We are back to good fundamentals with the Wall and Ball Two Hand Pass Drill. Playing basketball looks so easy when you’re sitting in the stands. But for players, good players, that easy look is developed through practice and concentration on mastering fundamental skills.

This drill will help you do that. All you need is a basketball and a wall (with no windows!). Combine this drill with a one-minute shooting drill around the court and in square in front of your Goalrilla Goal Basketball Goal and you will have a complete practice in your driveway or on your home court. (If you need help finding the best goal for your home court – visit us at the Basketball Goal Store – we have everything you need!)

The Drill:

• With the basketball in hand, the player should set themselves about 8 to 10 feet away from the wall.
• Stand square to the wall. Place one hand on each side of the basketball, visually pick a spot on the wall and then execute the bounce pass by keeping the pivot foot planted and then stepping out with the other foot toward the wall as the ball is released.
• After release, hands immediately go up and out for the return pass as the ball bounces off the wall.

Catch the ball and repeat the process, executing 10 to 20 reps for 1 set. Complete 2 to 3 sets per practice.

Emphasize these key points:

• Player should focus on stepping into the pass. Match the arm extension with the leg extension in order to generate power behind the pass.
• Hand position: Holding the basketball in both hands, the player extends the arms outward and at a slight angle downward withthe stepping motion. The player will rotate the thumbs of each hand simultaneously down toward the ground and then extend the ball forward off of the index and middle finger of each hand. when properly executed, the back of each hand will be facing each other with the fingers pointing forward and thumbs pointing toward the ground.
• Receiving the ball: The player can focus on automatically getting the hands into the ready position by getting both hands up and out with the palms facing the wall. This permits the player to visually watch the ball as it comes back into their hands as they catch the simulated return pass. It’s a great way to build hand to eye coordination while at the same time building greater hand agility.
• Hand and eye coordination: The player should should select a spot about two-thirds of the distance between himself and the wall to bounce the ball – with force so that there is not a high loop in the return pass. More power at the release in a good angle means the ball will snap back.

Good intense practice makes for good play on the court!

-Pat of the Basketball Goal Store Blog Team