out of control, use your body to step across and change the angle and finish.

 

Basketball Drill Instructions

• This basketball move is going to be used in two types of situations.
• The first is against an on-ball defender, and the second is against a help defender reaching in.
• Against an on-ball defender that is beat but staying connected on your hip, you will feel their body weight against you.
• When you get to the spot on the floor that you want, you will change direction, bring the ball over top with both hands, put the defender on your back, and then finish at the basket.
• With the help defender, you will recognize that they are stepping up in the gap but are still allowing a small space to sneak through.
• You want to bring the ball up over top with both hands to prevent the help defender from having a chance to strip the ball.

 

 

Drill #2

How to do a Duck In Post Move in Basketball

 

 

When posting up, the difference between catching the basketball in the paint or two steps off the block can be the difference between scoring the ball or not. The deeper the post-catch is, the better chance the player will have of finishing or getting fouled. One of the ways that you can establish a deep post position is ducking in. A duck in post-move is one of the basketball fundamentals that every player should learn, regardless of size or position. Guards can post up on the block and be used to take advantage of defensive mismatches.

As soon as the ball is passed to the wing, you will try and post up your defender and get as deep of a catch as you can. Learning to be great at this move takes practice and time, but many players have made a living off of being really good at this move. This basketball training video will help teach you how to do the move and some of the tricks and tips to make it work for you.

 

 

Basketball Drill Overview

Drill Name: How to do a Duck In Post Move in Basketball

Equipment Needed: 1 basketball, 1 pad, and 2-3 partners.

 

Goals of the Drill

• Learn how to duck in and post up the defender to get the basketball in the post.

 

Coaching Points

• If you don’t have an extra player/coach to stand at the top of the key to start it out, you can have the person on the wing slap the ball, and when they do, the player can duck in then.
• A great duck in move requires the player to set up the defender.
• Act like you are not paying attention, and then duck in as hard as you can. Drive yourself back with your legs as you duck in.
• Keep your hands high to help prevent the defender from getting around and deflecting the pass.
• Duck in under control so that the defender cannot pull the chair on you and make you fall back.

 

Basketball Drill Instructions

• There will be a partner at the top of the key with the ball, a partner on the wing, and one with a pad on the block.
• The player will start on the block where the pad is and stand straight up.
• As the ball is in the air being passed from the top of the key to the wing, the player will step across the post defender (partner with pad) and duck in as hard as they can while still under control.
• Drive yourself back with your legs, catch the basketball, and then rotate your shoulders to the basket and finish.

 

 

Drill #3

Rip Through Basketball Drill

 

 

Being able to be explosive and athletic has a lot to do with technique and form. It comes from playing low and then pushing off and driving in the direction you want to go. Whether you are attacking out of the triple threat, making a move off of the dribble, or doing a defensive slide, it all comes from this athletic base position.

This specific basketball drill will work on being able to rip through on the catch or out of the triple threat, but it really translates into so many areas of the game. It is a great drill to warm up with and to work on the techniques of driving off your back leg. Being able to execute this type of rip through movement is a basketball fundamental that every player should be spending time working on.

 

 

Basketball Drill Overview

Drill Name: Rip Through Basketball Drill

Equipment Needed: 1 basketball or heavy ball.

 

Goals of the Drill

• Practice the correct technique for ripping the ball through and work on being explosive.

 

Coaching Points

• Stay low in an athletic position the whole time and really look to be explosive every time.
• Make sure that you aren’t practicing a travel.
• Keep your eyes up on the rip through and bring the ball from hip to hip, don’t expose it to the imaginary defender.

 

Basketball Drill Instructions

• The player will start with the basketball on their left hip and in an athletic position.
• They are going rip the basketball through and extend their right foot out and forward.
• As they do, they are going to dribble the basketball one time with their right hand.
• Pick the basketball back up and then repeat the movement going to the left side this time.
• Continue alternating back and forth for the desired amount of repetitions or distance.
• Half-court and back is usually a good distance.

 

 

 

Basketball Passing Drills

These basketball passing drills are going to help both players and teams become better passers. High-level passing is an essential part of any offense, as it helps to move the ball around and create scoring opportunities. However, it is not always easy to execute. These drills will help players to develop the necessary skills, such as proper timing and Technique Passing Drills: the methodology used to complete a pass.

With proper coaching and practice, players will be better able to execute passes at game speed, and teams will be able to run their offense more effectively. As a result, these drills are an important part of any basketball training program.

 

 

Drill #1

Fundamental Passing Warm-Up Basketball Drill

 

 

Passing the basketball is an underrated skill that is not always emphasized when it comes to skill development. It is an important skill and can add a lot of value to a player’s game and a team’s success. Becoming a good to even great passer starts with touch, which is precisely what this basketball drill will work on.

This basketball passing drill is an excellent warm-up drill that can be done before practices or workouts and will help develop passing touch. The drill will go through many different types of passes, and all of them will help develop touch. Even if you aren’t a primary passer, this drill is still great for developing overall touch when catching and controlling the basketball.

The better players are able to individually pass, the better your team’s offense will be, and the more ball movement there will be. Also, if a player is more confident passing, they will be less likely to throw errant passes and commit turnovers.

 

 

Basketball Drill Overview

Drill Name: Fundamental Passing Warm Up Basketball Drill

Equipment Needed: 2 Players and 2 Basketballs.

 

Goals of the Drill

• Work on passing with either hand and developing touch.
• Develop confidence executing a number of different types of passes.
• Get a lot of quality passing repetitions in a short period of time.
• Develop touch and hand eye coordination.

 

Coaching Points

• Players need to execute quality passes that are on a straight line and not looping.
• As the drill gets going, the players need to get into a rhythm and push the pace.
• Players need to get out of their comfort zone and not be afraid to mess up.

 

Basketball Drill Instructions

• Players will stand facing each other 7-8 feet apart, and each player will have a basketball.
• The players or a coach will determine the type of pass, and then both players will execute it at the same time.
• The types of passes could be a one-hand push pass, one-hand bounce pass, chest pass and bounce pass (players will alternate who executes what pass), behind the back pass, etc.
• The drill will last for a set amount of time or repetitions, and breaks can be taken between each type of pass if needed.

 

 

Drill #2

Steve Nash Between the Legs Partner Basketball Passing Drill

 

 

The Steve Nash between the legs partner passing drill is going to be both a ball handling and passing drill. What it is going to work on is the ability to make a push pass off of a dribble. This is important for ball handlers because you never know when a teammate is going to come open off a screen or cut, and you may not have the chance to gather the ball with both hands before making the pass.

The reason this basketball drill is named after Steve Nash is because he really mastered this type of pass, and was constantly using it throughout the course of a game. In his prime, Nash was one of the best passers of all time. However, this pass is a little bit more advanced. So before using this type of pass in a game, make sure that you have really mastered it. You don’t want to be inaccurate with the pass or float it, because this will most likely end up in a fast break basket for the other team.

 

 

Basketball Drill Overview

Drill Name: Steve Nash Between the Legs Partner Basketball Passing Drill

Equipment Needed: 2 basketballs and a partner.

 

Goals of the Drill

• Develop the player’s ability to pass off of the dribble with one hand.

 

Coaching Points

• Stay low in an athletic dribble stance the entire time, don’t raise up on the pass.
• Make sure that your passes are accurate and that they are on a straight line, don’t float them.
• It is important that you are able to pass just as well with either hand.

 

Basketball Drill Instructions

• Each player is going to have a basketball in their right hand, and they are going to face each other about 8 feet apart.

• At the same time they are going take a stationary dribble, a between the legs dribble, and then make a push pass with their left hand.

• They will catch their partners pass and then immediately go right into the same action.
• After 15-20 seconds switch which hand starts with the basketball.

