Andrew Pace
Dribbling is a fundamental skill in basketball, but it is not always the best way to move the ball around the court. When faced with a press, a player should avoid dribbling and instead focus on passing the ball to create space and take advantage of the opponent's overplay. This is because dribbling against a press can lead to a loss of possession due to increased pressure and the risk of committing violations such as double dribbling, carrying, or travelling. Therefore, it is crucial for players to understand the principles of beating a press and making quick decisions on the court, rather than solely relying on a press break.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| When not to dribble | Against a team press |
| How to counter a press | Pass the ball to a teammate |
| How to counter a hard-pressing defender | Wait for the defender to commit and then move the ball |
| How to counter a zone trap/press | Set a screen in the backcourt to get the ball up quickly |
| How to practice against a press | Use a single partner drill with the team's best on-ball defender |
| How to move the ball without dribbling | Use screens or space the floor |
| How to avoid a double dribble | Don't dribble a second time after voluntarily ending the first dribble |
| How to avoid a carrying violation | Don't let the ball come to rest in one hand before dribbling again |
| How to avoid a three-in-a-row violation | Don't have the receiver stand in a line between their defender and the passer |
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What You'll Learn
Passing is often better than dribbling
Additionally, dribbling requires a lot of practice and skill to execute effectively. It can leave you vulnerable to defenders, especially if you are not comfortable with the ball or your stance is unbalanced. Losing control of the ball while dribbling can result in a turnover or a violation, such as a double dribble or travelling.
Passing, on the other hand, can be a safer option as it keeps the ball moving and can create opportunities for your teammates. It is also important to note that against a zone trap or press, a well-executed pass can quickly break down the defence and create scoring chances.
However, this is not to say that dribbling is never useful. Dribbling can be an effective way to create space, invite a double team, and then either re-attack or pass to a teammate with an advantage. It is also a key skill to have in your arsenal, as it allows you to assess the court and your defenders while keeping the ball protected.
In conclusion, while dribbling has its uses, passing is often the better option in many game situations. It is faster, safer, and can create more opportunities for your team to score.
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Use teammates to set screens or create space
When facing a basketball press, it is important to use your teammates effectively to set screens or create space. This can help you get past defenders and create scoring opportunities. Here are some ways to achieve this:
Setting Screens
A screen, also known as a pick, is when a teammate uses their body to block or separate a defender from the person they are guarding. This creates space for a teammate to shoot, attack the basket, or pass the ball without defensive intrusion. To set an effective screen, use a wide and grounded stance with your feet slightly wider than shoulder-width apart and bend your knees slightly. This will help you take up more space and maintain your position when the defender makes contact. Use your arms to protect your torso and midsection during the screen. After making contact with the defender, you can roll to the basket for a possible layup or move to the perimeter for a shot attempt.
Creating Space
Teammates can also help create space on the court by utilizing proper spacing. This means spreading out on the court so that there is room to pass and drive to the basket. Against a press, it is important to move the ball quickly and use passes to advance it up the court. By having teammates spaced out, you create more passing options and make it harder for the defense to intercept passes. Additionally, proper spacing can help create driving lanes to the basket, allowing for easier scoring opportunities.
Types of Screens
There are several types of screens that can be used in a basketball game, including down screens and flare screens. In a down screen, the screener sets a pick near the baseline, allowing a teammate to move off the screen for a jump shot, often from behind the three-point line. Flare screens involve setting a pick near the top of the key, creating space for a teammate to shoot from the perimeter. Another type is the pick-and-roll, where the screen is set directly on the defender of the ball handler, who can then attack the basket or pass to the screening teammate.
Strategies Against a Press
When facing a press, it is important to move the ball quickly and not try to dribble through the entire defense. Use your teammates as outlets to pass the ball and advance it up the court. If facing a defender who is pressing hard, wait for them to commit and then make a move to beat them. You can also use screens to counter pressure by anticipating the overplay and taking advantage of it. Against a zone trap or press, you can ask a teammate to set a screen in the backcourt to help advance the ball quickly.
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Avoid indecisiveness
Indecisiveness is a major pitfall when it comes to basketball presses. It is important to be decisive and confident when facing a press, as hesitation can lead to crucial seconds being lost and provide an opportunity for the opposing team to gain an advantage. Here are some strategies to avoid indecisiveness during a basketball press:
Firstly, players should be aware of their options and make quick decisions. When facing a press, a player might choose to dribble, pass, or shoot the ball. Assess the court and the defence, and make a decision that will advance your team's position. For example, if dribbling to the hoop means going through multiple defenders, it is often better to pass the ball to a teammate who has a better chance of making a shot. Being aware of your teammates' positions and the defence's movements will help you make quicker decisions.
Secondly, practice and familiarity with different press breaks are key. Drills and exercises that simulate game situations can help players become more comfortable and confident when facing a press. This includes practising against various types of presses, such as a zone trap/press or a double team press. By experiencing different press situations, players can develop a better understanding of how to react and make quicker decisions during a game.
Additionally, players should learn to use their teammates effectively. Teammates can help by setting screens or creating space on the floor, allowing for give-and-go plays. Communicating with teammates and anticipating their movements will help players make quicker decisions and avoid hesitation. Knowing that your teammates are there to support you can also boost your confidence in deciding on a course of action.
