The Paak knowledge base for basketball coaches — from mini-basket to senior level. Pick your age group: priorities, drills and formats adapt.
Federation sources only: FIBA / WABC Official Rules and Coaches Manual, FFBB regulations and MiniBasket, J+S / OFSPO (Switzerland) material and, for the German-speaking market, the DBB. No video, blog or commercial drill book is ever used as a drill source. Verified · July 2026
Côté Coach
Basketball coaching
Four categories, a half court, and the only sources this guide accepts.
Source: the categories and declared sources of the Côté Coach basketball guide.
Your age group
Train as a priority
Everyone plays — playing time shared evenly
Man-to-man defence: each child guards one opponent
Small-sided (4v4, 3v3) and played forms, not isolated technique
Size 4/5 ball, 2.60 m basket
Avoid at this age
Zone defence — forbidden by rule
Screens — “any form of screen” is banned at U11
Size-7 ball or 3.05 m basket before age 8
Train as a priority
First 3.05 m basket and first size-6 ball
Keep man-to-man as the base
Give-and-go, spacing, transition
Avoid at this age
Installing zone as the default answer
Fixing positions too early
Train as a priority
Structure by game phase: build then finish the attack, duels, defend collectively, transition
Reading the game and decision-making
Size 7 (M) / 6 (F) ball
Avoid at this age
Reducing training to memorised systems without reading the game
Train as a priority
Team defence — help, rotations, shell — and transition defence
Two-player game: on-ball screen
Advantage fast break
Shooting under pressure, match-realistic
Avoid at this age
Neglecting transition defence after a turnover
Today's session
"What do we run tonight?" — pick a duration and a focus, Paak assembles an age-appropriate session outline.
The drills
All 48 drills from the Paak library — the same ones as in the app. Every card carries coaching points, a harder version and an easier version.
Hello
A dribbling warm-up: children move freely while dribbling and greet each team-mate they meet, without stopping the dribble.
Drill detail
How it runs
A dribbling warm-up: children move freely while dribbling and greet each team-mate they meet, without stopping the dribble. Whole/half/quarter gym by numbers. One ball per player (size 5, or 6 for girls). Players dribble around the hall; on meeting another they introduce themselves by first name and shake hands while continuing to dribble.
Coaching points
Ball pushed, not slapped; heads up to find team-mates. J+S/OFSPO: use a size-5 (or 6) ball at this age, not a size 7.
Harder
Add a change of direction or hand switch on each greeting; vary the greeting by hair/eye colour.
Easier
Walk instead of run; allow catching the ball during the handshake.
Little bundles
A listening-and-dribbling warm-up: children dribble freely and, on a signal, gather into small groups of a called size.
Drill detail
How it runs
A listening-and-dribbling warm-up: children dribble freely and, on a signal, gather into small groups of a called size. Open floor, one ball per player. On the leader's call (two, three, four...), players form groups of that size, join hands and trap the ball under one foot.
Coaching points
Reward control on the sudden stop, not speed to the group; eyes up to hear and see the call.
Harder
Call odd/changing sizes faster; require the weak hand while regrouping.
Easier
Use only large group sizes and slow, clear calls.
The locomotive
A stop-start coordination warm-up: 'locomotives' dribble and 'wagons' follow; on a signal everyone performs a two-foot jump-stop, then restarts.
Drill detail
How it runs
A stop-start coordination warm-up: 'locomotives' dribble and 'wagons' follow; on a signal everyone performs a two-foot jump-stop, then restarts. Whole/half gym, one ball per player. Odd players (locomotives) free-dribble; even players (wagons) follow. On the signal all make a simultaneous two-foot stop; on the next signal they restart the dribble without travelling. Swap roles.
Coaching points
A legal two-foot stop lands both feet together; on the restart the ball must leave the hand before the pivot foot lifts (J+S/OFSPO travelling rule).
Harder
Tighter following distance; sudden stops; weak hand only.
Easier
Allow a one-count stop; slower tempo.
Dribble and shoot
A dribble-to-finish drill: slalom-dribble through posts and shoot, then repeat on the way back; run as a two-team relay to finish.
Drill detail
How it runs
A dribble-to-finish drill: slalom-dribble through posts and shoot, then repeat on the way back; run as a two-team relay to finish. A column per basket, marker posts for the slalom, balls, bibs. The first player of each column dribbles the slalom, shoots, rebounds, then does the same coming back and hands to the next. Switch sides.
Coaching points
Ball on the outside hand through the slalom; gather under control before the shot. J+S/OFSPO: 2.60 m basket suits this age.
Harder
Add a trailing defender; finish with a lay-up.
Easier
Remove the slalom; shorten the distance.
player in possessiondribbleshotrun without the ballcone
Dribble king
A ball-protection game in circles: players dribble and try to knock others' balls out; whoever loses control leaves the circle.