 

 

Drill #3

Wrap Around Pass Basketball Drill

 

 

Passing is a very underrated part of basketball, but it should be stressed more, especially to younger kids learning the game. If you look at some of the great passers in the game today, they can make passes in different ways to make sure that the ball gets to where it is supposed to and on time. This basketball passing drill will help you become a better passer.

This basketball drill will work on the correct way to make the wrap-around pass. This type of pass will be used when there is a defender in the passing lane, or maybe you are trying to feed the post. A great way to help get this pass off is by using a pass fake first. Executing all of the different basic passes like the wrap-around pass is a basketball fundamental that every player should work to master.

 

 

Basketball Drill Overview

Drill Name: Wrap Around Pass Basketball Drill

Equipment Needed: 1 Basketball and a partner or a wall.

 

Goals of the Drill

• Improve passing, technique, and court vision.

 

Coaching Points

• Focus on making accurate passes and snapping them on a line.
• Try to hit your partner in the hands.
• Don’t raise up out of an athletic stance when you make the pass.
• Practice making the pass stepping with both feet.
• If you don’t have a partner, you can use a wall.

 

Basketball Drill Instructions

• Face your partner with 10-12 feet in between you and one basketball per group.
• Get in an athletic stance and pivot step around the imaginary defender in front of you, and snap a wrap-around chest pass with your right hand to your partner.
• The other player will catch the ball and repeat the wrap around passing motion back.
• Continue this back and forth pattern for 30 seconds and then switch to the left hand for 30 seconds.

 

 

Drill #4

Steve Nash Two Ball Push Pass Basketball Drill

 

 

If a player is handling the basketball and a cutter pops free, they may not have enough time to pick the basketball up with both hands and then make the pass. This is where the off of the dribble push pass comes into play. It allows the ball handler to quickly be able to make a pass off the dribble to the open player before the defense recovers.

The Steve Nash two ball push pass drill is equal parts a basketball dribbling drill and a basketball passing drill. It will allow the player to develop their ball-handling and the player’s ability to snap an accurate push pass off. The primary age group for this basketball drill is middle school and high school players.

 

 

Basketball Drill Overview

Drill Name: Steve Nash Two Ball Push Pass Basketball Drill

Equipment Needed: Two basketballs and a wall.

 

Goals of the Drill

• Work on ball handling and passing off of the dribble.

 

Coaching Points

• Stay low in an athletic stance the entire time.
• Dribble the basketball as hard as you can to work on ball handling.
• Snap your passes and try to be as accurate as you can each time.

 

Basketball Drill Instructions

• Place a small box or mark on a wall about waist high.
• The player will face a wall (6-8 feet away) with a basketball in each hand.
• They will start to dribble both basketballs at the same time (you can decide on whether it is simultaneous or alternating).
• With either hand, the player will make a push pass and try to hit the box on the wall while still keeping the dribble going with the other hand.
• The player will gather the ball with the same hand that they passed it with and continue dribbling.
• They will alternate back and forth between passing hands.
• The basketball drill can go for a certain amount of time or passing repetitions.

 

 

 

 

Basketball Post Move Drills

When it comes to playing basketball, having a quality post player on your team can make all the difference. Post players create more scoring opportunities on offense and provide a defensive anchor on defense. Not to mention, they also help with rebounding. But becoming a quality post player doesn’t just happen overnight. It takes time, practice, and dedication.

These basketball post move drills will help any post player develop the skills they need to be successful on the court. From low post moves to running the floor, these drills cover everything a post player needs to know. So if you’re looking to take your game to the next level, these post move drills are a great place to start.

 

 

Drill #1

Angle Anticipation Basketball Post Drill

 

 

The best post players in basketball understand angles, timing, and positioning. They can read the defense and then exploit their defender. Rather than fighting them for every inch of ground, they use these different tools to accomplish what they are looking to do in the post.

This basketball post drill will allow the post player to read how their defender is guarding them and then use passing angles to help set them up for a high percentage catch and finish. This drill will teach players to play smarter in the post when it comes to gaining a deep position or angle to finish.

With this basketball drill, the player will learn how to anticipate where the ball is going and then set up their defender to either seal them high or low to create a passing lane. There are many different keys and tips for this type of move, and this training video from USC Trojans assistant coach Christ Capko will provide an in-depth breakdown of each of them.

 

 

Basketball Drill Overview

Drill Name: Angle Anticipation Basketball Post Drill

Equipment Needed: 1 basketball, 3 partners, and a blocking pad (0ptional).

 

Goals of the Drill

• Work on the timing of when the post player should duck in and seal.
• Practice getting a deep position post-catch.
• Develop a skill for creating angles for a pass and exploiting the post defender’s defense.
• Work on different post moves and finishes around the basket.
• It can also be a finishing through contact drill if the dummy defender with the pad chooses to be extra physical with the post player.
• Provide a game-like post up situation that will allow the player to get plenty of game type post-ups, moves, and finishes.
• Work on footwork for posting up and sealing the defender with different angles.

 

Coaching Points

• The post player needs to time up his/her duck in as the ball is being passed around the perimeter. If it is too early, the post defender will ride them out of a good post position. If it is too late, the entry passer may not be able to feed the ball in because an on-ball defender is harassing them.
• Make sure that player is getting a deep position catch and not getting ridden out by the defender. The deeper the catch, the higher the percentage the finish is going to be.
• If the defender is on top, the player must create an angle to the baseline. If the defender is below, the post player must create an angle to the middle.
• The key is to make sure that the post player isn’t fighting the defender but using their defense against them.
• Post player should be communicating and letting the passers know where they want the ball.
• Post players must win the “inside leg race” to make sure that they get the positioning they want.
• If the post player does get ridden out, they can kick the ball out and then repost for a deeper post-catch.
• On the catch, if the post defender is completely buried under the basket, the post player can go right up. If not, the post player needs to catch, check their inside shoulder, read the defender (and the help defense in a game), and then make their move.
• The player needs to be patient in the post and then use the defender’s aggressiveness against themselves.
• On the duck in, the player needs to stay low and athletic and keep a great seal once you have it. They also need to keep their hands up and provide a larger area to pass to and for the defender to fight around if they choose to go for the steal.

 

Basketball Drill Instructions

• There will be a passer on the high wing and in the corner, a dummy defender on the block, and the player posting up on the block.
• The passer at the high wing is going to start with the ball.
• The dummy defender will fight around the post up and take away the pass from the top passer.
• When the passer passes the ball to the corner, the offensive post player will duck in hard and seal the dummy defender on the high side.
• The ball will be entered, and the post player can work on whatever post finish they would like.
• If the dummy defender can fight over the top of the post player’s seal when the ball goes to the corner, the post player will then look to seal the dummy defender on the low side and call for the pass to go back up to the top passer before being entered in for the finish.

 

Recommended Time, Scoring, and Repetitions

• This basketball drill can go for a set number of repetitions, makes, or time. Depending on the level of the player, you will want to increase or decrease these numbers. You could also have one player go through continuously, or if you have multiple players, you could have them rotate through. Just make sure to have the same amount of repetitions on each side of the basket.
• If you have multiple players, you could turn this into a competition basketball drill and track their scores and play to a certain number.
• Also, if you have multiple players, you could set it up so that they must play dummy defense before the catch, and then once the ball is entered, it is live. This will allow for players to work against a live defender with their moves.
• If you want to, you can decide on a set move that you want your post players to be working on for every finish.
• This could also be a great basketball passing drill if you include your guard players. They can practice recognizing the different passing angles and making a quality entry pass. And, if you want to make it more game-like, add dummy defenders on the guards and have them practice making post-entry passes against active hands.

 

 

Drill #2

Moves Post Catch and Finish Basketball Drill

 

 

This is not a traditional game situation basketball drill, but it is a great drill for working on ball handling, hand-eye coordination, and touch around the basket. Also, the player will be forced to get out of their comfort zone with the two basketballs, and hopefully, this will help them in a game when they only have to account for one basketball.

