Dribbling Fundamentals
Dribbling the ball is one of the very basic elements of the game. Kids two years old want to dribble (the ball)! Proper technique must be learned early. Bad habits can form and are hard to overcome. The key elements are: keep the head up, "feel" the ball, be under control, keep the dribble alive and learn to use both hands. There are many different methods to dribble so let's take a look at some of them.
Crossover Dribble
Technique: switching the ball from one side of the body to the other. Dribble the ball low, switch hands as you dribble and keep the dribble. Start in the right hand, ball on the side and step back with the left foot and switch the ball to the left hand. Remember to not look at the ball.
The Reverse Dribble
Technique: move toward the defender, come to a jab step at the defender. Step with the opposite leg that you have the ball. So if you have the ball in the right hand, step with left at the defender. Pivot on the left foot, stay low and turn your back on your defender, keep the dribble, step with the right, swing the left switch the ball to the left and keep going. Continue the dribble now in the left hand. Practice this using a chair as a defender. Remember not to cradle or palm the ball as you switch hands.
The Change-Of-Pace Dribble or Doc Rivers Dribble
Technique: slow your dribble down look like you are going to relax or stop your forward movement, straighten up as if you are looking for a teammate to pass to, but still keep your dribble, then erupt with the dribble, pushing hard and fast up the floor. The ball is pushed ahead of you and you blow past the defender. It is called the Doc Rivers dribble as he was one of the best at using it.
The Behind-The-Back Dribble
Technique: dribble with your right hand, slide your palm to the outside
of the ball, push it behind and behind you, using one dribble to help it cross
behind. Switch the ball to the left hand and keep the dribble. This takes
practice and needs to be used in the right situations. It is a good way to
beat a defender, similar to the crossover dribble.
Dribbling Tips of the Trade:
1. Get a feel for the ball. Balls are made differently by ball manufacturers.
Some have wide channels, some more tacky and some have a rough feel.
2. Learn to dribble the ball equally well with either hand.
3. Keep the knees bent in proper basketball position..
3. Try not to look at the ball. It is on your hand so you know where it is.
Keep your head up to find an open teammate.
4. Do not dribble unless you have somewhere to go.
5. Avoid catching and dribbling right away. You take away one of the "threats".