Drill detail
How it runs
A ball-protection game in circles: players dribble and try to knock others' balls out; whoever loses control leaves the circle. Two or three marked circles, one ball per player. Inside a circle, players dribble and try to bat other balls out while protecting their own. A player who loses their ball moves to another circle; the last one dribbling in a circle wins a point.
Coaching points
Protect the ball with the body between ball and opponent; keep the dribble low and use the free arm as a shield; heads up to see threats.
Harder
Fewer/smaller circles; weak hand only.
Easier
Larger circles; fewer players per circle.
Cops and robbers
A transition/defence tag game: robbers dribble, cops (no ball) try to tag them; a tagged robber freezes until freed by a team-mate.
Drill detail
How it runs
A transition/defence tag game: robbers dribble, cops (no ball) try to tag them; a tagged robber freezes until freed by a team-mate. Defined area, bibs for the cops, one ball per robber. Cops tag robbers for a point; a tagged robber stands arms-out until a team-mate slaps their hand to free them (also a point). Swap roles.
Coaching points
Robbers keep the dribble alive under pressure and protect the ball with the body; find heads-up escape paths.
Harder
Add more cops; weak hand only.
Easier
More robbers than cops; larger space.
The customs officer
A 1v1 drill: a ball-carrier must cross a guarded zone; if the guard steals it, they return it and the attacker still attacks the basket.
Drill detail
How it runs
A 1v1 drill: a ball-carrier must cross a guarded zone; if the guard steals it, they return it and the attacker still attacks the basket. A marked crossing zone with one defender (the customs officer); balls, bibs, cones. The carrier dribbles through the guarded zone; if through, they attack the basket; if stripped, the officer hands the ball back and they still finish.
Coaching points
Attack the defender's front foot; change speed at the zone edge. A decision drill: the read matters more than the move.
Harder
Narrow the zone; let the officer actively steal.
Easier
Widen the zone; make the officer passive.
player in possessionplayer winning it backdribblerun without the ballshotthe other choice
The duel
A 1v1 competition: two players sit either side of the centre line and, on a signal, fight for the ball and attack a basket.
Drill detail
How it runs
A 1v1 competition: two players sit either side of the centre line and, on a signal, fight for the ball and attack a basket. Pairs at the centre line, one ball per pair, a target basket. Both players sit either side of the centre line. On the signal they fight for the ball; whoever wins it tries to score at the chosen basket. Most points over the rounds wins the duel.
Coaching points
React first to the ball, then get the body between ball and opponent; attack the basket decisively once you win possession.
Harder
Start standing back-to-back; add a second defender recovering.
Easier
Give the attacker a head start; shorten the distance to the basket.
player in possessionplayer winning it backrun without the balldribbleshot
Pair shooting
A standstill-shooting warm-up in pairs: one shoots, rebounds and hands to the partner, racing to a target of made baskets.
Drill detail
How it runs
A standstill-shooting warm-up in pairs: one shoots, rebounds and hands to the partner, racing to a target of made baskets. Pairs at mid-court, one ball per pair, two baskets available. A player shoots one attempt at a chosen basket, rebounds, dribbles back to centre and hands to the partner, who shoots the other basket. One point per make, first pair to ten.
Coaching points
One-hand release, wrist snapping down ('five fingers to the floor'); balanced feet before the shot. J+S/OFSPO stresses shooting volume for success and enjoyment.
Harder
Step back the distance; add a light time cap.
Easier
Shoot closer; remove the race.
Shooting kings
A team shooting drill from marked spots: shoot in turn, count made baskets aloud, and move to the next spot on the coach's call.
Drill detail
How it runs
A team shooting drill from marked spots: shoot in turn, count made baskets aloud, and move to the next spot on the coach's call. Teams with two balls at marked shooting spots; posts to mark spots. On the signal, players shoot in turn, count makes aloud and feed the ball-less team-mate; at the target the coach calls 'change' and the team moves on. Most series wins.
Coaching points
Consistent shooting routine at speed; feed a catchable pass. Reward form over rushing.
Harder
Spots farther out; one ball to raise the tempo.
Easier
Spots closer; higher target so all succeed.
Around the world
A shooting ladder: a column shoots from marked spots; a make advances a position, a miss sends the shooter back; first to finish the last spot wins.
Drill detail
How it runs
A shooting ladder: a column shoots from marked spots; a make advances a position, a miss sends the shooter back; first to finish the last spot wins. One column, one ball per player, marked shooting spots. Each player shoots after a one-count stop; a make advances to the next position, a miss returns to the back of the same column. First to score at the last position wins.
Coaching points
Set the feet with a one-count stop before shooting; same routine at every distance. Reward balance over speed.
Harder
Add more positions farther from the basket; add a light time pressure.
Easier
Fewer, closer positions.
Ball to the hunters
A passing tag game: hunters tag others with the ball in hand via passes; a tagged player becomes a hunter.