This drill can be done with any position, but it is an excellent drill for post players to use when working on improving their hands and finishing around the basket with a soft touch. The more quality finishing repetitions a post player can get around the basket, the more likely they will be to finish in a game when it matters most.

 

 

Basketball Drill Overview

Drill Name: Moves Post Catch and Finish Basketball Drill

Equipment Needed: Two basketballs, a basket, and a partner.

 

Goals of the Drill

• Work on ball handling and ball control.
• Develop hand-eye coordination when it comes to catching and finishing with either hand.
• Work on finishing around the basket from different angles and with a soft touch.

 

Coaching Points

• The player needs to stay in a low athletic stance the whole time and not raise up until they go for the finish.
• Challenge the player to catch the ball cleanly and get right into the finish on the catch.
• On every finish, the ball needs to be controlled up by the player, not just tossed up to the basket.
• The player needs to get out of their comfort zone with the pace of the ball-handling – it is okay to mess up if the player is being challenged.

 

Basketball Drill Instructions

• The player is going to start under the basket facing out with a basketball.
• The passer will start just under the free throw line facing the player with a basketball of their own.
• When the drill starts, the player will execute either a continuous crossover move, the legs move (figure 8), or a behind-the-back move.
• At the passer’s discretion, they will bounce pass the basketball to either the player’s left or right hand (passer should try to time up the pass for an open hand).
• The player will gather both basketballs and finish with a layup on whatever side the pass is received.
• If the player misses the layup, they will continue to go until they make it.
• Once the layup is made, they will pass the ball back to the passer, begin executing the desired dribble move again, and then get ready for the next pass.
• You can do this drill for the desired number of repetitions or time.

 

Recommended Time, Steps, Scoring, Repetitions

• If doing the drill for time, 45-60 seconds is usually a reasonable amount of time to shoot for. Depending on the player’s level or whether you want to also work on conditioning, you can adjust the time.
• For repetitions, there are a few different ways you could set it up.
  • Have the player complete one of the moves (crossover, between the legs, behind the back) 6-8 times, rest, and then have them make the next move.
  • Allow the player to execute whatever move they want each time for 6-10 reps and then go through the drill for a couple of times with a break in between.
  • Have the coach call out the move each time and go for 6-10 repetitions and the desired amount of sets.
• Another way to challenge players is to count misses as a negative rep. So if they have four makes but miss one, they go back to only having three total makes. Or, you could have them have to make a set number in a row.

 

 

Drill #3

Florida Gators Middle Pick and Roll Basketball Finishing Drill

 

 

This Florida Gators drill will work on four different moves that you can use out of the middle pick and roll action. Executing all of these different moves in this basketball drill will allow the post player to read the defense and choose the correct move on the catch, rather than just blindly using the same move every time.

This is a really great basketball post move drill that you can use in small group training or with your team when post and guards split up to work on different position-specific skills. If you use a lot of ball screens in your offense or a looking to develop a post player, this is a great basketball drill to use.

 

 

Basketball Drill Overview

Drill Name: Florida Gators Middle Pick and Roll Basketball Finishing Drill

Equipment Needed: 1 basketball and a partner.

 

Goals of the Drill

• Work on finishing out of the pick and roll in the middle of the floor.

 

Coaching Points

• Catch the ball under control and with a nice soft touch.
• Make game speed moves so that you can get used to finishing at game speed.
• Get your eyes around quickly to locate the ball on the lob plays.

 

Basketball Drill Instructions

The player will start at the top of the key in ball-screen position, and the coach/partner is going to come off the ball screen. As they do, the player is going to roll. There will be four different actions that the player will work on out of the roll.

1. Pocket Pass: As soon as the player rolls, they will receive a pocket pass for a one-foot finish (no dribble).
2. Lob Pass Finish: As soon as the player rolls, they will get their eyes around and go straight to the basket. As they are attacking the basket, the passer will lob the ball over the top of the defense for an alley-oop finish.
3. Lob Pass Catch and Finish: This finish is similar to the previous finish, but it will simulate the player needing to catch the ball, land, and then go right up for the finish. This might be because the player gets a pass slightly off of the rim or feels more comfortable landing before finishing. Keep the ball high on the finish.
4. Pocket Pass Change Direction: This move will work on getting a pocket pass and then accounting for the help defense. The player will receive the pocket pass after the roll, attack, and then make a quick counter between the legs move before finishing on the other side of the basket.

Once you complete all of these moves for the desired amount of repetitions or time, switch directions of the roll and repeat.

 

 

Drill #4

Elbow Pivot Series Basketball Finishing Drill

 

 

This basketball post-move drill will work on different scoring moves from the elbow area. It will not only work on learning how to finish at the rim, but it is also going to help develop the post player’s footwork and agility. In order to be able to finish at the basket, the player must have good footwork and be able to set their man up. Once the footwork is established, the post player will start adding the different finishing moves to their game.

All of these moves will be out of the basketball triple threat position, and the moves are not going to be very complicated, but the moves are going to translate over to the big men to use in a game situation. After you have done this basketball drill going 1 on 0, you can start having your big men play 1 on 1 with a 2 dribble maximum and allow them to work on the different moves they have already been practicing. Developing basketball fundamentals as a post player, and learning the correct footwork for different moves is essential.

 

 

Basketball Drill Overview

Drill Name: Elbow Pivot Series Basketball Finishing Drill

Equipment Needed: 1 basketball and a partner.

 

Goals of the Drill

• Work on footwork and finishing out of the triple threat from the elbow.

 

Coaching Points

• Make sure that the player pops open to get a catch each time and that they square up to the basket in a strong triple threat stance.
• The player also needs to make sure that they sell their moves and don’t waste any movement.
• Be athletic on the finishes.
• You can do this drill with multiple players in the finishing line if you have more than one player.

 

Basketball Drill Instructions

• The player will start down on the block, and the passer will be at the top of the key on the other lane line.
• The post player will walk his imaginary defender in and then pop to the elbow for a catch.
• As they catch the ball, they will pivot around to the basket into the triple threat position (you can decide if it is a reverse pivot or front pivot).
• This is how they are going to start each move, but they are going to do 4 different moves and in this order; sweep to the basket, sweep one dribble pull up, sweep to a jump stop up and under finish, and lastly, a jab and go opposite finish.
• After you do all of these finishes for the desired amount of times, switch sides.

 

 

 

 

Basketball Rebounding Drills

In basketball, there are two types of rebounding – offensive and defensive. Both are important if you want to win games, so it’s important to work on both aspects of rebounding. These basketball rebounding drills will help you do just that.

Defensive rebounding is about finishing plays and getting the transition offense going. If you don’t rebound well on defense, opponents will keep getting chances to score, which puts a lot of pressure on your team’s defense. So it’s important to be able to grab defensive boards.

On offense, a great rebounder is trying to get second-chance points for their team. They’re looking to tip out or grab a missed shot for a score.

These drills will help you improve your rebounding on both offense and defense, so you can start winning more games.

 

 

Drill #1

Tip In Basketball Finishing Drill

 

 

Offensive rebounds allow for teams to get extra possessions. In close games, a small number of extra possessions could be the difference between winning and losing. This means that a premium needs to be placed on crashing the offensive boards. Not every player needs to crash, but the players you do send to the boards must be equipped with the right tools to get the job done.

Offensive rebounding primarily comes down to heart and being willing to fight on the glass. A player that also has the right timing and touch around the basket makes a big difference. This is where having the right tools comes into play. As mentioned, a player must have the heart and desire to rebound, but they must also have the skills to become a great basketball rebounder.

This basketball rebounding drill mimics an excellent situation for a player to pursue the offensive rebound because of the type of shot being taken and the position of the rebounder. With enough quality repetitions, your players will be able to develop a nose for the basketball and come up with crucial tip backs or even momentum-changing dunk backs at significant moments in a game. This only happens, though, if you are willing to put in the time working on this specific skill.

