Setting into the Basketball Hoop

A mini volleyball accuracy drill in which students set the ball into a basketball hoop from different distances. It works on the height, direction and power of the set and on aiming at a high target.

How to play

1. Make 6 groups of 4 (one of 5), one per basket. Place cones at 1.5, 2.5 and 3.5 m from the basket, in line with the rim (2 min).
2. Self-set (3 min): from the 1.5 m cone, each student tosses the ball up, receives it at the forehead and sets it to the basket; 5 tries, then switch.
3. With a tosser (3 min): a partner tosses the ball high from the side and the setter sends it into the basket; rotate every 5 tries.
4. Game-like play (4 min): one student tosses from the back, another forearm passes to the setter, who sets it to the basket. Basket: 3 points; hitting the rim: 1. Rotate all three roles.
5. Contest (3 min): each group adds up points; anyone who scores from 1.5 m moves to the 2.5 m cone and then to 3.5 m.

Rules

• Nobody stands under the rim while someone is setting.
• Collect rebounds only after your teammate has finished.
• Only baskets made with a two-hand set count.

Variations

Adaptations

• Limited mobility: sets seated from 1 m and may catch before pushing.
• Low vision: a partner claps next to the backboard to guide the set.
• Mixed ability: students who struggle aim to hit the backboard; skilled students set from 3.5 m without catching.

Learning goals

• Aim the set at a high target.
• Adjust the power of the set to the distance.
• Set a target number of baskets and track progress.

Equipment for a class of 25

• light balls: 12
• low basketball hoop: 6
• cones: 18

Teacher tip

If the ball comes off flat, have students get lower under it and look at the rim before pushing. Use light mini volleyballs: real basketballs hurt the fingers and ruin the technique.

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