Basketball dribbling - what are the types?

Dribbling is about controlling the ball and hitting it against the ground so that it does not fall into the opponent's hands. Read on and learn more about the importance of the different types of basketball dribbling.

Basketball dribbling - what are its types

Dribbling is the basic move you need to master (next to pass, throw and defense) if you want to become a good basketball player. But do you know the different types of dribbling that are used in basketball?

The main task of the players is to advance on the field and leave the opposing team's defense behind. Of course, the key is to do so without losing the ball. Learn more about some of the fun types of dribbling in basketball below.

When and how to dribble?

Players of any team that wants to seriously compete in basketball must master the art of dribbling. Moreover, they must be able to do it alternately with both hands.

Types of basketball dribbling

Using both hands to dribble is a strategy for getting out of any scenario and allows you to move in the direction you want without losing the ball.

If you want to dribble properly, the hand you use to hit the ball must take the shape of the ball. Thanks to this, you can cope with this task and use the most appropriate movements (your hand should never be excessively stiff and straight).

When dribbling, it is most convenient to use the arm that is farthest from the opposing defenders. This gives the ball better protection, especially when you use your other hand to keep your distance from your opponents.

When dribbling you should move with the ball, slightly moving your forearm and wrist. You should also be extremely careful when contacting your opponent.

Remember that you will need good ball control if you want to control its path. This will make it easier for you to change its direction and bounce rhythm.

Finally, remember that you should also dribble with your head held high to keep an eye on your surroundings and opponents. When handling the ball, in addition to the basic movements, there is the most important rule to consider: know when to dribble.

Regarding the duration of this action, opinions differ. Even so, the general rule is that if you see an opportunity to pass the ball, stop dribbling.

Remember that too frequent and prolonged dribbling has a big impact on the collective play and team concept. Based on this, make sure your players know when to dribble and understand the rules of the game.

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High dribble

• This is the most common type of dribble because it is done continuously while moving around the pitch.
• You need to hit the ball lightly in front of or next to your body.
• The ball should rise - more or less - to the player's waist (or a little higher).
• To make sure the ball is keeping pace with you, dribble it lightly in front of your body. This way the ball will not be left behind when running on the pitch.

Coordination between the footwork and the dribbling hand is crucial. Of course, your feet should follow one another to avoid tipping over.

Fast dribbling

• This type of dribbling is quite similar to the previous one. Despite this, the player has to move much faster, because his goal is to advance on the pitch as quickly as possible and avoid obstacles.
• It is well known that a player will advance faster by running than by dribbling. Consequently, you will have to run a lot and dribble a little while pushing the ball forward. This will ensure that you can walk as many steps as possible between each bounce.
• A useful trick is to switch the hand you dribble while maintaining control of the ball. In other words, the player controls the ball, not the other way around.
• Your body should be tilted slightly forward

Controlled dribbling

• This type of dribble is very useful in protecting the ball from opposing players. It also protects your position against defenders. Their job is to stop you from advancing on the field or from intercepting the ball.
• Your body should be slightly tilted forward to keep the ball in the correct position.
• From this position, move your leg forward a bit, and also use the arm that you don't use for dribbling. The hand furthest from the defender will help you cover the ball.
• Since you will be slightly bent, you will have to dribble lower. You are actually using your whole body to protect the ball. In other words, you place your body as a shield between other players and the ball.
• Finally, the head should be lifted and allow you to observe the other players and the situation under the basket. This will help you avoid surprises from opponents who want to pick up the ball from behind.

Other types of dribbling

Low dribble

This style of dribbling is where the player hits the ball very low and fast. Playmakers often use it to switch hands or quickly escape from a difficult situation.

Two-sided dribbling

To avoid committing a double foul during a dribble, a player may only dribble once. Players often use this feint to quickly get ahead of the opposing team's defense. It is a strong and fast dribble (often between the legs), so it is harder for opponents to catch and hit the ball.

Crossover dribbling

A recent example of different types of basketball dribbling is crossover dribbling. During a dribble next to the body the player will move with decisive steps to the sides to find better opportunities to pass the ball or cross the court.