IMG Basketball Training: Intermediate Ball Handling Drills

IMG Academy has facilitated the overall athletic development of athletes for more than 35 years. From countless NBA and international pros like Amar’e Stoudemire, Iman Shumpert, Jimmy Butler, and Maurice Harkless, to thousands of youth athletes, IMG Academy helps athletes of all ages and ability levels reach their full potential. By teaching revolutionary, innovative, and comprehensive training programs, athletes are able to improve across all areas of their game.

This training series addresses shooting and dribbling techniques for all levels of basketball athletes. These are two important skills that every player can apply to their game and also the two skills that make NBA stars like Stephen Curry unstoppable! Visit SLAM every Tuesday to check out a new drill, from beginner to advanced, to take your game to the next level.

To learn more about IMG Academy’s boarding school or camp programs, visit IMGacademy.com.

Intermediate #1: Reaction Moves

Ball Drill 3 Inter 1

Instructions: The coach will stand outside of the three-point line. Players will drive the ball at the coach as fast as they can. The coach will then call out a move for the player to make. The player will make the move as fast as possible while using the proper technique. The moves will get more difficult as the number of reps increases. Contact can be added as well as 50 percent defensive effort by the coach.

Purpose/Benefit: These game-like actions will help players learn to make better moves while trying to score. Reading the defense, keeping the ball low, and protecting the ball are key while improving this area.

Intermediate #2: Two Ball Intensity Weave

Ball Drill 4 (inter 2)

Instructions: Eight chairs or cones will be placed in a straight line. The player will begin with two basketballs and quickly dribble through the chairs at maximum speed. When the player gets to the last chair, he will go backwards through the chairs.  The coach will then add commands to each part for a more dynamic drill.

Purpose/Benefit: Improving overall speed and quickness with ball skills will come from this drill. Players must learn how to move efficiently with the ball while moving around obstacles. This drill will also help players when trying to avoid trap situations, other retreat situations, and on ball screens.

Related:
Intermediate Shooting Drills
Beginner Ball Handling Drills