Dribbling is a fundamental basketball skill that every player must master. In this guide, I’ll walk you through some key tips and progressions to improve your ball-handling ability. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to enhance your skills, these steps will help you dribble like a pro.
Introduction
Hi, I’m Jeff from Intricate Handles Basketball. Today, I’ll show you how to dribble a basketball for beginners. These tips will instantly improve your handles and provide progressions to advance your ball-handling ability. Don’t forget to subscribe to our channel and click the bell icon for more tips and tutorials!
Key Tip 1: Avoid Slapping the Basketball
One common mistake beginners make is slapping the basketball. Instead, focus on pushing the basketball and having a high ball-in-hand time. This means keeping the ball in your hand as long as possible during the dribble motion.
How to do it:
- Grip with Fingers: Spread your fingers wide and dig into the basketball for a good grip.
- Snap Your Wrist: At the end of each dribble, snap your wrist to ensure a solid push.
Key Tip 2: Start Slow, Then Speed Up
When starting, work on dribbling slowly but with a strong wrist and elbow snap at the end of the motion. This will help you control the ball better and give you a longer ball-in-hand time.
Practice:
- Slow Dribbles: Focus on the snap at the end.
- Fast Dribbles: Dribble quickly with a consistent snap motion.
Key Tip 3: Use Your Shoulders for Crossovers
For effective crossovers, use your shoulders to generate power, not just your wrist and elbow.
Practice:
- Swing Shoulders: When crossing over, swing your shoulders side to side.
- Keep Hands Low: Keep your hands close to the ground and to each other.
Key Tip 4: Look at the Ball (Initially)
Although coaches often advise not to look at the ball, it’s okay to do so when learning new moves. This helps you understand what went wrong if you lose control.
Practice:
- Look Down Initially: When practicing new moves, watch the ball until you get the feel for it.
- Head Up Later: Once you’re comfortable, keep your head up.
Key Tip 5: Proper Stance
Maintain a low stance with your butt down and feet apart. This lowers your hands to the ground and increases ball control.
Practice:
- Squat Stance: Bend your knees, keep your back straight, and get low.
- Lunge Stance: Alternate between squatting and lunging for better dribbling angles.
Key Tip 6: Footwork Matters
Effective footwork is crucial for game situations. Practice jabbing out with your feet while keeping the ball protected.
Practice:
- Jabs: Step out with the opposite or same-side foot while dribbling.
- Crossbody Jabs: Dribble with one hand while stepping out with the opposite foot.
Key Tip 7: Scissor Drills
Scissor drills help improve quickness and coordination.
Practice:
- Jump and Switch: Start with a wide stance and jump to switch
your foot positions. Keep your feet low to the ground and on the balls of your feet.
Practice:
- Jump Higher Initially: Jump higher at first to ensure you’re switching correctly.
- Lower Jumps: Gradually reduce the height of your jumps while keeping the motion smooth and quick.
Key Tip 8: Advanced Moves
Between-the-Legs Dribble
- Legs Apart: Keep your legs apart and your butt down to create a wide window for the ball.
- Swing Hand Through: Swing your hand through your legs to ensure the ball passes cleanly.
Behind-the-Back Dribble
- Two Methods:
- Squat Stance: Keep feet squared, swing shoulder, and flick the wrist.
- On the Move: Slap the opposite side of your butt to push the ball forward.
- Push Hard: Push the ball hard to maintain control without looking at it.
Spin Move
- Protect the Ball: Pull the ball back during the spin to prevent defenders from stealing it.
- Switch Hands: Switch hands as you complete the spin to maintain control.
Conclusion
Dribbling a basketball effectively takes practice and dedication. Start with the basics, master them, and gradually move to advanced techniques. Remember to stay low, use your fingers, and snap your wrist for better control. Incorporate these tips into your training, and you’ll see significant improvements in your ball-handling skills.
For more tips and a free workout to take your handles to the next level, click the top link in the description. Subscribe to our channel, click the bell icon for notifications, and stay tuned for more basketball tutorials. Make moves today!