 

 

Basketball Drill Overview

Drill Name: Tip In Basketball Finishing Drill

Equipment Needed: A player, a shooter, and a basketball.

 

Goals of the Drill

• Work on situational offensive rebounding where an attacking player has a free run to the basket on a shot attempt.
• Develop good timing on when to jump and tip the miss back in.
• Work on being able to anticipate where the miss is going, and then quickly get into position to tip the ball back in.
• Work on developing both of the player’s hands so that they can tip the ball back in with either hand well.
• Improve the player’s second jump ability and their mindset to stay with the play and immediately jump back up to tip the ball again if the first tip is missed.

 

Coaching Points

• Focus on the timing of the jump and tipping as high as possible.
• Spot your target on the backboard
• On missed tip-in, get back up off the ground on your jump as quickly as you can – “2nd Jump.” If a player misses their tip-in, they need to get up off the ground as quickly as possible to look to tip the ball in again. This is called a “2nd Jump.” The quicker a player’s second jump is, the more chance they will have to get their hand on the ball for another tip attempt.
• If the ball bounces off in a way that the rebounder can’t tip at a high percentage, then the player should come down with it.  “Catch it high, and keep it high” for the putback.
• Dunks look great, but only if they go in. So if you cannot dunk it, make sure that you are still able to tip it back in.

 

Basketball Drill Instructions

• The rebounder will start on the right block, and the coach/shooter will be on the left block with the basketball. 
• The shooter is going to miss a shot off of the basket on purpose.
• The rebounder will jump up off the ground and then tip the basketball back in.
• If they miss, they will immediately jump back up and look to tip the ball in again. 
• Once the ball is made on a tip-in, the player will pass the ball to the coach and immediately reset for the next repetition. 
• Continue this pattern for the desired amount of makes or time, switch sides, and repeat using the left hand to tip.

 

 

Drill #2

David Thorpe Shot Fake Finish Basketball Rebounding Drill

 

 

Becoming a great basketball offensive rebounder takes timing and a good nose for the basketball. If you can figure out where the basketball will go before everyone else and then be able to position yourself to get it, you put yourself at a great advantage. The goal of this rebounding basketball drill is to help develop your reaction speed to an offensive rebound.

 

 

Basketball Drill Overview

Drill Name: David Thorpe Shot Fake Finish Basketball Rebounding Drill

Equipment Needed: 1 basketball.

 

Goals of the Drill

• Learn how to track down offensive rebounds and finish with defenders around you.

 

Coaching Points

• Track down the ball and go get it at its highest point.
• Chin ball, and don’t bring it down to your waist where it could potentially get striped.
• Sell your shot fake with your body, head, ball, and eyes.
• Visualize the defender jumping.
• You can vary your finishes around the basket; left hand, right hand, both hands, scoop, etc.

 

Basketball Drill Instructions

• To start this basketball drill, you will begin at the free-throw line with the ball and throw it up off the backboard.
• Run and jump to rebound the ball at its highest point.
• Grab the ball and chin it as you land.
• Pretend there is a shot blocker on you and shot fake before finishing at the basket.
• Repeat for 8-12 reps.

 

 

Drill #3

Superman Pivot Finish Basketball Rebounding Drill

 

 

Being great at rebounding the basketball takes good instincts and technique, but it also requires heart. It is not just enough to get the boards that come directly to you. Be able to box your man out and then go get an out of area rebound. Jump as high as you can every time and think in your head that every rebound is mine.

This basketball drill works on being able to rebound out of area but also on finishing quickly with a pivot finish. You would use the pivot finish when the defender is on the high side of you and pressing up into you. Step by him with the pivot and finish off the backboard.

 

 

Basketball Drill Overview

Drill Name: Superman Pivot Finish Basketball Rebounding Drill

Equipment Needed: 1 basketball.

 

Goals of the Drill

• Improve your rebounding as well as your finishing around the basket.

 

Coaching Points

• Cover as much ground as you can each time.
• Jump as high as you can.
• Try not to bring the ball down to your waist when you land; keep it under your chin.
• When you land, pivot as quickly as you can and finish, visualize the defender.

 

Basketball Drill Instructions

• Start with the ball just outside the left side of the paint.
• Throw the basketball up off the backboard to the other side.
• While the ball is up in the air, rotate over to the right side, jump as high as you can in the air, reach up, grab the ball, and then land outside the paint.
• As you are landing, chin the ball, pivot on your left foot, and then finish at the basket off the backboard.
• Grab the ball out of the net and repeat the same move but start from outside the paint on the right side.

 

 

Drill #4

Box Out Rim Touch Basketball Rebounding Drill

 

 

This is a great rebounding basketball drill to work on the fundamentals of boxing out and work on the player’s ability to release and go get the rebound after the box out. Boxing out and driving the opponent back is just the first step and is only half of the battle. The great basketball rebounders can do this and then finish the play by releasing to gather the basketball at its highest point. This drill isn’t going to use a ball, but it will still practice that quick and explosive jump to get up off the ground on the rebound.

If you want to be a great shooter, you do basketball drills that focus on shooting; the same goes for rebounding. You have to spend the time working on the fundamentals and technique to be a great rebounder. This drill can be added to the end of your practice or basketball training. If you want to be good at rebounding, you have to spend your time working on it.

 

 

Basketball Drill Overview

Drill Name: Box Out Rim Touch Basketball Rebounding Drill

Equipment Needed: 1-2 partners and 1-2 pads.

 

Goals of the Drill

• Work on boxing out, driving backward, and then releasing and getting up off the ground to rebound the basketball.

 

Coaching Points

• If you don’t have 2 partners and 2 pads, do half of the reps to one side of the basket and then switch sides.
• Keep your hands up and drive the pad backward.
• Get up off the ground as high and as quickly as you can.
• Usually, 8-12 repetitions per set are good for this drill.

 

Basketball Drill Instructions

• There will be a partner on each block with a pad, and a player will be in the middle of the paint facing towards the free-throw line.
• When the drill starts, the player is going to chop their feet in a defensive stance.
• The coach will say go, and the player must check the pad with their forearm, and then immediately drive the pad back with their hips/lower back for a couple of seconds.
• They are then going to release from the pad, take a step, jump off both feet as high as they can, and grab the rim (if a player can’t grab the rim, have them get up as high as they can on the net, don’t grab the net).
• When the player lands, they will go right back into a defensive stance and chop their feet.
• When the coach calls go again, the player will go to the opposite side to box out.

 

 

Drill #5

Get Your Own Rebound Hook Shot Basketball Drill

 

 

The get your own rebound hook shot basketball drill is designed to simulate a big man getting an offensive rebound and then going right back up with a hook shot finish. Not only will this basketball drill teach the player the right fundamentals for rebounding and shooting the hook shot, but it will allow for a lot of reps and muscle memory development.

It is important that the player pushes themselves and gets up as high as they can each time on the rebound, don’t wait for the ball to come down. If they wait for the ball to come to them in a game, it might get tipped out or rebounded by another player. Positioning is just the first step. The player still needs to release to grab the board at its highest point. Along with rebounding, this drill will help develop a soft touch around the basket, which will really help with finishing. This is one of the better basketball rebounding drills to add to your training time because it works on so many different things simultaneously.

 

 

Basketball Drill Overview

Drill Name: Get Your Own Rebound Hook Shot Basketball Drill

Equipment Needed: 1 basketball and a partner.

 

Goals of the Drill

• Work on offensive rebounding and finishing with the hook shot around the basket.

 

Coaching Points

• Don’t wait for the ball to drop down to you on the rebound, but go up and get it at its highest point.
• Keep your body in between the ball and the imaginary defender on the hook shot.
• Don’t bring the ball down after the rebound but chin it and keep your hands strong on the ball.