Drill detail
How it runs
A passing tag game: hunters tag others with the ball in hand via passes; a tagged player becomes a hunter. Defined area, one ball to start. Two hunters tag the hunted by touching them with the held ball; they may not run with it, so they pass to move it. A tagged player joins the hunters.
Coaching points
Move to get open before asking for the ball; short accurate passes beat long ones. Passing is faster than running.
Harder
Bounce-pass only; add a third hunter.
Easier
More hunted than hunters; larger space.
Passes vs dribble
A race showing passing beats dribbling: one team makes as many passes as possible while the other runs the same course dribbling.
Drill detail
How it runs
A race showing passing beats dribbling: one team makes as many passes as possible while the other runs the same course dribbling. A set course, two balls, bibs to separate teams. Team A passes among itself as many times as possible; Team B runs the same course dribbling. Stop when B finishes; count A's passes; swap. Most passes wins.
Coaching points
Spread out to open passing lanes; catch ready to pass again. The lesson is spacing.
Harder
Add a defender; lengthen the course.
Easier
Shorten the course; no defender.
The stolen ball
A keep-away drill under pressure: stationary attackers make as many passes as possible while a defender tries to steal for a set time.
Drill detail
How it runs
A keep-away drill under pressure: stationary attackers make as many passes as possible while a defender tries to steal for a set time. Small groups in a defined space, one ball per group. Attackers make as many passes as possible for 30 seconds; one defender tries to steal, then rotates. Most steals wins. Variant: two defenders; no return pass.
Coaching points
Pass away from the defender; receivers show a target hand and move to an open lane; protect the ball on the catch.
Harder
Two defenders; forbid the return pass; shrink the space.
Easier
One passive defender; larger space; no time limit.
2 vs 1
A small-sided advantage drill: a pair advances by passing against one defender and tries to finish at the basket.
Drill detail
How it runs
A small-sided advantage drill: a pair advances by passing against one defender and tries to finish at the basket. Ball cart at the baseline, one defender (coach or player), balls. Each pair takes a ball in turn and, passing, tries to score against one defender who tries to intercept.
Coaching points
Attack the defender to commit them, then pass to the free player; keep width so the lane stays open. Decision over speed.
Harder
Add a recovering second defender (2v2); cap the dribbles.
Easier
Passive defender; shorter distance.
player in possessionplayer winning it backdribblerun without the ballpassshot
The numbers game
A small-sided game on call: the coach calls player numbers, those players enter and play (e.
Drill detail
How it runs
A small-sided game on call: the coach calls player numbers, those players enter and play (e.g. 2v2); first basket scores for the team. Two numbered teams on the sideline, one ball, a single basket or short court, bibs. The coach calls one or more numbers; those players run on and play to the first basket. A basket scores a point for their team; first team to five (or the time limit) wins.
Coaching points
On entering, read the numbers up quickly (are we even, up or down?) and choose to attack the basket or the passing lane accordingly. Sprint back on defence.
Harder
Call uneven numbers to force advantage/disadvantage reads; cap dribbles.
Easier
Always call even numbers (1v1, 2v2); enlarge the goal (any basket counts double).
Score and defend
A transition game: both teams start with a ball under their own basket; on the signal both attack the other basket by passing, then the first to score must defend.
Drill detail
How it runs
A transition game: both teams start with a ball under their own basket; on the signal both attack the other basket by passing, then the first to score must defend. Full or half court, two balls, bibs. Both teams start with a ball at their baseline. On the signal both attack the far basket using passes only. The first team to score retrieves and returns its ball, then defends while the other team attacks. A basket scores 2; a steal scores 3.
Coaching points
Win the race with spacing, not speed alone; the instant you score, sprint to convert to defence — the rules reward the steal more than the basket.
Harder
Switch to man-to-man defence; shorten the shot clock feel with a loud count.
Easier
Attack only (no defensive phase); allow dribbling.
Contest forms
A closing competition: two teams face off across six already-known games and exercises, scoring points per event.
Drill detail
How it runs
A closing competition: two teams face off across six already-known games and exercises, scoring points per event. Stations for six familiar games/drills, bibs, balls per station. Two teams compete in a tournament of six known forms (e.g. dribble relay, shooting kings, ball to the hunters). Each form scores points; the team with the most across all six wins.
Coaching points
Because the forms are familiar, the coaching moves to application under competition pressure — keep technique honest when it counts. Rotate roles so everyone contributes.
Harder
Add a time or scoreline pressure to each form; make later forms game-like (2v2/3v3).
Easier
Use fewer, simpler forms; score only participation.
5v5 game (or 3v3 across the width)
The lesson's closing game: full-court 5v5, or 3v3 across the width with lateral baskets, under the J+S simplified rules.
Drill detail
How it runs
The lesson's closing game: full-court 5v5, or 3v3 across the width with lateral baskets, under the J+S simplified rules. Full court, or the width with lateral baskets; bibs; one ball. Play applying the simplified rules learned: dribble, one- and two-count stops with pivot, five seconds, contact fouls, out-of-bounds and throw-in.
