10 Basketball Passing Drills

Introduction Basketball Passing Drills

Basketball passing drills are fundamental to the development of any basketball player. Passing is a critical skill that enhances teamwork, ball movement, and overall game strategy. Mastering passing drills helps players improve their accuracy, timing, and coordination, leading to more effective and fluid gameplay.

Basic Passing Techniques

Before diving into specific drills, it’s essential to understand the basic passing techniques:

Chest Pass

The chest pass is the most common and fundamental pass in basketball. It involves passing the ball from your chest directly to your teammate’s chest with a quick, snapping motion of the wrists.

Bounce Pass

The bounce pass is useful for passing around defenders. It requires bouncing the ball on the floor so it reaches your teammate at waist level.

Overhead Pass

The overhead pass is used to pass the ball over a defender. It involves holding the ball with both hands over your head and throwing it to your teammate with a strong wrist flick.

Drill 1: Stationary Passing

Objectives: Improve accuracy and technique in a controlled setting.

Steps:

1. Stand facing your partner, about 10 feet apart.
2. Pass the ball back and forth using chest passes.
3. Focus on form and follow through.

Key Points: Keep your feet planted, use a quick wrist snap, and aim for your partner’s chest.

Drill 2: Partner Passing

Objectives: Enhance accuracy and communication between players.

Steps:

1. Pair up with a teammate.
2. Stand about 15 feet apart.
3. Pass the ball using chest passes and bounce passes alternately.

Key Points: Communicate with your partner, maintain eye contact, and ensure crisp, accurate passes.

Drill 3: Passing on the Move

Objectives: Improve passing accuracy while moving.

Steps:

1. Form two lines facing each other about 20 feet apart.
2. Players jog slowly towards each other, passing the ball back and forth.
3. Increase speed as you get more comfortable.

Key Points: Focus on accuracy, keep moving, and communicate with your partner.

Drill 4: Three-Man Weave

Objectives: Enhance teamwork and passing under pressure.

Steps:

1. Form three lines at the baseline.
2. Player in the middle starts with the ball.
3. Pass to the player on the right, follow your pass, and fill the next spot.
4. Continue the pattern down the court.

Key Points: Move quickly, communicate, and maintain accuracy.

Drill 5: Full-Court Passing

Objectives: Improve long-range passing and game transition skills.

Steps:

1. Pair up and stand at opposite baselines.
2. Pass the ball back and forth while running towards each other.
3. Increase the speed and length of passes.

Key Points: Focus on long, accurate passes and maintain speed.

Advanced Passing Drills

No-Look Pass

This pass involves looking away from the receiver to mislead the defense while passing accurately.

Behind-the-Back Pass

This stylish pass involves passing the ball behind your back to a teammate, often used to surprise defenders.

Wrap Around Pass

The wrap around pass is used when a defender is very close, wrapping the ball around them to get it to your teammate.

Drill 6: No-Look Passing Drill

Objectives: Improve deception and accuracy.

Steps:

1. Stand with a partner about 10 feet apart.
2. Practice passing while looking away from your target.
3. Increase speed and distance as you improve.

Key Points: Focus on peripheral vision and maintain pass accuracy.

Drill 7: Behind-the-Back Passing Drill

Objectives: Enhance control and surprise element in passing.

Steps:

1. Pair up and stand 10 feet apart.
2. Pass the ball behind your back to your partner.
3. Practice stationary, then incorporate movement.

Key Points: Maintain control, practice frequently, and ensure accuracy.

Drill 8: Wrap Around Passing Drill

Objectives: Improve close-quarter passing under pressure.

Steps:

1. Stand close to a partner, simulating a defender.
2. Practice wrapping the ball around your partner to another teammate.
3. Switch roles regularly.

Key Points: Focus on quick wrist movements and accurate placement.

Team Passing Drills

Objectives: Foster teamwork and improve collective passing skills.

Benefits: These drills enhance overall team cohesion and passing fluency.

Drill 9: Circle Passing Drill

Objectives: Improve quick passing and team coordination.

Steps:

1. Form a circle with 5-6 players.
2. Pass the ball quickly around the circle.
3. Incorporate multiple balls for added difficulty.

Key Points: Keep passes quick, maintain communication, and stay alert.

Drill 10: Five-Man Passing Drill

Objectives: Enhance passing and movement in a team setting.

Steps:

1. Form a line of five players.
2. Pass the ball down the line and back, keeping the ball moving.
3. Incorporate movement after passing.

Key Points: Focus on quick, accurate passes and constant movement.

Conclusion

Passing is an essential skill in basketball that requires regular practice and dedication. By incorporating these drills into your training regimen, you can improve your passing accuracy, speed, and teamwork. Remember, consistency is key to mastering any skill in basketball. Keep practicing, and you’ll see significant improvements in your game.