Between Legs Dribble Dribbling between the Legs Drills and Skills
Learning the between legs dribble is the next step up after learning the basic dribble. This technique is useful when trying to fool an opponent into which way you are going to head. Also it keeps the ball further away from the reach of the defender. To help you master the Between legs dribble, watch the video below and follow the Information below.
Have adequate spacing between your legs- Not enough space could result in the ball not going through your legs smoothly and hitting one of your ankles or shins which could end up with you losing control of the ball and potentially possession.
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Keep your Body low- Having your body low to the ground increases the control you have as the space between your hand and the ground is smaller and the ball is closer to you more often giving you greater handling making it easier to bounce the ball between your legs.
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Keep your head up- At first this will prove difficult, but try to keep your head up and looking at the defender. The combination of crossing the ball between your legs and using your eyes to mislead the defender is one of the most vital tricks in basketball and particularly street basketball.
Drills to use when practising
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Dribbling on the spot- The first way of performing this technique should be on the spot and from the very start (So you don't develop a bad habit), keep your head up and eyes forward and master dribbling between your legs. Back and forward on both sides and a figure of 8 in both directions.
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Dribbling on the move- Moving along using this technique should just be like walking but making enough space for the ball to pass between your legs. Don't be tempted to make over exaggerated steps to get the ball through and the most important thing is to not lose the ball behind you. Keep all your body at the same speed.
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Moving backwards- Exactly the same as on the move but going backwards. In a game of basketball particularly on the edge of the 3 point line it is important to be able to dribble between your legs backwards to get the ball away from a swipe of a defender leaving you open for a clear 3 point jump shot. Line up for a shot and dribble backwards then take it.
Learning the between legs dribble is harder than the ordinary dribble and you should not give up if you find it hard to learn. Keep on trying and trying as practise makes perfect.