 

Basketball Drill Instructions

• The post player will start on either block, and the partner will start with the ball under the basket.
• When the drill starts, the partner will slam the ball against the ground in the center of the paint, and the player must rotate off the block, jump up to grab the ball, and then chin it (their chest should be facing the opposite block).
• As soon as they chin it, they are going to go right up into a hook shot.
• After they shoot the hook shot, they will go to the opposite block and then repeat.
• You can do the drill for a certain amount of time, shots, or makes.

 

 

 

 

Basketball Shooting Drills

Shooting a basketball is an important skill for any player to master. With the right drills, players can improve their shooting accuracy and form. These drills will also help players learn to shoot in different situations, such as off the dribble or after a shot fake.

Catch-and-shoot shots are some of the easiest shots to make in basketball. However, players still need to practice their form and technique. These drills will help players get in the habit of catching and shooting quickly and accurately.

Players also need to be able to shoot off the dribble. This drill will help players learn how to stop and shoot quickly while still maintaining their balance.

The triple threat drill is important for players who want to learn how to shoot after a pump fake or shot fake. This drill will help players learn how to deceive their defenders and get open shots.

These basketball shooting drills are essential for any player who wants to improve their shooting skills. With the right amount of practice, players can become deadly shooters on the court.

 

 

Drill #1

3 in a Row Around the Horn Basketball Shooting Drill

 

 

As a shooter in basketball, it can sometimes get repetitive shooting hundreds of catch-and-shoot shots every day. The goal of basketball shooting drills like this is to provide a challenge to help the shooter stay engaged while they are shooting. It will also allow them to work on being mentally tough as they shoot. Shooters must have a short memory, always believing their next shot is going in. With a goal to beat in the drill, players will stay locked in the whole time and not let their minds wander.

Shooters are constantly on the move throughout this basketball drill. This will force them to reset their feet with each shot and quickly get their feet and hands ready for the next shot.

This catch and shoot basketball drill is a great drill to use at the end of a workout or practice. Players can compete against each other to see how many sets of three in a row they can make. This creates a certain amount of pressure that players need to deal with in real game situations.

 

 

Basketball Drill Overview

Drill Name: 3 in a Row Around the Horn Basketball Shooting Drill

Equipment Needed: 2 basketballs, a rebounder, and a passer.

 

Goals of the Drill

• Work on a shooter’s ability to quickly and consistently getting their feet set to catch and shoot a basketball from different spots on the floor.
• Develop mental toughness by creating a competitive goal for a shooter to reach during the drill.
• Allow for quality catch and shoot repetitions for players.
• Develop mental toughness to make multiple shots in a row or make a big shot when needed.

 

Coaching Points

• Players need to lock in on excellent shot preparation and holding their follow through on every shot.
• It is crucial to maintain good shooting habits. The tendency will be for players to rush because of the time factor but don’t allow them to practice bad habits.
• Players need to shoot one shot at a time and not let one miss lead to another because of doubting their shot. Players need to lock in on correct basketball shooting fundamentals with each shot.
• Compete. Whether players are competing against a teammate or are by themselves, they need to always try to beat the goal.

 

Basketball Drill Instructions

• The shooter can start anywhere that they want on the 3 point line.
• The passer will be out around the key and the rebounder by the basket.
• When the drill starts, the player will catch and shoot 3’s from anywhere they want (must shoot from a different spot each time).
• The shooter will try and make sets of 3 in a row as many times as they can in a minute.
• The goal is to make at least 3 in a row, 3 different times.

 

Recommended Time, Steps, Scoring, and Repetitions

• Give the shooter 1 minute to try to make 3 sets of 3 makes in a row. This gives them a set goal that they must reach at the end of the time period. They either achieve their goal, or they don’t.
• Give the shooter 1 minute to make as many sets of 3 makes in a row as they can. This allows them to compete against teammates or themselves to see how many sets they can get.
• Shoot until the shooter has made 3 sets of 3 made shots in a row. This will ensure that they reach their goal while not focusing on time.

 

 

Drill #2

1 Foot Hops Hurdle Basketball Shooting Drill

 

 

This basketball shooting drill is going to be a combination of both shooting and working on footwork. Great shooters in basketball have excellent footwork and can maximize their shooting chances by getting squared up on every shot. Rather than shooting off-balanced shots, their footwork allows them to these shots into high percentage shots.

This 1 foot hops hurdle shooting drill will allow players to be able to work on footwork and also game-specific shooting and scoring moves. Players will also be able to work on being balanced and developing a light, quick jump off of one foot, which will translate to several different areas.

 

 

Basketball Drill Overview

Drill Name: 1 Foot Hops Hurdle Basketball Shooting Drill

Equipment Needed: 1 basketball, a passer, a basket, and five hurdles or cones.

 

Goals of the Drill

• Work on footwork and developing a light, quick one-foot jump.
• Develop a quick second jump.
• Practice coming into every shot the same way and being ready to shoot before the ball gets there.
• Work on ripping through and attacking the basket or pulling up for a shot.

 

Coaching Points

• Stay balanced on each landing and work on staying under control of your body.
• Come into your shot after the last hurdle down ready to shoot the basketball.
  • Show your hands and be ready to get right into your shot.
• Keep your eyes up on your shot fake and go somewhere with your dribble.
• On the rip through, make sure that you are ripping through straight to the basket.
  • You want to go in as straight of a line as possible.

 

Basketball Drill Instructions

• Set up five hurdles evenly spaced out at the top key (12-18 inches apart).
• The player will start on one side of the hurdles facing the baseline, and the passer will be in the paint with the ball.
• When the drill starts, the player will jump laterally over each hurdle, only using one foot to do so.
• As they come over the last hurdle, they will be down ready to receive the pass.
• You can either work on a catch and shoot, a shot fake one-dribble pull up (or drive to the basket), or a rip through to the basket.
• If there is only one player, they will reset on the opposite side and repeat the same action, but his time, going back through the hurdles the other way, jumping on the other leg.
• If there are multiple players, the next player will go, and the first player will get back in line.
• Switch sides after a certain number of repetitions or time and work on jumping off the other foot.

 

Recommended Time, Steps, Scoring, Repetitions

• There are several different moves and finishes that you can work on with this basketball drill. So if you decide on repetitions for tracking this drill, make sure that you work on a specific number for each type of move.
• Also, you can get creative with the different types of moves that you work on. You could specify the type of finish, work on a step back after the rip through, etc. Feel free to mix up what you work on.
• If you want to make this drill more challenging, try only counting makes as repetitions. This will put some pressure on the players and will also help to develop mental toughness. If you have multiple players going through the drill, you can either have them all combine to make a set amount of shots or play a game and see who can get to a set number of makes first.
• Doing this drill for a set amount of time is also an excellent option. Just make sure that you are evenly working on the different types of moves.

 

 

Drill #3

3 In a Row Warm Up Basketball Shooting Drill

 

 

When you first get in the gym, you must be spending time working on shooting touch and getting up quality repetitions around the basket. You don’t want to come into the gym and just start jacking up long-distance shots. You must value your warm-up time at the beginning of a workout or practice.

This warm-up basketball shooting drill will allow the player to get quality repetitions right around the basket. It will also force them to lock in mentally because they must make 3 in a row, and their time is being recorded.

 

 

 

Basketball Drill Overview

Drill Name: 3 In a Row Warm Up Basketball Shooting Drill

Equipment Needed: 1 basketball.

 

Goals of the Drill

• Get warmed up and work on the hook shot and mid-range shot.

 

Coaching Points

• As you go through this basketball drill, really lock in on the details of each move and work on developing great muscle memory.
• Challenge yourself to go at a good speed, but don’t rush your finishes or your shot.

 

Basketball Drill Instructions

• The player is going to start on the right block with the basketball.
• When the drill starts, the player will spin the ball to themselves, catch the ball, leg whip to the middle, and shoot a hook shot.
• The player must make 3 in a row.
• Once the player makes 3 in a row, they will move to the left block and repeat the same move to the middle.
• After the left block is completed, the player must make 3 free throw line jumpers in a row.
• This combination basketball shooting drill is done without a rebounder and is timed to see how long it takes for the player to complete the drill.
• Keep track of your times and try to beat your best time every time that you do the drill.

