Sharp ball-handling skills and dribbling fundamentals gives an offensive player a decisive advantage over the defensive players. It is important to learn the skill to use which type of dribble in a given situation. Some types of dribbles are designed to advance the ball quickly up the court, while others allow you to go past your defender. With all types of dribbles, it is important to keep your head up so that you can see teammates when they have scoring opportunities.
High Bounce
The high dribble is used when the player is trying to move the ball up the court very quickly. Typically, players will see high dribbles after steals and during fast-break opportunities. To execute a high dribble, the player keeps his/her torso erect and pushes the top of the ball forward, well ahead of the body. The bounce of the ball should reach anywhere from between your upper thigh to slightly above your waist.
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Change of Pace
A change of pace dribble is used to cause the defensive player to lose his/her balance as the player moves the ball forward with a high dribble. The change of pace occurs when you slow the momentum moving the ball forward and relaxing the torso. The defender, thinking that the player is slowing down, goes back on his/her heels. Which results in the offensive player accelerating past the defender.
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Crossover
If the defender is making a strong attempt to prevent the attacking player from going right or left, using a crossover dribble can be effective. For example, if your defender is trying to prevent you from going to your right, you would perform a crossover dribble to your left. To do so, flick the ball across your body from your right hand to your left hand, while simultaneously moving your right foot across your body to your left. It is important to keep your body low; your dribble should be no higher than your knees. Accelerate past your defender by pushing off with your left foot.
Between the Legs
The between the legs dribble is used to go past a defender who is overplaying you. If you are going left, begin with rapid low dribbles with your right hand. Take a deep step forward with your left foot and flick the ball through your legs to your left hand. Keep your body low as you move forward to your left.
Behind the Back
If you want to change directions while keeping a good view of the entire court, a behind the back dribble can be effective. If you want to move to your left, begin dribbling with your right hand. To execute this dribble you need to place your hand on the side of the ball. Step forward with your left foot while simultaneously wrapping the ball behind your back, across the back of your thighs, and flick the ball toward your left hand. Be sure to plant your right foot before stepping forward with your left foot.
