Purpose
Helps players warm-up and get a better feel for handling the ball.
Drill Setup
- Each player has a ball and 3-5 feet of space around him.
How it Works
Coach takes the players through a series of ballhandling drill:
Ball Wraps – players move ball around the head. Then around the waist. Then around both legs. Then around each individual leg. Repeat each variation for 30 seconds, then repeat going in the opposite direction.
Figure 8 – pass the ball around one leg, through the legs, then around the other leg, forming a figure 8 pattern. Repeat for 30-60 seconds, then reverse direction.
Figure 8 Dribble – repeat the figure 8 pattern, this time dribbling the ball around and through your legs. . Repeat for 30-60 seconds, then reverse direction
Lying on Your Back – Start by sitting down while dribbling the ball beside your hip. Slowly lie down until your back is flat on the floor, keeping the dribble going. Repeat for 30 seconds, sit back up, transfer the ball to the other hand and repeat
Coaching Tips
Ways to make this drill harder:
- Close your eyes
- Wear mittens or garden gloves
- Use a slightly deflated or worn out basketball