Ayrton Oneill
Passing is one of the most under-taught skills in basketball, but it is a primary skill that all players should master. The bounce pass is one of the most basic moves in the game and can be used to unlock passing angles that would not otherwise be possible. It is a pass thrown with the same motion as a chest pass, but aimed at the floor so that it bounces to the intended receiver. This guide will take you through the steps to teach a bounce pass, covering the technique, when to use it, and how to improve your passing skills.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Number of hands | One or two hands, depending on the defender's position |
| Distance | Best used over short distances with a single opponent between the passer and the receiver |
| Stance | Step forward with either foot (preferably the dominant foot) |
| Body posture | Keep your back straight and slightly tilt your upper body forward for maximum power |
| Ball placement | Start with the ball at chest level |
| Ball release | Push off with your back foot and release the ball with both hands |
| Ball bounce | Aim for the ball to bounce at waist height of the receiver, around three-quarters of the way to the receiver |
| Eyes | Use your eyes to fake out the defender and avoid committing turnovers |
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What You'll Learn
When to use a bounce pass
Bounce passes are best used in tight spaces and shorter distances, especially when there is a single opponent between you and your teammate. In this situation, a bounce pass can unlock passing angles that might not have been possible with a direct chest pass.
If there is a defender standing between you and your target, you want the ball to touch the floor right next to them. This makes it difficult for the opponent to intercept the pass and puts the ball in an optimal position for your teammate to receive it.
If there is no defender and you are passing over a longer distance, the ball should bounce around two-thirds of the way to your target, so that it rises to your teammate's chest level.
Bounce passes can also be used to feed the post, swing the ball, or hit a backdoor cutter.
Remember, there's a time and place for everything, including the bounce pass. Players should always take a quick moment to consider whether a bounce pass is their best option before throwing it.
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How to hold the ball
Holding the ball correctly is crucial for executing an accurate bounce pass. The first step is to position the ball at chest level, with both hands holding the sides of the ball and elbows tucked in tight next to the torso. This initial position is shared by the chest pass, another fundamental passing technique in basketball.
When preparing to initiate the bounce pass, take a step forward with either foot, preferably your dominant one. As you step forward, push off with your back foot while simultaneously releasing the ball with both hands. This movement provides power and helps the pass reach its target faster.
For maximum power, it is important to maintain a straight back while slightly leaning your upper body forward. The wrists also play a crucial role in generating power. As you release the ball, snap your wrists to throw the ball forward and down into the floor, ensuring it bounces to your teammate. Finish with your arms extended in front of you, at thigh height.
The bounce pass is most effective over short distances, especially when there is an opponent between you and your teammate. In this situation, the ball should touch the floor right next to the defender, making it difficult for them to intercept. If there is no defender, and you are passing over a longer distance, aim for the ball to bounce around two-thirds of the way to your teammate, so it rises to their chest level.
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Footwork
The first step in performing a bounce pass is to position yourself with the ball held at chest level, with both hands on the sides of the ball and elbows tucked into the torso. This initial stance provides a stable foundation for the pass.
Next, take a step forward with either foot, preferably your dominant foot, toward your intended target. This step not only generates power but also helps guide the direction of the pass. It's important to note that you can choose which foot to step with based on your preference and comfort.
As you step forward, simultaneously push off with your back foot to gain additional momentum and power for the pass. This push-off helps transfer your body weight into the pass, adding force to the ball's release.
While stepping forward, extend your arms and snap your wrists to impart a downward motion on the ball, causing it to bounce toward your teammate. This wrist action is crucial for generating the desired bounce. Finish the passing motion with your arms in front of your body, at about thigh height.
When determining the ideal bounce for the ball, consider the presence of defenders. If a defender is positioned between you and your target, aim for the ball to touch the floor right next to the defender. This makes it challenging for the defender to intercept and increases the chances of a successful pass.
If there is no defender and you're passing over a longer distance, adjust the bounce so that the ball travels approximately two-thirds to three-quarters of the way to your target. This ensures the ball bounces up to your teammate's waist or chest level, making it easier for them to receive the pass.
Remember, the footwork involved in the bounce pass helps generate power and accuracy. Practicing this technique will enable you to make crisp, well-timed passes that reach their target quickly and effectively.
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Body position
To perform a bounce pass, players must start with the correct body position. The ball should be held with both hands at chest level, with the elbows tucked into the torso. The player should then take a step forward with either foot, preferably their dominant foot, while pushing off with the back foot. As they step forward, the ball should be released with both hands, with the arms fully extended and thumbs pointing towards the floor.
The upper body should be slightly tilted forward, with the back straight, to generate maximum power. This stance is crucial for a powerful pass, ensuring the ball reaches its target as quickly as possible.
When deciding where to bounce the ball, players should consider the position of the defender. If a defender is blocking the path to the teammate, the ball should bounce at a point that will be difficult for the defender to reach, minimizing the chance of a turnover. Ideally, the ball should bounce waist-high for the receiver, around three-quarters of the way between the passer and their teammate.
If there is no defender, and the pass is over a longer distance, the ball should bounce around two-thirds of the way to the target. This ensures the ball reaches the optimal height for the receiver to catch it.
Players should be mindful of their body position throughout the pass, ensuring their arms follow through and their thumbs point towards the floor. This maximizes the power and accuracy of the pass, reducing the risk of it being intercepted.
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One-handed vs two-handed bounce pass
The bounce pass is a fundamental skill in basketball that players should learn early on in their basketball journey. It is a pass that bounces off the floor, as opposed to an air pass, which is thrown directly to a teammate.
Bounce passes can be performed with one or two hands, depending on the situation. A one-handed pass allows for more freedom of movement and can be used to creatively pass around defenders. It is also useful when you need to get the ball out of your hands quickly. However, a two-handed pass may be more suitable when passing to the opposite side, as it allows for extra power and touch. It is also the preferred option for coaches, who may dislike the "flashy" aspect of the one-handed pass.
To execute a one-handed bounce pass, you can dribble towards your teammate, triggering an automatic backdoor cut to the rim. This is especially effective when defenders have their hands high. You can then throw the one-handed dribble bounce pass, which will go below the hands of the defenders, creating a high-percentage scoring opportunity.
For a two-handed bounce pass, start with the ball at your chest, step towards your teammate, and push the ball with your wrists to your teammate. This type of pass is crisp and direct, reducing the chance of a turnover.
While the one-handed pass offers more maneuverability, the two-handed pass is more powerful. Both types of passes have their advantages and are useful in different situations. It is important to learn the proper passing technique before improvising with one-handed passes.
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Frequently asked questions
A bounce pass is a fundamental pass in basketball that involves throwing the ball to the floor so that it bounces to the intended receiver. It is best used in tight spaces when you are passing to a teammate who is being guarded.
A bounce pass should be used when there is an opponent between you and your teammate. It should be used sparingly and only when a chest pass is not possible.
To execute a bounce pass, first, hold the ball with both hands at chest level. Next, take a step forward with either foot and push off with your back foot. As you step forward, release the ball with both hands, keeping your thumbs pointing towards the floor.
The ball should be thrown far enough so that it bounces to the receiver at waist height. Some recommend that the ball hits the ground three-quarters of the way to your teammate.
It is important to be aware of your teammates and opponents' positions on the court. If there is a defender between you and your teammate, use your feet to step around them and use your eyes to fake them out. Practice makes perfect, so be sure to drill this skill!
