
In basketball, a high dribble is a technique where the ball is dribbled above shoulder height. There is some debate as to whether this constitutes a carry or violation, as the rules vary between different leagues and organizations. While some players argue that a high dribble is allowed as long as the hand stays above the ball, others claim that it is a carry if the ball rises above the shoulders or head. The NBA rulebook, for example, does not explicitly prohibit dribbling above the shoulder, but it does state that palming or carrying the ball occurs when it comes to rest in the player's hand and they dribble a second time. Ultimately, the interpretation of a high dribble as a carry or violation may depend on the specific context and the referee's discretion.
Characteristics of a High Dribble in Basketball
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Hand Position | On top of the ball |
| Ball Height | Above shoulders or head |
| Rules | No restriction on height in NBA, but may be a violation in college |
| Violation | May be called a carry or a turnover |
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What You'll Learn

Is a high dribble a carry/violation?
A high dribble is a dribbling technique in basketball. It is unclear whether a high dribble is a carry/violation as there are contradicting opinions on this topic. Some people believe that dribbling the ball high, such as above the shoulders or head, is a carry/violation, while others disagree. However, it is important to note that the rules of basketball may vary slightly across different leagues and organizations, such as the NBA, WNBA, NCAA, G-League, EuroLeague, and FIBA events.
A carry in basketball is considered an illegal act of dribbling a live ball. It occurs when a player allows the ball to come to rest in either hand before continuing to dribble. This is similar to double-dribbling, where the player picks up the ball mid-dribble without intending to, by slipping their hand under the ball, and then continues dribbling. To avoid a carry, players should keep their hands on the top or sides of the ball while dribbling and not underneath it.
The NBA has specific rules regarding violations and penalties. For example, a player is not allowed to run with the ball without dribbling it, and they cannot dribble a second time after voluntarily ending their first dribble. Additionally, a player who is dribbling is not allowed to put their hand under the ball and carry it from one point to another or bring it to a pause and then continue dribbling. These actions can result in a loss of possession, with the ball being awarded to the opposing team.
In conclusion, while there is no clear consensus on whether a high dribble is specifically a carry/violation, it is important for players to be aware of the rules regarding carrying and double-dribbling to avoid violations during a game.
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Is it allowed in college basketball?
A high dribble in basketball refers to dribbling the ball at a height that is close to or above the dribbler's head. There is some confusion as to whether or not this move is allowed in basketball games. Some sources claim that dribbling above the shoulder is a turnover, as it is easy for the opposing team to steal the ball. However, others argue that there is no restriction on how high a player may bounce the ball, as long as the ball does not come to rest in the player's hand and the hand stays on top of the ball.
In college basketball, the rules regarding high dribbling may vary depending on the specific league or organization. However, based on the available information, it appears that high dribbling is generally allowed as long as the player maintains control of the ball and does not carry it. Carrying occurs when the player's hand ends up on the bottom of the ball during the dribble, which is a violation and results in the ball being awarded to the opposing team.
It is important to note that the rules of basketball can vary slightly between different leagues and organizations. While high dribbling may be allowed in some leagues, it is always good practice to refer to the specific rulebook of the league or organization governing the game to confirm the exact regulations regarding dribbling and ball control.
Additionally, it is worth mentioning that while high dribbling may be legal, it can be a risky move as it makes it easier for the opposing team to steal the ball. Therefore, players should use this technique sparingly and only in situations where it is advantageous to do so.
In conclusion, high dribbling in college basketball is a move that requires skill and control. While it may be allowed in certain leagues, players should always prioritize maintaining control of the ball and adhering to the specific rules of the league in which they are playing.
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Is it allowed in the NBA?
A high dribble in basketball is a dribbling technique where the ball is bounced above the dribbler's head. There is some confusion as to whether or not this move is allowed in the NBA. While some people argue that it is a violation, others claim that there is no explicit rule prohibiting it.
The NBA's official rules state that a dribble is defined as the movement of the ball caused by a player in control who throws or touches it into the air or onto the floor. There is no mention of any height restrictions on dribbling in the NBA rules. Additionally, there is no restriction on how high a player may bounce the ball, provided that it does not come to rest in the player's hand. This suggests that a high dribble, as described, would be allowed as long as the player maintains control of the ball and does not cause it to come to rest in their hand.
