Give each player a marked home space. Show one bounce height, let everyone try, then change the instruction. In passing pairs, move close enough that the receiver can stay balanced while catching.
Keep both partners involved
Swap the leading role in mirror slides frequently. During passing, ask the receiver to show ready hands before every throw. Stop the whole group before changing partners so balls do not cross active lanes.
01
High-low stationary dribbling
Adapt bounce height without slapping or losing the ball.
Set up: Place players on individual spots with space to reach their arms out freely. Use existing visible markings for all spots and boundaries if flat markers are unavailable; choose another activity if the stated layout cannot be made clear.
Coach shows a low hand signal or a middle-height signal.
Players make three controlled bounces at the signaled height, then settle into their normal dribble.
Players suggest a signal sequence and the group tries it with each hand.
Coach’s cue: Push the ball gently toward the floor. Choose a height you can control.
Make it easier, add a challenge, and safety
Easier: Gather between each set of three bounces.
Harder: Change hands when the signal changes.
Keep it safe: Coach checks the surface and clear run-off space before starting; stop the activity if footing or spacing becomes unsafe. No contact or grabbing from another player. Pause for a loose ball entering another activity. Keep the high option below the player’s waist; stay on the personal spot. Keep spare balls and personal equipment outside all movement and collection paths.
02
Partner chest passing
Aim and judge passing force.
Group: 2–12 players · 1 adult per group
Equipment: 1 appropriately sized basketball per pair; 2 flat spots per pair (or equivalent visible existing markings) Time: 5–7 minutes
Set up: Partners face each other 2–3 m apart on flat spots. Use a comfortable ball size and clear passing lanes. For odd attendance, use one trio: the extra player observes from outside the active lane and rotates in after each attempt. Use existing visible markings for all spots and boundaries if flat markers are unavailable; choose another activity if the stated layout cannot be made clear.
Receiver catches, settles, and returns the ball only after the partner is ready.
After four each, partners choose to keep the gap or move one small step apart.
Coach’s cue: Pass to the ready hands. Step toward your partner.
Make it easier, add a challenge, and safety
Easier: Start closer or use a gentle bounce pass.
Harder: Ask the receiver to show a target slightly to either side.
Keep it safe: Coach checks the surface and clear run-off space before starting; stop the activity if footing or spacing becomes unsafe. No contact or grabbing from another player. Pause for a loose ball entering another activity. No forceful passes toward faces; stop if another person crosses the lane. Keep spare balls and personal equipment outside all movement and collection paths.
Set up: Mark two parallel 3 m tracks, 2 m apart. Partners face each other from separate tracks. For odd attendance, use one trio: the extra player observes from outside the active lane and rotates in after each attempt. Use existing visible markings for all spots and boundaries if flat markers are unavailable; choose another activity if the stated layout cannot be made clear.
Leader takes one or two controlled side steps along their track.
Partner follows along the other track without closing the gap.
After four changes, swap; each leader chooses movements their partner can follow.
Coach’s cue: Watch the middle of your partner. Keep steps short enough to stay balanced.
Make it easier, add a challenge, and safety
Easier: Move only one step at a time.
Harder: Add a pause before a direction change.
Keep it safe: Coach checks the surface and clear run-off space before starting; stop the activity if footing or spacing becomes unsafe. No contact or grabbing from another player. Pause for a loose ball entering another activity. No reaching, faking into the gap or rapid backpedaling. Keep spare balls and personal equipment outside all movement and collection paths.
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Recorded with a sample team and demonstration responses. Review activities and plans for your players before using them.
Questions coaches ask
Do 6-year-olds need a full-size basketball?
Choose a ball each child can hold, bounce and pass comfortably. If the ball forces a heave, use a smaller or lighter ball and reduce the distance.
Should these drills be races?
Begin without races. Look for a bounce under control, a pass within reach and a stop without bumping a partner. Add a simple shared target once those actions are reliable.
Where can I build a practice for my team?
Try the free practice generator for basketball. It uses 10 starter activities per sport. Coach adds the full drill library, saved and editable plans, team calendars and AI coaching help.