Denying the pass is active defense. The defender positions their body between the ball and their player. This prevents easy passes and creates turnovers.
What you need: Basketball. Three kids per rep (passer, receiver, defender). Half-court.
Setup: Passer at the top of key. Receiver at the wing. Defender on the receiver in the deny position.
How to run it:
- Cue: Stance, Slide, Mirror, Hands.
- Defender gets between the passer and receiver. One hand in the passing lane, one hand behind the back for balance.
- Passer tries to pass to the receiver. Defender tries to intercept or deflect.
- If the pass gets through, the reps stops. If it’s deflected, the drill continues with a new rep.
- Do 8 reps. Rest. Rotate defender.
What to watch: Is the defender actually between the ball and player or are they off to the side? Between is the key. Body in the lane, not just a hand.
If they’re struggling: Have the passer pass from only 8 feet away instead of 15. Slow the pace. Let the defender practice positioning without worrying about interception.
If they’ve got it: Add game speed. Passer tries harder. Receiver tries to get open.