 

 

Drill #4

2 Minute Magic Basketball Shooting Drill

 

 

This catch and shoot basketball shooting drill is designed to help you work on consistency and provide some pressure on the shooter. A game adds pressure that you cannot duplicate in a basketball drill, but with this drill, you have to make 3 shots in a row to move on to the next spot. Hopefully, this will simulate a little bit of game pressure in each shot and help the basketball player to be able to shoot under pressure better.

Watch the basketball training video below to learn how to do this basketball shooting drill, and then add it to your basketball training plan. When doing this drill, the player needs to be shooting at game speed and is getting their work done before the shot.

 

 

 

Basketball Drill Overview

Drill Name: 2 Minute Magic Basketball Shooting Drill

Equipment Needed: 1 Basketball and 1 partner (for rebounding)

 

Goals of the Drill

• Improve catch and release shooting, improve shooting concentration.

 

Coaching Points

• Concentrate on being in a shot-ready position before you catch the pass from the rebounder.
• Hold your follow-through until the ball is made or missed.

 

Basketball Drill Instructions

• This drill aims to make 3 3 point shots in a row in each of the 5 spots around the 3 point arc (both sides of the baseline, both sides of the wing, and the top of the 3 point arc).
• The player must complete the 3 makes in a row at one spot before moving on to the next.
• The player only has two minutes to complete the drill.

 

 

Drill #5

Side Step Basketball Shooting Drill

 

 

Sometimes, when doing catch and shoot basketball shooting drills, you can fade mentally if you aren’t careful. The shooting begins to get repetitive, your shot becomes sloppy, and you end up actually practicing bad habits, which in the long run actually hurts your shot more than helps it.

A great way to stay mentally focused and locked into volume shooting is to have fresh types of basketball shooting drills or challenges that the shooter must do as they shoot. This is not one of the more complex basketball drills that we offer, but it will provide another variation that you can use when shooting to keep the player mentally locked in and engaged.

 

 

Basketball Drill Overview

Drill Name: Side Step Basketball Shooting Drill

Equipment Needed: 1-2 basketballs and 1-2 partners.

 

Goals of the Drill

• Work on shooting and developing mental toughness as a shooter.

 

Coaching Points

• Stay mentally engaged and shoot the same way every time; really lock in on the details of shooting the basketball.
• Shoot one shot at a time, and don’t let a miss negatively impact your next shot.

 

Basketball Drill Instructions

• This basketball shooting drill aims to make a total of 100 combined shots from 5 spots on the floor; corner to the wing, wing to the slot, slot to slot, opposite slot to the opposite wing, and opposite wing to the opposite corner.
• At each spot, the player will continue to shoot until they miss two in a row.
• After each shot, the player will slide one step to either their left or right (depending on which way they are working their way up or down in a spot).
• Once the player misses two shots in a row, they will move on to the next spot.
• After all 5 spots, total the number of makes and see if you were able to beat the hundred point mark or the goal established for the shooter.

 

 

Drill #6

Kevin Sutton Penetrate and Kick Basketball Drill

 

 

One of the best ways to get open shots is being able to penetrate and kick. The goal of the ball handler is to drive hard to the basket, and then once the defense collapses to help, kick the ball out to an open shooter for a catch and shoot shot. When this happens, the shooter needs to slide to create space from their defender and to also create a better passing lane for the player penetrating to the basket.

This basketball drill will work on both the penetration and shooting action, and it is also going to add a second basketball to make the drill even more challenging. It is a great basketball shooting drill to use with your wings because it is something that every wing player should be able to do, and it will allow for a lot of repetitions in a short period of time.

 

 

Basketball Drill Overview

Drill Name: Kevin Sutton Penetrate and Kick Basketball Drill

Equipment Needed: 2 Basketballs and 2 players.

 

Goals of the Drill

• Work on penetrating and kicking for the shot.

 

Coaching Points

• Stay low and athletic the whole time when dribbling the basketballs, and don’t raise up out your athletic stance when you make the pass.
• Try to make the pass on a straight line and don’t scoop it; push it.
• The player can dribble both basketballs simultaneously or alternating; it is up to you.

 

Basketball Drill Instructions

• One player will start in the center of the court, and the other player will be on the left-wing (even with the free line).
• When the drill starts, the player with both basketball will dribble down to the top of the key and then angle themselves to the left elbow.
• While this is happening, the player on the wing will slide to their left a few steps.
• As the ball handler gets to the elbow, they will snap a one-handed push pass with their outside to the wing player for a shot.
• After they make the pass, they will shoot an elbow pull-up jump shot with the other ball.
• If there are more than two players, the next group will go; if not, the players will reset but change spots.
• Repeat for the desired amount of repetitions and then switch sides.

 

 

Drill #7

Rip Hamilton Basketball Shooting Drill

 

 

A great way to improve your basketball shooting is to improve your mental toughness. The stronger you are mentally, the more likely you will be able to take and make a big shot at the end of a game.

This basketball shooting drill is not very complex, but it will challenge the player to hit multiple shots in a row. The player must shoot different types of shots and string together makes to get to the next spot. It is a great drill to use at the end of a workout to challenge the player mentally. Basketball drills like this are also great for getting up a high volume of shots.

 

 

Basketball Drill Overview

Drill Name: Rip Hamilton Basketball Shooting Drill

Equipment Needed: 1-2 basketballs and 1-2 basketballs.

 

Goals of the Drill

• Work on making multiple shots in a row and improving mental toughness.

 

Coaching Points

• Stay in your shot until you make or miss; value every shot.
• Stay mentally engaged as you begin to get tired.

 

Basketball Drill Instructions

• The shooter can start anywhere that they would like on the 3 point line.
• When the drill starts, the player will alternate between shooting a catch and shoot 3 and a one-dribble pull-up.
• The only way the player can move to a different spot is to make two shots in a row.
• The drill lasts for 5 minutes, but after 2 and a half minutes, the player will shoot 5 free throws, and then for the last 2 and a half minutes, everything will go to the left.
• Keep track of the number of spots the shooter beats.

 

 

Drill #8

Moving Off the Ball Basketball Shooting Drill

 

 

This is a great basketball shooting drill for wing players and shooters who move without the ball to find open shots. It will allow the player to work on multiple types of cuts and shots, all in the same basketball drill.

It is important to spend time working on all of the different types of cuts and shots that you will come across during a game because it will be different footwork for each shot. The better footwork that you have coming into your shot, the higher the percentage you will shoot. You don’t want to be shooting off-balanced, rushed shots. So as you are going through this catch and shoot basketball shooting drill, really lock in on the different footwork for each type of shot that you shoot.

 

 

Basketball Drill Overview

Drill Name: Moving Off the Ball Basketball Shooting Drill

Equipment Needed: 2 basketballs and 2 partners.

 

Goals of the Drill

• Work on different types of shots off the ball and coming into them with the correct footwork.

 

Coaching Points

• Really lock in on the correct footwork for each shot and make sure that you are balanced on each shot.
• Stay in your shot until you make or miss, don’t run off to the next shot early.

 

Basketball Drill Instructions

• The player will start on the block and will shoot a total of 6 catch and shoot shots in this order:
  • 1. Fill out to the wing fade cut.
  • 2. Start from the corner J cut to the elbow shot.
  • 3. Start on the block straight out to the wing shot.
  • 4. From the wing, drift to the corner shot.
  • 5. From the corner, fill up off a stagger shot at the top of the key.
  • 6. From the top of the key, finish with a flare shot on the wing.
• This sequence can be repeated with or without a break in between and can be done as many times as you want, usually 4-5 times, though.
• Don’t allow yourself to practice bad habits, though, as you get tired.
• Repeat the same sequence on the other side of the floor.