Coaching points
Let the game teach; intervene briefly to reward spacing and passing over over-dribbling. J+S/OFSPO: keep everyone playing; size-5/6 ball, adapted basket.
Harder
Move toward full 5v5 rules; add a shot-clock count aloud.
Easier
Play 3v3 across the width; reduce rules to dribble, pass, shoot.
Dribble relay
A relay in two facing columns: slalom-dribble with hand changes around each post, then hand to the next runner who goes back the other way.
Drill detail
How it runs
A relay in two facing columns: slalom-dribble with hand changes around each post, then hand to the next runner who goes back the other way. Teams of four to six, two columns facing near the baskets; four posts, a bench, a mat. Slalom-dribble around the posts (change hand before each), pass over a bench, round a mat, shoot, and pass to the next runner. Three runs each.
Coaching points
Low dribble with a hand change in front of the legs before each post; accelerate out of the change; eyes forward, not on the ball.
Harder
Add a between-the-legs change; require the weak hand around posts.
Easier
Fewer obstacles; slower, no shot.
Half-court obstacle course
A ball-familiarisation course on half-court: dribble through varied obstacles with prescribed handling tasks.
Drill detail
How it runs
A ball-familiarisation course on half-court: dribble through varied obstacles with prescribed handling tasks. Half-court with cones/posts on the floor; one ball per player. Run the course twice: slalom with a hand change at each post; dribble to the middle, a one-count stop and four between-the-legs dribbles at the stop; then dribble between floor posts.
Coaching points
Low hand-change dribble in front of the legs; accelerate forward after the change; head up.
Harder
Add a time target; both hands only (ambidextrous).
Easier
Fewer obstacles; walking pace.
Catch the other team's ball
A circle passing race: teams alternate around a circle and pass fast to catch up with the other team's ball.
Drill detail
How it runs
A circle passing race: teams alternate around a circle and pass fast to catch up with the other team's ball. A circle of 8-12, alternating team A and B; one ball per team. On the signal each team passes its ball rapidly around the circle (skipping the other team's players) to catch up with and overtake the other ball.
Coaching points
Present the hands at chest height, palms forward, to receive; the catch and the pass are one continuous move.
Harder
Bounce-pass only; change direction on a signal.
Easier
Larger circle; slower start.
Pass and switch places
A square passing drill: pass straight, then move diagonally to the vacated corner.
Drill detail
How it runs
A square passing drill: pass straight, then move diagonally to the vacated corner. Eight players form a square (two per corner); two balls start on a diagonal. A passes straight to C, D passes straight to B, simultaneously; after passing, A and D switch places diagonally. Then B and C do the same. And so on: pass straight, move diagonally.
Coaching points
Pass in one direction, move in another; catch ready and keep the pass crisp. Trains playing away from the ball.
Harder
Use four players only to sharpen the stops; add a third ball.
Easier
Walk it through; one ball only.
Give and go
The give-and-go: pass, cut, receive at hip height and pass on to the next player.
Drill detail
How it runs
The give-and-go: pass, cut, receive at hip height and pass on to the next player. Groups of three, one ball; a lane to the basket. A passes and immediately cuts to the basket; the receiver returns the ball at hip height for a finish, or A passes on to the next player. Keep the sequence flowing.
Coaching points
Cut hard immediately after passing (don't watch the ball); receive at hip height ready to finish. This is the game's most basic two-player action.
Harder
Add a defender on the passer; finish with a lay-up.
Easier
No finish, just the pass-cut-receive pattern at walking pace.
player in possessionpassrun without the ballshot
1v1 duel with a read
A 1v1 with a change of pace and direction: the attacker beats a live defender to the basket.
Drill detail
How it runs
A 1v1 with a change of pace and direction: the attacker beats a live defender to the basket. One attacker, one defender, one ball, a half-court to the basket. The attacker uses a change of pace and direction to beat the defender and finish; then roles swap.
Coaching points
Attack the front foot and change speed to beat the defender; protect the ball with the body through the change. Read the defender rather than pre-deciding.
Harder
Start from a live pass; add a help defender.
Easier
Passive defender; shorten the distance.
Duel under the basket
A reaction 1v1: two players sprint for a rolled ball; the winner attacks, the loser defends.
Drill detail
How it runs
A reaction 1v1: two players sprint for a rolled ball; the winner attacks, the loser defends. A basket, a coach/player to roll the ball, two players on the baseline with a cone each. The coach rolls the ball toward mid-court; both players start, round their cone, and race back for it. The faster becomes attacker, the other defends. Repeat at the other half.
Coaching points
React to the roll first; the defender must get between the ball and the basket, balanced and low. When the attacker stops the dribble, close the distance.
Harder
Number the players and call who competes; start facing the wall and turn on the sound of the ball.
Easier
Give the attacker a head start; passive defender.