However, it is important to note that a carry or double dribble violation can occur if a player dribbles with their hand on the bottom hemisphere of the ball or causes the ball to come to rest in their hand before dribbling again. This distinction is crucial, as a high dribble that results in a carry or double dribble would be a violation. Therefore, while a high dribble itself may not be explicitly prohibited, it could potentially lead to a violation if not executed properly.
Furthermore, a high dribble may increase the risk of the ball being stolen by an opponent, as it is easier for them to reach and intercept the ball when dribbled at a higher height. This strategic consideration may influence players' decisions on whether or not to employ a high dribble during a game.
In conclusion, while there is no explicit rule prohibiting a high dribble in the NBA, proper execution is crucial to avoid violations, and strategic considerations may also play a role in a player's decision to use this technique.
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What is the best technique?
To execute a high dribble, the player must keep their torso straight and push the top of the ball forward, ahead of their body. The bounce of the ball should be between the upper thigh and slightly above the waist. This technique is used when the player is trying to move the ball up the court very quickly, often after steals and during fast-break opportunities.
To master the high dribble, there are several techniques and drills to practice. Firstly, it is important to learn to dribble with both hands, without looking down at the ball. This means keeping your head up to observe the defensive players and locate your teammates. Use your fingertips, not your palm, to control the ball, and avoid bouncing it too high, as this will give you more control and make it harder for defenders to steal.
Additionally, you can practice the triple threat stance. This is a versatile stance where the player can pass, shoot, or start to dribble. To do this, bring the ball close to your body, grasp it with both hands, and keep a low stance with your elbows at a 90-degree angle. Another technique is the crossover, which is used to misdirect a defender. The player dribbles the ball in a "V" shape in front of their body, transferring it between their hands.
Drills are also an effective way to improve your high dribble. For example, you can line up on the baseline and dribble the full length of the court while practicing a specific dribbling move and keeping your head up. Each time you turn around, switch up the move. Another drill involves keeping a balloon in the air while dribbling; if the balloon hits the floor, you start over. This improves your ability to control the ball by forcing you to focus on the balloon instead of the basketball.
Remember, the more you practice, the better you will become at dribbling.
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What are other types of dribbles?
Dribbling is one of the most fundamental skills in basketball. While there is no concrete evidence that dribbling above one's head is a violation, it is generally discouraged as it makes it easy for the opponent to steal the ball. There are several types of dribbles that players can use to navigate the court and get past defenders. Here are some of them:
- Low Dribble: This is when you dribble with the ball close to the ground. This technique helps protect the ball from guards and limits the space an opponent can penetrate.
- Speed Dribble: This is used when a player has an open court. It involves taking advantage of time while maintaining good control of the ball and your body. It is often used when a player is heavily guarded, allowing them to make faster dribbles and gain some distance.
- Change of Pace Dribble: This dribble involves slowing down your motion to make your opponent think you are stopping or passing the ball.
- Control Dribble: This is used when a defender is guarding you closely. You maintain a crouched, bent-over position, keeping your body between the ball and the defender. The ball is kept low to the floor, behind and close to your body. Your other arm is straight out in front of you as a guard.
- Hockey Dribble: This involves a head and shoulder fake combination with an abrupt change of pace. It is used to divert a defender from a close guard.
- Reverse Dribble: This dribble is used to avoid an opponent from stealing the ball when you are strongly guarded. However, it may cause you to lose sight of the ball for a moment.
- Half-Reversed Dribble: Similar to the reverse dribble, but the player makes a quick 90-degree turn from their main position to prevent the opponent from catching the ball.
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Frequently asked questions
There are contradicting opinions on whether a high dribble in basketball is a carry/violation. Some people believe that dribbling the ball above the shoulders or head is a carry/violation, while others disagree. The NBA rulebook does not explicitly prohibit dribbling above the shoulder, but it is important to note that carrying or palming the ball is a violation. This occurs when the ball comes to rest in the player's hand and they dribble a second time.
The technique for a high dribble involves bouncing the ball above shoulder height or even close to, or over, the player's head. The player must keep their hand on top of the ball to maintain control and avoid a violation.
Yes, there are several types of dribbling techniques in basketball, including the high dribble. Other types of dribbles include the low dribble, crossover dribble, in and out dribble, and change of pace dribble. Each technique serves a different purpose and can be used strategically during a game.











































