Types of Dribbling

Crossover Dribble

A Crossover Dribble changes hands with the ball. Let’s say a player is dribbling with his right hand. The player changes direction by planting his right foot pushing off in the opposite direction, at the same time, the player changes hands with the ball by making a quick dribble in front of him, moving the ball from his right hand to his left hand. The closer the defender is to the dribbler, the lower the dribble needs to be and the lower and quicker the change of hands need to be.

Spin Dribble

The Spin Dribble is also used to change direction. Again, visualize the player dribbling to the right with their right hand. The dribbler suddenly plants their left foot, pivots on their left foot so that their back is to the defender, keeping their body between the ball and the defender. About half way through the pivot, the dribbler changes hands with the ball, thereby keeping their outside hand dribbling the ball. This maneuver is slower than the crossover, but safer, for the ball is protected at all times. An important point is when the dribbler is pivoting, they need to plant their foot with authority and stay low during the pivot. When pivoting, the dribbler can be somewhat vulnerable to being bumped off balance, staying low will help keep balance.

Behind the Back Dribble

The Behind the Back Dribble is difficult to do, but when mastered it can be a fine weapon. It is quicker than the Spin Dribble, and less dangerous than the crossover, since the dribbler’s body actually protects the ball. It is executed when the dribbler suddenly dribbles the ball with a quick flip action behind their back, reaching the dribbling hand as far as possible so they can clear their feet. The dribble is then continued with the opposite hand. Again, this is a clever maneuver and can be a powerful weapon, but should be used wisely and only after mastering it.

Between the Legs Dribble

Very similar to the Behind the Back Dribble, the Between the Legs Dribble is when the dribbler changes hands with the ball between the legs. Here, the dribbler dribbles the ball and with a quick flip of the ball between the leg to their opposite hand. The dribble is then continued with the opposite hand.