Free PDF · Youth coaches · U9–U17
Constraints-led basketball coaching pack
Turn one basketball problem into a game players can explore. This practical constraints-led approach pack helps you change the challenge, observe decisions and adapt the next round.
Six adaptable small-sided games · 11 pages · 109 KB · A4 PDF
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Inside the pack
- A plain-language CLA explainer and five-step design cycle
- Six illustrated games with setup, scoring and rotations
- Easier options, added challenges and questions for every game
- U9–U17 adaptations and four practice-design checks
- A blank constraint-design sheet and public further-reading links
Preview the 11-page PDFHow to use this pack
Choose one game for one learning problem. Set up the space and roles, change one constraint, then observe who gets involved and which decisions emerge. Remove the constraint and check what carries into normal play.
Print a copy for courtside use, or keep it on your phone and tap a drill link for the full instructions. Use the blank planning sheet for your next session, then record one useful change after practice.
Two examples from the guide
Using the pack with your group
Do I need to understand coaching theory first?
No. Start with a problem you can see in practice, choose a small game and change one thing. The pack explains the approach in plain language and includes questions to help you observe and adjust.
Is this one complete practice plan?
It is a collection of six adaptable games, rather than a fixed session. Choose the ones that suit your players and learning focus, and use the blank constraint-design sheet to plan a round and review it.
Where can I learn more about the approach?
The pack links to public guidance from FIBA/WABC, Basketball England and Transforming Basketball. With thanks to Stroud Sharks Basketball Club for their input on player development and positive coaching.
From the free pack to your own playbook
Create animated drills. Share ideas across your club.
The PDFs give you a starting point. In Swish Planner, you can build and run a timed practice from your phone, then add the tools that fit how you coach.
- Pro: draw drills that move
- Create and edit animated diagrams with players, passes and movement. Play through your own drill or set step by step.
- Pro: reuse your best sessions
- Save session templates, plan a season and print practice plans so your ideas are ready for next time.
- Club: keep your coaches connected
- Share a private drill library and, when enabled, view and copy club team sessions. Club includes Pro for up to 25 coaches and your logo on printed plans.
New accounts get a 14-day Pro trial. No card needed. The core planning tools remain free.
Watch: 1v1 Through the Gate
Playback is free. Pro adds creating your own animated diagrams.
Open the full drillKeep a copy for your next practice
Free to download, print and use with your coaching staff.
More free coaching packs
- Team play basics pack — Youth coaches · U11–U16
- Mini basketball practice pack — Ages 6–10
- Youth basketball practice pack — Ages 11–14
- Practice planning cheat sheets — Youth coaches of all age groups
Prefer a web example? Read the original 60-minute practice plan.