Game version
Dribble dance: put on a song and dribble until it stops, then freeze with the ball. A partner can pause the music, and everyone keeps playing.
Retreat Dribble and Pass
When pressured, back out with two dribbles to make a safer passing angle.
By Coach Evan Waechtler Youth coach (U11, Cache Valley, Utah) and founder of SSTracker Updated October 30, 2026
Set up
Dribble toward a partner who steps up to pressure you.
Core: Both hands. Beat your own best run without losing the ball.
- Ages
- 11 and up
- Time
- 10 min
- Players
- You and a partner
- Space
- Gym or court
- Bring
- Basketball, 2 cones, partner
- Level · skill
- Developing · Ball Handling
The steps
How it works
- Dribble toward a partner who steps up to pressure you.
- Take two quick retreat dribbles backward, keeping your body between them and the ball.
- Pass to a second spot your partner points at.
- Do 12 reps.
Coaching point
Back out, see the floor, pass.
Make it fun
Play it, don't drill it
Challenge
Pick a level: Less (strong hand), Core (both hands), More (eyes up while a partner shows you a number to call). Beat your own best run without losing the ball.
Story
You are a magician with a ball on an invisible string.
My best
Beat your own count
Beat your own best run without losing the ball. Only your own number counts: today against last time.
Practice makes progress
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