Basketball Drills To Teach Moving Without The Ball
One of the most important factors to be successful in basketball is the ability to move without the ball. Players who can move effectively without the ball are more likely to get open and score points. In this article, we will look at some basketball drills that can help players improve their movements without the ball.
1. Three Man Weave
This drill is a great way to teach players how to move without the ball while running up and down the court. To do the three-man weave, three players start at one end of the court, with one player holding the ball. The player with the ball passes to the second player and then runs in front of the second player. The second player passes to the third player and runs in front of the third player. The third player then passes the ball back to the first player and runs in front of the first player. The drill continues in this manner, with each player running in front of the player who passes the ball to them. This drill helps players work on their timing, communication, and conditioning.
2. Cutthroat
This is a competitive drill that can help players learn how to move without the ball in a game-like situation. To start, divide the players into three teams of three or four players each. Each team has a half-court to attack and defend. The aim of the game is to score as many baskets as possible within a set time limit. The team with the least points at the end of each round is eliminated until only one team remains. Players have to move around the court without the ball to get open and score points. This drill helps players work on their offensive and defensive movements, as well as their communication and decision-making skills under pressure.
3. Circle Cut Drill
This drill is designed to teach players how to make cuts and move without the ball in a half-court situation. To start the drill, the coach or a player stands at the top of the key with the ball. The other four players form a circle around the key. The player with the ball passes to one of the players in the circle, and that player immediately cuts towards the basket. The other players in the circle have to move around to create space for the cutting player. The cutting player then receives the ball and takes a shot. The drill continues in this manner, with each player taking a turn to cut towards the basket. This drill helps players work on their cutting and movement without the ball in a half-court situation.
4. 5-on-0 Motion Offense Drill
This drill is designed to teach players how to move without the ball in a five-man motion offense. To start the drill, the coach calls out a set play, and the players have to execute it without a defender. The aim of the drill is to work on the players' movements and timing within the offense. The coach can vary the set plays to keep the players engaged and to work on different aspects of their movements without the ball. This drill helps players work on their offensive movements, their decision-making skills, and their communication within a five-man motion offense.
Conclusion
Moving without the ball is a crucial skill for any basketball player. These drills are designed to help players improve their movements without the ball in different game situations. By practicing these drills, players can develop their timing, communication, decision-making skills, and conditioning. Coaches should incorporate these drills into their training sessions to help their players become more effective and efficient in moving without the ball.