It is also important to remember that dribbling is not always the best option when facing a press. In some cases, passing the ball can be a faster and more effective strategy to advance the ball and create scoring opportunities. Players should be decisive in their passing and not hesitate to give up the ball when it is in the team's best interest.
Lastly, players should be committed to their actions. Whether it is a dribble, a pass, or a shot, players should execute their decisions with confidence and purpose. Hesitation or second-guessing can lead to crucial mistakes and give the opposing team an advantage. Trust in your abilities and your teammates, and commit to your chosen course of action to maintain momentum and keep the defence on their toes.
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Don't dribble with your back or side to the basket for more than 5 seconds
When playing basketball, it is important to be aware of the rules and techniques surrounding dribbling, especially when under pressure from the opposing team. One such rule states that an offensive player in their frontcourt below the free-throw line extended should not dribble with their back or side to the basket for more than five seconds. This is known as the five-second violation.
To understand this rule, we must first define the terms involved. The frontcourt of a team refers to the part of the court between its end line and the nearer edge of the midcourt line, including the basket and inbounds part of the backboard. When a player is dribbling, the ball is considered to be in the frontcourt when both of the player's feet are in the frontcourt. On the other hand, the dribble is considered to be in the backcourt if either the ball or the player's foot is in the backcourt.
Now, let's delve into the specifics of the "don't dribble with your back or side to the basket for more than five seconds" rule:
- An offensive player in their frontcourt below the free-throw line extended should be mindful of their positioning while dribbling.
- If the player finds themselves with their back or side facing the basket, they must change their dribbling direction or pass the ball within five seconds.
- The count of five seconds ends when the player picks up the ball, dribbles above the free-throw line extended, or a defensive player deflects the ball away.
- Failure to adhere to this rule results in a penalty, and the offending team loses possession of the ball.
To avoid committing this violation, players can employ various techniques:
- Be aware of your surroundings and the position of the basket.
- Maintain a low, defensive stance with your feet shoulder-width apart and knees bent. This will help protect the ball and give you mobility.
- Use dribbling techniques such as dribbling between your legs to assess the court and protect the ball.
- Practice dribbling drills to improve your speed, comfort, and handling under pressure.
- Learn to anticipate and take advantage of the defender's overplay.
- Make quick decisions and commit to your moves to avoid indecisiveness, which can be detrimental against a pressing defence.
- Pass the ball instead of trying to dribble through a pressing defence.
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Practice drills to improve dribbling under pressure
Dribbling is an essential skill in basketball, and dribbling drills can help improve a player's ball control, hand-eye coordination, and agility. Here are some practice drills that can help players improve their dribbling under pressure:
The Figure 8 Drill
This drill helps players improve their ball handling and coordination. Start with your feet spread apart and the ball in your right hand. Then, dribble the ball through your legs to your left hand and immediately dribble it back to your right hand. Repeat this motion several times to enhance your agility and improve your ball control.
The Cone Drill
Set up six to eight cones in a straight line, 6 to 7 feet apart from one another. The goal is to dribble past a defender without going outside the cones. This drill helps create space and improves dribbling through contact. It also helps players develop lateral speed and comfort when facing defensive pressure.
The Push-Pull Drill
This drill helps players learn better ball handling and transition skills. Stand with your legs slightly bent and push and pull the ball from one side of your body to the other using the same hand. This emphasizes dribble manipulation and helps players maintain control under pressure.
The Partner Drill
For this drill, you'll need a partner and three basketballs. Start by dribbling two basketballs and passing the ball in your left hand to your partner. Then, dribble the ball in your right hand to your left, and your partner will throw you a ball. Continue dribbling and passing the balls back and forth, improving your ball handling while changing directions.
The Chair Drill
Place a chair on the court and dribble towards it, performing a crossover or going behind the back as you advance past the chair. The chair serves as a defender, and this drill helps players improve their speed and agility when facing defensive pressure.
The Baseline Drill
For this drill, start from a corner baseline with the ball, and your defender directly in front. Dribble forward diagonally towards the center court while your defender tries to pestering you. Anytime you feel almost caught, hard cut with a cross, spin, or behind-the-back move, and switch directions. This drill helps players develop lateral speed and comfort when dribbling under pressure.
Remember, it's important to first master the basics of dribbling and then incorporate these drills into your regular practice sessions to see significant improvements.
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Frequently asked questions
Dribbling during a basketball press is not always the best way to move the ball around the court. Passing can be much faster and can be used to misdirect the opposing team.
Teammates should help by setting screens or spacing the floor to give-and-go. Anticipate the overplay and take advantage of it.
The pull-back dribble can be used to invite the double team. Then, re-attack in space or pass out of the double team. The crossover can also be used to shake a defender.
One drill involves starting from a corner baseline with the ball, and a defender directly in front. Dribble forward diagonally towards the center court while the defender pesters you. Anytime you feel almost caught, hard cut with a cross, spin, or behind-the-back move.
In the frontcourt, below the free throw line extended, a player shall not dribble with their back or side to the basket for more than five seconds.