Power lay-in under the basket
A moving power finish: cut off a pass and finish strong under the basket, both sides.
Drill detail
How it runs
A moving power finish: cut off a pass and finish strong under the basket, both sides. Two columns on the baseline; the first player without a ball, the others with (four is enough); cones. A starts, rounds the cones, receives B's pass and finishes with a power lay-in under the basket. As soon as B has passed, B starts and does the same on the other side. Each takes their rebound and swaps columns.
Coaching points
Finish strong off two feet, ball protected high; time the cut so the catch is on the move. Improves power finishing and timing.
Harder
Add other finishes (lay-up, mid-range); run it as a race to 20 baskets.
Easier
Start closer with no cones; catch stationary.
Distance shooting contest
A team shooting ladder from near to far: score three per cone before moving out.
Drill detail
How it runs
A team shooting ladder from near to far: score three per cone before moving out. Three cone-marked lanes per basket; three to four players per lane. Score three baskets per cone, starting nearest, before moving to the next; the shooter rebounds and passes to the next. Which team reaches the top first?
Coaching points
Keep one repeatable shooting routine at every distance; balance before the release. Builds concentration under a moving target.
Harder
Add farther cones; a time cap per station.
Easier
Two makes per cone; nearer distances only.
Defensive sliding & stance
Defensive footwork: hold a low balanced stance and slide to mirror an attacker without crossing the feet.
Drill detail
How it runs
Defensive footwork: hold a low balanced stance and slide to mirror an attacker without crossing the feet. Pairs or a shadowing line; a defined area; no ball needed to start. The defender mirrors the attacker's moves with quick sliding steps, staying between opponent and basket; progress to defending a live dribbler for a set time.
Coaching points
Balanced, low, weight on the balls of the feet; quick sliding steps, never tapping or crossing the feet; stay between your opponent and the basket, an arm's length off a player who hasn't dribbled. Only good position lets you react. [OFSPO/ASEP cues]
Harder
Defend a live 1v1; add a second cutter to read.
Easier
Shadow at walking pace, no ball.
2v2 on a half-court
A transition 2v2: four players pass around a square, then the two passers convert to defence and play live 2v2.
Drill detail
How it runs
A transition 2v2: four players pass around a square, then the two passers convert to defence and play live 2v2. A, B, C, D in a square; the next four ready on the side. A (baseline) passes to B, B laterally to C, C to D (baseline). As soon as A passes, A moves diagonally to defend B; B does the same on D. Now play 2v2 with A and B defending. The next four go as soon as the ball is dead (basket or steal).
Coaching points
Move fast to get into a defensive position before the ball arrives; then apply the stance cues — low, between opponent and basket.
Harder
Add a screen for the attackers; play to a target score.
Easier
Start 2v1; give attackers a head start.
3v3 full court
Full-court 3v3: small-sided game that keeps every player involved in attack and defence.
Drill detail
How it runs
Full-court 3v3: small-sided game that keeps every player involved in attack and defence. Full court, two baskets, bibs, one ball; teams of three with waiting teams. Play 3v3 full-court with normal simplified rules; rotate teams on a basket or a stop. Encourage spacing and the give-and-go over one-on-one dribbling.
Coaching points
Keep three players spaced across the width; move after every pass; transition instantly from attack to defence. The read, not the athlete, wins 3v3.
Harder
Cap dribbles to force passing; require a pass before a shot.
Easier
Play 3v3 on a half-court; relax the transition rule.
Game under one basket (normal rules)
A half-court game under one basket with normal rules — the closest form to a real match at this age.
Drill detail
How it runs
A half-court game under one basket with normal rules — the closest form to a real match at this age. Half-court, one basket, bibs, one ball; 3v3 or as numbers allow. Play to one basket applying the normal rules learned (dribble, travelling, contact fouls, out-of-bounds). On a change of possession, the ball must be taken back behind a marked line before attacking.
Coaching points
Apply everything from the session in a game: space the floor, pass to move the ball, transition on every turnover. Let the game be the teacher.
Harder
Add a shot-clock count; require a set number of passes before a shot.
Easier
Fewer players; remove the take-back rule.
Cross without being tagged
A read-and-dribble game: pairs cross a hall using passes and dribbles while two 'ghosts' try to tag the ball-carrier.
Drill detail
How it runs
A read-and-dribble game: pairs cross a hall using passes and dribbles while two 'ghosts' try to tag the ball-carrier. A defined hall as the 'castle', one ball per pair, two taggers. Guests advance in pairs by passing and dribbling to reach the far side. The ghosts may only tag the ball-carrier. If a guest is tagged, that pair joins the ghosts.
Coaching points
Keep the head up to read the ghosts; pass out of pressure rather than forcing the dribble. Trains peripheral vision, dribbling and passing together.
Harder
Bounce-pass only; add a third ghost; narrow the hall.
Easier
More space; only one ghost; allow catching the ball to run.
