Be a Team Player and Learn How to Pass the Basketball
You may have heard it said, “There is no I in Team”. Basketball is no exception to the old adage. A fundamental skill that every player has to learn is how to pass a basketball. The skill of passing not only involves more players in the game, but it creates a cohesive bond within a team. Basketball players are often glorified in their individuality, showcased through a glitzy slam-dunk or through a seemingly impossible shot made in the final seconds of a close game. Highly skilled teams can easily steal the show by learning to pass the ball fluently between players and raising the probability of a win, while charming the crowd with their skills.
Passing is often an overlooked and under taught skill to emerging basketball players.Coaches and players that work to master the skill have a clear advantage over their opponents. Though passing drills may not be as fun as other aspects of practice, mastery of the drills can offer a stealth offense during the game.
What Is a Pass?
Successful passing involves delivery of the ball from one person to another without interference. The basic passes are chest pass, bounce pass, and overhead pass.All three passes are similar in technique. The passing player initiates towards the receiver with open arms and thumbs facing down to ensure a proper spin, making it easier for the receiver to catch the ball. The dynamics of the spinning ball make it difficult for the defending team to intercept.
3 Ways to Pass a Basketball
Chest Pass – The first passing technique for players to learn is the chest pass. Start by holding the ball at the chest and then pass without bouncing to the receiving teammate.It is a straight-line pass, best used when the passer has little threat of interference.
Bounce Pass – The bounce pass is executed by aiming the ball towards the floor and bouncing it waist highapproximately 3/4 of the way towards the receiver. This pass is a challenge for the defensive team to intercept due to the difficulty of estimating the location of the bounce quickly enough to intercept it. Though effective in warding off the defense, the pass must be practiced in order for the player to gain consistent control of the ball.
Overhead Pass – A player executing the overhead pass would throw the ball over his head to his receiving teammate. It is important that the receiver be cognoscente of the vulnerability for interception of a ball that extends beyond the player’s head. For that reason, many coaches prefer that players do not allow the ball to go behind their heads during this type of pass.
More Advanced Passing Techniques – In addition to the fundamental passes, advance players utilize additional passes such as, wrap-around pass, baseball pass, dribble pass, behind-the-back pass, and pick-and-roll pass. These passes are more technical and require advanced training by knowledgeable coaches.
Secrets to Improve Your Passing Skills
The player must make sure that the pass is catchable. A well-intended pass is futile if there is no one positioned correctly to catch it. A successful pass occurs when players aim accurately for the receiver and the pass is received.It takes a lot of practice for teammates to synchronize themselves and be able to anticipate one another’s moves. The more time spent practicing passing, the more players are able to think as a team and work cohesively on the court.
The passer and receiver should utilize court vision at all times. Court vision is simply being aware of all peripheral views so that the defense is not underestimated. Court vision is a skill that is learned as the player grows in experience.
Finally, the players should focus on determining the best pass for scoring. Some players get caught up in trying to use an unnecessary complicated pass, when a simple one is sufficient for scoring.
Passing is a skill that is tedious to practice and master. Fortunately, working hard to perfect your pass will pay off big time during your next game.