The overhead pass gets over a defender. It’s longer than a chest pass and harder to cut off. This drill is about the footwork and the release from overhead.
What you need: Basketball. Two kids per pair. Open space.
Setup: Partners stand 12 feet apart facing each other.
How to run it:
- Hold the ball above your head with both hands. Elbows bent slightly.
- Step forward with one foot (the opposite foot from your passing side if you had one).
- Extend your arms forward and up slightly, releasing the ball with a quick flick of the wrists.
- The ball travels in an arc and arrives at chest height to your partner.
- Partner catches and returns it. Do 12 passes back and forth. Rest. Do 2 rounds.
What to watch: Is the ball staying above their head or are they bringing it down? Keep it high. If they drop it, they’ll telegraph the pass.
If they’re struggling: Use a lighter ball. Move closer to 10 feet. Have them practice the footwork and release without passing (shadow passes).
If they’ve got it: Add movement. Both kids walk forward slowly while passing. Builds skill under movement.