Step 1/4Both go — push the ball out in front
Orange = offense · blue = defense · solid line = cut · dashed = pass · zig-zag = dribble · T = screen · dotted arc = shot
Ball Handling drill
1v1 Speed Dribble Race
The dribbler starts a few steps ahead and races the length of the court for a layup while the defender sprints to cut them off.
- Time
- 8 min
- Players
- 2+
- Ages
- 9+
- Level
- All levels
Equipment: 1 ball per pair
How to run the drill
- 1The ball handler starts a few steps in from the baseline. The defender starts on the baseline, on the inside (middle of the court) of the dribbler.
- 2Both go at once — on the coach's call, or when the dribbler moves.
- 3The dribbler tries to beat the defender to the far basket for a layup; the defender sprints to get in front.
- 4Run it down both sides so players use both hands. Two pairs can go at once in opposite directions.
Coaching points
- Push the ball out in front — few dribbles
- Use your body to keep the defender behind you
- Defender: sprint to a spot ahead of the ball, don't chase from behind
More ball handling drills
Ball Handling · Intermediate
1-on-1 Zig-Zag
Ball handler zig-zags the length of the floor against a defender who shuffles and turns them.
8 min2+ playersAges 9+
Animated
Ball Handling · Beginner
1v1 Rooted Defender
A defender can retreat from the three-point line but cannot step above it. The attacker reads the gap and chooses a shot or drive.
7 min2+ playersAges 8+
Animated
Ball Handling · Intermediate
1v1 Through the Gate
The defender commits to one of two gates. The attacker recognises the open gate and tries to finish within three dribbles.
8 min2+ playersAges 9+
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