 

 

Drill #9

Flat Switch Game Situation Scoring Basketball Drill

 

 

Great offensive players in basketball can score in a variety of different ways. They are also able to do a great job of scoring within the offense. Whether it is with a ball screen, a down screen, spacing to the right spot on the floor, etc., they can find quality shots within the team’s offensive flow.

This combination basketball shooting drill will highlight a couple of these key scoring opportunities and allow the player to get quality repetitions at each move. It is also a great drill for teaching players to think while they play because this basketball drill will force the player to stay mentally engaged the whole time. You can also turn this into a conditioning drill as well.

 

 

Basketball Drill Overview

Drill Name: Flat Switch Game Situation Scoring Basketball Drill

Equipment Needed: 2 basketballs, 2 partners, and a cone or chair.

 

Goals of the Drill

• Work on scoring in the offense and making game moves.

 

Coaching Points

• Stay locked in on form and fundamentals as you go through this basketball shooting drill, don’t practice any bad habits.
• Value every shot that you shoot, especially as you start to get tired.
• The player should be calling out their cut every time.

 

Basketball Drill Instructions

• Set up a cone on the right-wing, have one partner at the cone to simulate a flat switch, and the other partner ready to rebound.
• The player is going to start towards the middle of the floor with the ball.
• When the drill starts, the player will attack the cone and use it as a ball screen.
• The partner will flat switch onto the player for token defense and then let them shoot a pull-up jump shot.
• After that, the player will jog down to the paint, where they will set up their imaginary defender before coming out to the wing for a straight cut 3 point shot.
• For the last shot of the sequence, the player will drift down to the corner for the catch and shoot shot from the 3-point line.
• After this shot, the next player in line will go, or the same player will reset and start the drill over.
• Complete the sequence 3-5 times and then switch sides of the floor.

 

 

Drill #10

Vanderbilt Post Transition Basketball Shooting Drill

 

 

A post player in basketball that can spread the floor and make shots at a high level adds a lot of value to a team. It puts the post defender in a mismatch situation by requiring them to guard further out on the floor than they are used to. This is also great for transition situations because most post defenders are taught to run back to the rim during transition defense. So if the post player can make trail shots, it really helps out the transition offense. The post defender must either come out and defend the trail shooter, leaving the basket open for penetration, or give up the trail shot.

This catch and shoot basketball shooting drill will help the shooter work on shooting trail shots from multiple spots on the floor. It will allow the player to come into their shot from different angles and spots on the floor. It is a great basketball shooting drill to use with your post players if you are a coach, or if you are a player, to use on your own if you have a rebounder.

 

 

Basketball Drill Overview

Drill Name: Vanderbilt Post Transition Basketball Shooting Drill

Equipment Needed: 1 basketball, a partner, and a cone.

 

Goals of the Drill

• Work on shooting transition trail shots.
• Work on footwork coming into your shot and conditioning.

 

Coaching Points

• Come into your shot the same way every time, be consistent with your shot preparation.
• Stay in your shot until you make or miss.
• Make sure that you are not drifting forward or kicking your leg out on your shot.
• Show your hands to receive the pass for the shot.
• The goal is to make at least 8 for 10.

 

Basketball Drill Instructions

• Set a cone up out near half court at the center circle.
• The rebounder will start with the basketball in the paint, and the shooter will start at the cone.
• When the drill starts, the shooter will run down to the block for a catch and shoot trail shot.
• After the shooter shoots the first shot, they will jog back to the cone and then sprint down the other side of the floor for the same shot on the other side of the paint.
• This will be the same pattern for the whole basketball drill, but the following shots are in this order (on both sides); short corner, wing mid-range, elbow, free throw line (only one shot), and 3 point line (only one shot).
• This will give the player a total of 10 shots.
• The player can shoot two free throws after the drill.

 

 

 

 

Basketball Team Drills

The more the players can get quality repetitions at a particular skill, the more likely they will be able to replicate it in an actual game. For example, if a team wants to be better at finishing around the basket, they should dedicate time to practicing this through different drills. Even though it may sound tedious and redundant, team members must be willing to go through with it in order to improve their playing skills.

Basketball drills help players work on areas that need improvement, whether it is shooting, dribbling, or passing. By doing so, it allows for more ball touches which increases muscle memory and makes it easier for the player to execute the same move in an actual game. It also allows players to become more familiar with each other’s playing styles and tendencies, making them better equipped to play as a unit.

Overall, basketball team drills are important because they simulate game-like situations and help players bridge the gap between practice and reality.

 

 

Drill #1

3 Shooters 2 Passers Basketball Shooting Drill

 

 

Sometimes, basketball team drills can be a little bit stagnant, especially when it comes to basketball shooting drills. Typically there is one player shooting while a few others stand around and watch. Or, every player is shooting at the same time but not really getting up quality, game-specific shots.

This shooting drill will allow three players to all be engaged in the drill simultaneously, and it will enable all three of them to be working on shooting game speed shots. These types of shots are going to be able to translate over to actual gameplay. This drill is also going to work on several other skills as well.

There are several different skills that this drill is going to work on outside of shooting. It will work on passing with the off-hand, shooting over a closeout, and working on the proper technique of closing out the correct way. If done the right way, this basketball drill will be able to add a lot of value to your team and will allow you to work on several different skills at the same time.

 

 

Basketball Drill Overview

Drill Name: 3 Shooters 2 Passers Basketball Shooting Drill

Equipment Needed: 2 basketballs, 3 players, and a basket.

 

Goals of the Drill

• Work on being down ready and being able to shoot over a closeout.
• Develop confidence in passing with the off-hand.
• Work on executing proper closeouts.

 

Coaching Points

• The shooter needs to focus on having the correct basketball shooting motion every time. Before the ball gets there, they need to have excellent shot preparation; show hands, drop your butt, etc.
• The closeout defender should be working on chopping their feet and practicing a proper closeout every time. Don’t allow your players to go through the motions.
• Players need to snap their off-hand passes and work on throwing an accurate pass every time.
• IMPORTANT: Whatever type of scoring, repetitions, or time you decide to use with this drill, make sure that your players are not rushing their shots. When a competition factor is added, players sometimes will rush to try and get more shots up. DO NOT ALLOW THEM TO PRACTICE BAD HABITS. Remind them that it is about quality, not just quantity.

 

Basketball Drill Instructions

• This drill can be done from mid-range or 3-point range anywhere around the arc.
• One player will start on the perimeter as the shooter, and the two players underneath the basket will each have a basketball.
• When the drill starts, the first player in line under the basket will snap the ball out to the shooter with their off-hand and then closeout the shooter.
• The shooter will catch and shoot the basketball, hold their follow-through, retrieve their shot, and then get in line under the basket.
• The first passer will now become the shooter, and the next player in line will execute the same action as before.
• Any player waiting in line to be the next passer should be handling the basketball with their off-hand.
• Continue this pattern for the desired amount of repetitions, makes, or time and then switch spots.

 

Recommended Time, Steps, Scoring, Repetitions

• You can do this drill for a set number of repetitions, but it typically will work best with counting makes. Here are a couple of options for tracking makes.
  • You can do any number of makes, but to make it a little more challenging, you can set a number of makes, and if the player misses on a game-winner, they lose one of their makes. So if the goal is to make four total shots and they have three makes but miss, they go back to two makes.
  • Instead of having makes be counted for each player, pool the makes and have the players work together to reach a set number (you can still do the negative a make if one of the players misses on the game-winner). If you have groups of players going at multiple baskets, you could also make it a challenge between baskets to see who can get to the set number of makes first.
• Another great way to do this drill is with time. Try putting up two minutes on the clock, and then challenge your players to reach X amount of makes before the time runs out. If you have multiple groups of players, you could also set it up so that each basket is competing against each other to make the most shots in the set amount of time.

