Youth basketball is first and foremost about fun, but skill development is a close second. For those who love the game, constant improvement means more than wins and losses. With only so much practice time available with their team, young athletes will look for ways to improve their game. Sometimes all you need is a driveway and a ball to take your game to the next level. Here are some youth basketball drills that are easy to execute at home. 

Become a Student of the Game

Basketball is a game of will as much as it is of skill. A clutch jump shot might help a player stand out, but tenacious defense and unrelenting effort are a coach’s best friend. Help your young athlete feed theirs by watching as much basketball together as possible. Whether you go to the local high school to watch an older sibling or watch your favorite college and pro teams on TV, players can learn something new every time they watch the game. By growing their depth of knowledge, they decrease their reaction time and are better prepared for a wider array of in-game scenarios.

Dribble Drills

Dribbling and ball-handling skills are crucial to the sport no matter what position your young athlete plays. Beyond the obvious point that players cannot advance the ball themselves without dribbling, it allows players to evade defenders and create scoring opportunities. Young players should practice dribbling with both hands, ensuring they can control the ball without looking down. Key dribbling drills include:

• Figure Eights: Dribble the ball in a figure-eight pattern around your legs to improve hand coordination.

• Cone Drills: Set up cones (or some sort of stationary mark) and practice dribbling around them to enhance agility and control.

• Speed Dribbling: Dribble as fast as you can from one end of the court, or the basement, to the other to build speed and endurance.

Passing is an Art Form

One aspect of your child’s game you can help improve is passing. They will need a partner and this allows you and your child to bond over the sport as they improve their skills. Young players should practice different types of passes, such as chest passes, bounce passes, and overhead passes. Key passing drills include:

• Partner Passing: Pair up with a teammate and practice passing back and forth, focusing on accuracy and speed.

• Circle Passing: Stand in a circle with other players and pass the ball quickly around the circle to improve reaction time and coordination.

• Passing on the Move: Practice passing while running to simulate game situations.

Build Consistency with Their Shot

It can be tempting to only focus on scoring. No one – no matter their age – ever gets tired of the feeling of scoring a basket. Help them grow their range and get comfortable from anywhere on the court. Young players should focus on proper shooting mechanics, including hand placement, balance and follow-through. Effective shooting drills include:

• Form Shooting: Stand close to the basket and focus on perfecting your shooting form.

• Free Throws: Practice shooting free throws to develop consistency and confidence.

• Spot Shooting: Shoot from various spots around the court to improve range and accuracy.

Ready to Get in the Game?

MYAS offers leagues that cater to any skill level for 3rd-12th grade basketball players, from 3v3 rec leagues that focus on fun to more competitive leagues that utilize divisions to keep players on teams with comparable skill levels. 

We have affiliated organizations all across Minnesota, so find one in your area today!