Controlled risk
A low-stance dribbling game: while dribbling, try to touch the nearest player's knee with the free hand.
Drill detail
How it runs
A low-stance dribbling game: while dribbling, try to touch the nearest player's knee with the free hand. Open area, one ball per player. Players dribble freely. On the signal, each tries to touch the nearest player's knee with the free hand while keeping the dribble alive. On the next signal all reset and wait for the next challenge. Use the weak hand too.
Coaching points
Lower the centre of gravity and stay balanced — but keep the upper body upright to avoid clashing heads. Builds footwork and reaction while protecting the ball. [OFSPO/ASEP safety note]
Harder
'Leagues' variant: three courts; win the ball to move up a league, lose it to move down.
Easier
Larger spacing; no knee-touch, just protect the ball in a low stance.
Attack and defend on every basket
A live scoring-vs-stealing game across several baskets: attackers try to score a full ball store, defenders try to steal it.
Drill detail
How it runs
A live scoring-vs-stealing game across several baskets: attackers try to score a full ball store, defenders try to steal it. Two teams; three ball stores (attackers: one full of 20-25 balls + one empty; defenders: one empty); two to four baskets. On the signal each attacker takes a ball and drives to a basket to score; a made basket goes into their second store. Defenders try to win balls and put them in their own store. Count when no balls remain in play.
Coaching points
Defenders read the whole floor (peripheral vision) and fight for the rebound; attackers protect the ball to the rim. Fair play under a crowded, competitive rebound battle.
Harder
Fewer baskets to raise contact; require a lay-up finish only.
Easier
More baskets and fewer defenders; no stealing, just score the store.
The spider's web
An agility dribbling game: spiders herd dribbling players toward mats; step on a mat and you're trapped until a team-mate frees you.
Drill detail
How it runs
An agility dribbling game: spiders herd dribbling players toward mats; step on a mat and you're trapped until a team-mate frees you. Several mats spread out as 'webs', bibs for the spiders, one ball per player. Players dribble around the hall; the spiders (no ball) manoeuvre them so they put at least one foot on a mat. A trapped player stands on the mat, ball tucked under one arm. FR version: a team-mate frees them by crossing the mat without stepping on it; DE version: a team-mate frees them by touching their hand without standing on the mat.
Coaching points
Control the dribble while the eyes read the spiders and the mats — this is agility and spatial awareness under a live dribble, not speed. Keep the ball protected when changing direction.
Harder
Add more spiders or more mats; weak hand only.
Easier
Fewer mats and spiders; more space to move.
4v4 shell drill
The canonical team-defence drill: four defenders hold a shape around four passing attackers, sliding and jumping to the ball to practise help and rotation.
Drill detail
How it runs
The canonical team-defence drill: four defenders hold a shape around four passing attackers, sliding and jumping to the ball to practise help and rotation. Half-court, four attackers around the perimeter, four defenders, one ball. Attackers pass the ball around the perimeter (no dribble at first). On each pass, the on-ball defender pressures and the off-ball defenders adjust to help positions and 'jump to the ball'. Progress from pass-only to live 4v4.
Coaching points
From easy to hard, simple to complex (DBB). Talk on defence; help early from the weak side or the nearest man; the helper must not leave a gap to the ball-defender, and the others must rotate on time. [DBB — Fehlerquellen]
Harder
Allow dribble penetration; add close-outs on skip passes; go 5v5.
Easier
Pass-only, no dribble; slow the passing tempo.
player in possessionplayer winning it backpassrun without the ballthe other choice
Off-rebound to transition defence
A transition-defence drill: on a defensive rebound the other team attacks at once; the rebounding team must sprint back, protect the basket first, then match up.
Drill detail
How it runs
A transition-defence drill: on a defensive rebound the other team attacks at once; the rebounding team must sprint back, protect the basket first, then match up. Full court, two teams, one ball; start from a shot on one basket. A shot goes up; the defence rebounds and immediately outlets to attack the far basket, while the shooting team converts to defence. Play it live to a score or stop, then reset.
Coaching points
Maximum sprint on the way back; everyone sprints behind the ball-line; basket protection is the first priority, taking the ball the second; then match up ball-side and weak-side, and talk. [DBB — SAFETY, MATCH-UP phase, jam the rebounder]
Harder
Start the attack in advantage (4v3, 5v4) to stress the retreat; add a designated first-stopper.
Easier
Even numbers with a head start for the defence; half-court only.
Pass and screen away
A screening drill: a player passes, then screens away for a team-mate, who reads the defender and cuts off the screen.
Drill detail
How it runs
A screening drill: a player passes, then screens away for a team-mate, who reads the defender and cuts off the screen. Start 2v0+1 (two attackers, one defender), progressing to 2v1+1, 2v2+1, 3v3 and 4v4; one ball, a basket. The passer screens away for a team-mate; the screen-user prepares the cut, brushes shoulder-to-shoulder off the screen and reads whether to curl, flare or back-cut based on the defender.
