Dribbling 101: Hone the Basics “Skilled ball handlers can dribble with either hand to prevent weak sides and opportunities for attack.” - DRIBBLE DUPPER

You cannot do without dribbling in the game. Like passing, it is a way to move and advance the ball up and around the court. By Gordon McLeod, Head Coach, Singapore Slingers.

Dribbling is the most misused basic fundamental in basketball. Players can perform better when they understand why and when to dribble effectively. A pass travels much faster than a dribble and so before you dribble, see the ground and pass to open team mates in a better position.


Too much Rambo dribbling tends to make the rest of the team stand and stare. The defence’s job is also much easier. The Rambo dribbler will also have the high chance of missing a score or a pass to another team player.


If you want to dribble, do it with a purpose and a destination. Do not waste it.

Dribbling is a vital part of the game because it allows you to move the ball up and around the court by yourself.

Dribble is used in basketball to:
1.Advance the ball up the court and evade pressure by defenders to get your team into the team offence.

2.Create scoring opportunities.

3.Move the ball out of pressure situations when it is impossible to pass the ball to a team mate, especially when you are being double-teamed in a trapping defence.


HOW TO DRIBBLE
Start by dribbling in a stationary position to correctly use your fingers and wrist to control the ball. First master the ability to dribble without looking at the ball before tackling more difficult moves off the dribble.

Advance to learn to keep your head and eyes up at all times to see your team mates and the play.



-->Start in a seated position with your legs together and straight out in front of you. Your head up and looking forward.


-->Straighten your arm with the basketball sitting on your hand face up.

-->Roll your wrist over and start to dribble the ball using only your finger pads and not the palm of your hand.

-->Flex your wrist down when the ball comes in contact with your fingers to keep the ball moving and in control. The ball should feel like an extension of your hand and you should be dribbling the ball no more than six to ten inches off the ground to maintain control.

->Flex your wrist down when the ball comes in contact with your fingers to keep the ball moving and in control. The ball should feel like an extension of your hand and you should be dribbling the ball no more than six to ten inches off the ground to maintain control.

-->To change sides and dribble with your other hand, continue to dribble while you lift one leg and then the other. Continue to bounce the ball underneath your legs until the ball is on the other side of your body and you are dribbling with your other hand.

-->(a)Continue to change the ball from one side to the other using your fingers and wrist dribbling action while maintaining your balance and keeping your head and eyes up.
(b)As you start to master this drill, increase the speed at which you can execute.
(C)This drill will test your balance, coordination and teach you the correct finger and wrist action to control and dribble the basketball.