Basketball drills and fundamentals for young players

Basketball is a fun, popular sport, and many young people are interested in learning and playing the game. Countless training camps of different tiers are being held all over the world, both by seasoned professional players, teams, and coaches. But one thing is for sure: everyone starts with the basics. Here are some beginning drills for committed young players.

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The first thing to develop is form shooting. This drill is slow and methodical, but nonetheless crucial in promoting muscle memory among young players. Whether via one-hand or two-hand form shooting, this is done near the basket, as close as the layup area. Constant form shooting practice should develop one’s ability to take the shot following actual game pace. Shane Battier used to warm up with 50 one foot shots when playing for the Memphis Grizzlies. One critical thinking point is the mental aspect of shooting. When executing a shooting drill each shot must have the player mentally say “I’m going to make it” when releasing the ball.

Dribbling two balls is another important fundamental to learn early on, as it improves ball-handling especially on the weak hand, freeing up the player to focus more on in-game decisions. A lot of young players can dribble on their dominant hand, but clever defensive plays by opponents force them to freeze their dribble and prevent a designed play from being realized. Young players can begin with pounding the balls, then progress to in-and-out dribbling as well as between-the-legs and behind-the-back. If a player can dribble the ball, they can play with any talent level.

The wall-passing drill teaches players, especially ball-handling guards, to pass with both hands. Players will learn how to put a spin when passing, whether doing a chest pass, bounce pass, or overhead pass. To maximize this drill, players should stand about 15 feet in front of a cement or brick wall and practice these passing drills.

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Players will eventually have to play one-on-one basketball to develop both their offensive and defensive stance. While matchup is important in actual games, playing with bigger, bulkier opponents will help young players develop their overall stamina, as well adjust better to opponents. Setting rules such as dribbling limits or doing only layups develop both their strength and skills.

Bob Mims CPA is a former basketball coach and now a sports and fitness aficionado. He is also an ardent follower of SEC Conference college football and a huge fan of the University of Mississippi (Ole Miss) Rebels. More reads on sports and fitness here.