Coaching points
Read the defence; the screener must actually hit the defender (make contact within the rules); the user must prepare the screen and go shoulder-to-shoulder so no gap opens. [DBB — Grundsätze/Fehlerquellen]
Harder
Add live defence on the screener; chain into a second screen; go 4v4.
Easier
Screen against no defender first to groove the angle and the cut.
Advantage fast break (3v2 / 4v3)
An advantage fast break: attack the far basket as fast as possible before the defence sets, converting a numerical edge into a good shot.
Drill detail
How it runs
An advantage fast break: attack the far basket as fast as possible before the defence sets, converting a numerical edge into a good shot. Full or half court, more attackers than defenders (3v2, 4v3); one ball. On gaining possession the attackers push the ball up the floor at once and attack the outnumbered defence, looking to score before it can recover. Rotate roles each rep.
Coaching points
Push the ball ahead early; run wide lanes; make the defenders commit before passing. A waiting-dribble at a defender forces them to choose whom to guard.
Harder
Reduce the advantage (4v3 to 3v3 with a trailer); add a defender arriving late.
Easier
Bigger advantage (3v1); no defence at first to groove spacing and timing.
player in possessionplayer winning it backdribblerun without the ballpassshot
Close-out (long and short)
A close-out drill: the defender sprints to a receiver and breaks down under control, closing 'long' on a shooter or 'short' on a driver.
Drill detail
How it runs
A close-out drill: the defender sprints to a receiver and breaks down under control, closing 'long' on a shooter or 'short' on a driver. An attacker on the perimeter, a defender starting from help position (near the paint), a ball, a basket. As the pass is thrown, the defender sprints out, then takes small quick steps to arrive balanced at arm's length. If the receiver is a shooter, close 'long' to contest the shot; if a driver, close 'short' (stopping two or three metres out) to stop the drive. Then play 1v1.
Coaching points
Sprint, then chop the feet into small steps near the attacker; keep the head centred (not tipped forward or back) for balance; finish with two hands up to rebalance and be ready to move laterally. [WABC]
Harder
Add a live 1v1 finish; close out to a shooter you must run off the line.
Easier
Slower closeout, attacker passive; walk through the footwork.
player in possessionplayer winning it backpassrun without the ballthe other choice
Shooting competition vs an opponent
A match-realistic shooting drill: a player shoots from set distances and the opponent scores points on every miss, so each shot carries a consequence.
Drill detail
How it runs
A match-realistic shooting drill: a player shoots from set distances and the opponent scores points on every miss, so each shot carries a consequence. A basket, a ball, two players (shooter and opponent). Optionally a defender who closes out on the shooter. The shooter takes a series and the opponent banks points for misses by shot value: free throw = opponent +4 on a miss; lay-up = +3; two-point shot outside the paint = +2; three-point shot = +1. Lowest total wins. Add a live close-out for realism.
Coaching points
Make training as match-realistic as possible so skills transfer to game day; put a defender in front of the shooter; keep the shooting routine identical under the added pressure of a score. [WABC L2]
Harder
Full live close-out and contest; shoot off the dribble or off a pass.
Easier
Remove the defender; shoot only from close range first.
Pass, cut and fill
The core motion-offence action: a player passes, cuts hard to the basket, and a team-mate fills the vacated spot to keep the floor spaced.
Drill detail
How it runs
The core motion-offence action: a player passes, cuts hard to the basket, and a team-mate fills the vacated spot to keep the floor spaced. Half-court, three to five players spaced around the perimeter, one ball, a basket; add defenders to progress. A passes to a team-mate and immediately makes a basket cut, looking for a return pass; if it doesn't come, A clears through and an adjacent player fills A's spot. Repeat continuously, keeping even spacing. Finish on a lay-up when the cut is open.
Coaching points
Cut hard and read the defender (basket cut, or back-cut if overplayed); refill immediately so spacing never collapses; correct cutting movements by the cutter make the action work. [DBB — Schneidebewegungen]
Harder
Add live defence (3v3, 4v4); require a made basket cut before any shot.
Easier
No defence; walk the pass-cut-fill pattern to groove the timing.
Dynamic warm-up
The general-to-specific warm-up that opens a senior session: raise the body temperature, then move through dynamic mobility before any ball work.
Drill detail
How it runs
The general-to-specific warm-up that opens a senior session: raise the body temperature, then move through dynamic mobility before any ball work. Full court, no ball to start; space to jog end to end. General phase (light intensity to raise heart rate and muscle temperature): jog the length of the court x2. Dynamic phase: walking lunges across a half-court; single-leg hamstring bridges 2x8 per leg; lateral lunges back to the baseline; knee-to-wall calf mobility 10 per leg; squats x10. Then move to sport-specific work.
Coaching points
Move from general mobilisation to dynamic stretches to sport-specific movement, in that order; on lunges keep toes and knees forward, hips level, chest open; on squats keep heels down and knees tracking over the toes. [WABC L2 / DBB Funktionelles Aufwärmen]
Harder
Add sport-specific ball movement to finish; lengthen the dynamic set.
