🟢 Drill Library • Dribbling • K–5
Youth Basketball Dribbling Drills (K–5)
Dribbling is the first real skill young players develop. These drills focus on control, confidence, and keeping the head up.
3 dribbling drills to run today
1) Stationary Pound Dribble
- Players spread out with one ball each.
- Dribble hard with the right hand for 20 seconds.
- Switch to the left hand.
- Focus on control instead of speed.
Coach cue: “Use your fingertips.”
2) Red Light Green Light
- Players dribble from baseline toward half court.
- Coach calls “green light” to go.
- Coach calls “red light” and players must stop quickly.
- Players who lose control reset and continue.
Coach cue: “Stop on two feet.”
3) Zig-Zag Dribble
- Set cones in a zig-zag pattern.
- Players dribble around each cone.
- Encourage low dribbles at each turn.
- Alternate right and left hand.
Coach cue: “Stay low at the cone.”
Dribbling teaching points (K–5)
Eyes Up Encourage players to glance forward instead of staring at the ball.
Use Fingertips Control the ball with fingers, not the palm.
Stay Low Bending knees helps keep control of the dribble.
Both Hands Practice right and left equally.
Short Reps 20–30 second reps keep kids focused.
Praise Control Reward good control more than speed.