The crossover dribble moves the ball from one side of the body to the other in one bounce. It’s the foundation for dribble moves. Start stationary so the focus is only on the bounce pattern, not movement.
What you need: Basketball. Flat court. Open space.
Setup: Kids spread out 6 feet apart. Stand with feet shoulder-width apart.
How to run it:
- Start with the ball in your right hand. Low stance, low ball.
- Dribble down on the right side of your body. As it bounces up, push it across in front of you toward the left side.
- Catch it at the left side with your left hand as it bounces up. Your hands meet at the top of the bounce.
- Do 10 crossovers: right to left, left to right, right to left, and so on.
- Do 3 rounds. Rest 30 seconds between.
What to watch: Does the ball bounce in the middle of the crossover or does it pass too far to one side? The crossover bounce should land in the middle. If it drifts, their hand angle is off.
If they’re struggling: Slow it down. Dribble on the right 5 times, then switch to left 5 times without crossing. Build up to the crossover.
If they’ve got it: Do crossovers while slowly walking forward. Keep the same low ball and smooth hand exchange. No rushing.