Easier
Shorten to jog plus lunges and squats only.
Ball-handling activation
The specific phase of the warm-up: wake up the hands and eyes with continuous two-ball and change-of-direction dribbling before the main work.
Drill detail
How it runs
The specific phase of the warm-up: wake up the hands and eyes with continuous two-ball and change-of-direction dribbling before the main work. Each player one or two balls, space to move; part of the specific warm-up phase. Move up and back doing continuous ball-handling: low pound dribble, crossover, between-the-legs, then two-ball simultaneous and alternating dribble. Keep it light and continuous as sport-specific activation, not a workout.
Coaching points
Sport-specific movements come after the general and dynamic phases; keep the eyes up, not on the ball; both hands equally. [WABC L2 / DBB spezielles Aufwärmen]
Harder
Add a partner mirror or a reaction cue; two balls at different rhythms.
Easier
One ball, walking pace.
Shooting activation
The last step of the warm-up before live play: build from stationary shots close in, out to jump shots, then game-speed catches.
Drill detail
How it runs
The last step of the warm-up before live play: build from stationary shots close in, out to jump shots, then game-speed catches. Baskets shared in pairs, one or two balls per pair. Begin with stationary shots close to the basket; step back progressively to jump shots; finish with catch-and-shoot at game speed from a partner's pass. The warm-up ends where the session begins.
Coaching points
Athletes begin with stationary shots, then jump shots, then contact — build intensity in that order; keep one repeatable shooting routine throughout. [WABC L2]
Harder
Add a close-out defender on the final catches.
Easier
Stationary shots close to the basket only.
Movement-prep strength circuit
A bodyweight movement-prep circuit that doubles as a screening battery: core, push and single-leg strength a senior player should own.
Drill detail
How it runs
A bodyweight movement-prep circuit that doubles as a screening battery: core, push and single-leg strength a senior player should own. Open floor; mats optional; no equipment needed. Circuit, controlled tempo: single-leg hamstring bridge 12 per leg; push-ups 12; stable front plank 1 minute; single-leg calf raise (on the floor) 20 per leg. Two to three rounds. It can also be scored 1-3 per movement to track quality over time.
Coaching points
Quality over quantity: complete each movement with correct technique and the required repetitions; hips level on the bridge, a straight line on the plank. Core-stabilising and dynamic bodyweight work. [WABC L2 movement screen / DBB Körperstabilisierende Übungen]
Harder
Add load or tempo; reduce rest between stations.
Easier
Halve the reps; do one round; regress single-leg to two-leg.
Landing and jump mechanics
A jump-and-land drill that trains soft, safe landings — the mechanics behind ankle- and ACL-injury prevention in basketball.
Drill detail
How it runs
A jump-and-land drill that trains soft, safe landings — the mechanics behind ankle- and ACL-injury prevention in basketball. Open floor; a line or low marker to jump over/onto; no equipment required. Step and single-leg vertical jump, 3 per leg, with an emphasis on a soft, controlled landing (shock absorption). Progress from a two-foot take-off and landing to single-leg, and from vertical to a small forward or lateral jump, always landing softly under control.
Coaching points
Land softly and absorb the impact through hips and knees, knees tracking over the toes (never caving in); quiet feet. This soft-landing pattern is the trainable mechanic in basketball injury prevention. [WABC L2 / DBB Sprungkraft & Verletzungsprophylaxe]
Harder
Add a catch or a turn in the air; react to a signal for the landing direction.
Easier
Two-foot take-off and landing only; lower jump height.
No drill matches these filters.
Ball, basket, game length
FFBB grid by category (Annexe 3).
not size 6/7U7 — Babyball Basket ≤ 2.60 m · workshops and 4–6 min games
size 4 or 5U9 · U11 — mini-basket Basket 2.60 m · 4×6 or 6×4
size 6U13 Basket 3.05 m · 4×7 to 4×10, or 2×16
size 7 (M) / 6 (F)U15 Basket 3.05 m · 4×10, 2×16 or 2×20
size 7 (M) / 6 (F)U20 · Seniors Basket 3.05 m · 4×10 or 2×20
The two numbers not to get wrong: the basket goes from 2.60 m to 3.05 m at U13, and the ball from size 5 to size 6. At U11 zone defence is forbidden and full-court man-to-man is mandatory — a club may protest, a technician observes, and the match is declared lost for the offending team (repeat offence: forfeit with a penalty). Any form of screen is banned there too.
Reference guides
The depth behind the tools: seven sourced guides, from age-band development to the rules.
The generator above also lives inside the app, right on your team’s session: age band, duration, theme — and Paak builds a minuted four-block outline from this same library of 48 drills. Edit it, save it — that is free. Printing the session sheet and club-authored drills beyond 5 are available in Paak One.
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