 

 

Drill #2

Step Back Team Finishing Basketball Drill

 

 

Successful basketball players need to have a variety of moves that allow them to create a scoring opportunity, either for themselves or a teammate. Not only do they need to make the moves, but they need to be executed at game speed.

This team basketball drill allows your team to maximize efficiency and get up a high volume of shots in a short period. Using multiple baskets will enable a large group of players to participate in the drill simultaneously. This drill focuses on the step-back move into a shot, followed by an additional pull up shot on a side basket.

While sometimes considered a lower percentage move, the step back can be an effective way for a player to create space and separation against a taller defender, either for a shot or a second attack move. This basketball drill will allow your players to work on their footwork, balance, and speed into a step-back move for a shot. The game speed repetitions will enhance the effectiveness of the repetitions to make the moves more realistic.

 

 

Basketball Drill Overview

Drill Name: Step Back Team Finishing Basketball Drill

Equipment Needed: Two obstacles (chairs, cones, trash cans), basketballs (one per player), a passer, and a side hoop (optional), live defender (optional), clock/timer (optional).

 

Goals of the Drill

• Work on the step-back move as a way to create space and separation against a defender. 
• Expand a player’s individual attack moves to be able to score in a variety of ways.
• Work on a player’s first step/dribble off the reception of the pass (at game speed) to focus on exploding into the move.
• Focus on a player’s balance from the step-back move into their shot.
• To maximize repetitions through the use of multiple baskets, with players going at game speed.

 

Coaching Points

• Players need to sprint full speed into the pass to work on a clean reception of the ball into their move. Players should have their hands up and ready to receive the pass and call for the ball.
• The first step after receiving the pass needs to be explosive and toward the rim; no lateral steps, as this allows the defense time and space to recover. Hips and shoulder need to be down, and the player needs to stay low and athletic to get by the defender.
• Players need to make sure they put their dribble down simultaneously with their first step to avoid a traveling violation.
• Keep eyes up and focused on the rim.
• The step-back move should create a “V” shape to maximize the space created away from a defender.
• Footwork from the step back into the shot needs to be clean. Once the dribble is picked up, there are no extra steps to gather and gain balance.
• Players need to focus on their balance into their shot, making sure their hips and shoulders are open toward the basket.
• Encourage a speed dribble and hard attack into the pull-up shot (or optional finishing move) on the side basket.

 

Basketball Drill Instructions

• Place an obstacle on the right block and have the players line up on the left sideline near half-court. Each player in line will need a basketball (or as many players as possible to maximize repetitions and speed of drill).
• The passer will set up at the left-wing or elbow area. If you have a side basket available, place another obstacle at the right elbow area of the side basket.
• The first player in line will pass the ball to the coach and then cut hard toward the basket, receiving the ball as they approach the top of the key.
• As they receive the pass back from their coach, they will attack toward the basket and right lane line with their right hand.
• As they approach the obstacle, they will use their step-back move and shoot a mid-range shot.
• They will get their own rebound and immediately attack the side basket obstacle for a dribble pull-up shot.
• The player will rebound their pull-up shot and speed dribble back into line at half court.
• Players will continue this pattern until a specific score or time is achieved.
• The drill can be duplicated on the other side of the court to have the players attack with their left hand into the step back and pull up shots.

 

Recommended Time, Steps, Scoring, and Repetitions

• This basketball shooting drill is demonstrated with each player receiving one point for a made step-back shot and two points for a made pull-up shot, with the goal being seven points. However, you could also do the same drill for a specific amount of time (i.e., 2 minutes), and the player with the most points is the winner of the drill.
• Depending on what move or shot you want to emphasize with your players, the scoring for each of the moves could also be adjusted. For example, if you want to place a greater emphasis on the step-back shot, then that could be worth two points, and the pull-up shot on the side basket could be worth one point.
• To change and add creativity to the drill, instead of having players shoot a pull-up shot on the side basket, you could have them work on a finishing move to the rim. For example, they could finish with a floater, an inside-hand lay-up, a reverse lay-up, or a variety of other moves. This finishing move can be pre-determined by the coach, or you can allow the players to decide their finishes.
• To make the drill even more game-like, you can add a live defender on the step-back shot (rather than a cone or stationary object). This defender can simply contest the shot, or you can add a decision-making component, where the offensive player would need to read the defense on the step back. The attacking player would read whether they have created enough space to get the shot off or whether the defense has recovered but is off-balance, which would then allow the offensive player to make a second attack move to finish all the way to the rim.

 

 

Drill #3

5 Star Basketball Passing Drill

 

 

The 5-star passing drill is great for getting warmed up and working on finishing around the basket. It is going to require your entire team to run the drill. That means that every player is going to be involved and working on their game. Along with this being a basketball passing drill, this drill will also work on the fundamental skill of meeting every pass. This is a crucial skill to develop, especially with younger players. Meeting every pass will really help to cut down on turnovers with your team.

Also, if your team is struggling with communicating on the court, you can turn this into a basketball drill that requires every player to call out the name of the person that they are passing to/receiving the ball from. It is great practice for game communication and getting used to talking on the court. This is a great team basketball drill to start practice out with a couple of times a week.

 

 

Basketball Drill Overview

Drill Name: 5 Star Basketball Passing Drill

Equipment Needed: 1 basketball and 10+ players.

 

Goals of the Drill

• Work on passing, catching the ball, and footwork.

 

Coaching Points

• It is important that every pass is on target and that every player meets the pass coming to them.
• If you want to work on communication during this drill, have the players call out the passers/receivers name each time.

 

Basketball Drill Instructions

• Have at least two players in each starting section.
• The spots are going to be under the basket and then at each corner of the half-court (you can have the players move in a couple of feet if desired).
• The ball is going to start under the basket.
• When the drill starts, the player under the basket is going to pass to the half-court corner to his right and then follow their pass to the back of that line until their turn comes again. (every player will follow their pass and get in the back of that line).
• Now the 2nd player is going to pass to the baseline corner to their right, the 3rd player is going to pass the ball to the opposite baseline corner, and the 4th player is going to make a bounce pass to the player in the last half-court corner, cutting to the basket for a layup/dunk (after the player finishes, they are going to get in the back of the line under the basket).
• Continue for the desired amount of repetitions, and then switch the passing direction to work on finishing on the other side of the basket.

 

 

Why Basketball Drills

Basketball drills are an essential part of any team’s practice routine. They consist of specific exercises or activities designed to improve players’ skills, teamwork, and overall performance on the court. Coaches should use basketball drills with their team for several reasons, including:

 

Improve fundamental skills

Basketball drills focus on improving fundamental skills such as shooting, passing, dribbling,
and footwork. These skills are essential for players to perform well on the court, and practicing them through drills can help players become more efficient and consistent in their execution.

 

Enhance teamwork

Basketball is a team sport, and drills provide an excellent opportunity for players to work together and improve their chemistry. Through drills, players learn how to communicate, understand each other’s strengths and weaknesses, and develop a sense of trust on the court.

 

Develop game-like situations

One of the most significant advantages of using basketball drills is their ability to simulate real-game situations. By incorporating specific scenarios into drills, coaches can prepare their players for what they may encounter during an actual game. This helps players become more comfortable and confident in their decision-making abilities under pressure.

 

Increase intensity and competition

Drills can also be used to add more intensity and competition to practice sessions. By setting goals, keeping track of scores, or implementing a time limit, players are motivated to work harder and push themselves to improve. This competitive atmosphere can help simulate the pressure of a game and prepare players for high-stress situations on the court.

 

Track progress and identify weaknesses

Practicing specific skills through drills also allows coaches to track their team’s progress and identify areas where players may need more work. By observing their team’s performance in various drills, coaches can pinpoint individual weaknesses and tailor their training plans accordingly.

 

Keep practice sessions engaging

Basketball drills are not only beneficial for skill development but also for keeping practice sessions engaging and fun. By incorporating a variety of drills, coaches can prevent practice from becoming monotonous and ensure that players stay motivated and excited to improve.