Side-to-Side Rebound Drill over the Hoop
A partner drill where the rebounder tosses the ball off the backboard so it sails over the rim to the other side of the lane, then moves quickly to catch it up high before it hits the floor. Students work on rebounding at the ball's highest point, leg power, and protecting the ball.
How to play
- Make pairs at each basket: one rebounder and one counter; the rebounder starts outside the lane on one side of the rim with the ball (1 min).
- The rebounder tosses the ball off the backboard with two hands so it crosses over the rim to the opposite side of the lane.
- They slide quickly or take a crossover jump, catch the ball in the air with two hands, and land with feet wide and the ball chinned.
- Without bringing the ball down, they toss it off the backboard to the other side and repeat; the counter counts clean catches in 30 seconds.
- Switch roles after each set and do five sets per person with 1 minute of rest (11 min).
- Record each person's best set and challenge them to beat it next class.
Rules
- Only two-handed catches in the air count.
- Protect the ball with elbows out but never swing them at anyone.
- Safety: land with bent knees and don't twist on a locked leg.
- Only one pair per side of each basket.
Variations
Easier
Allow one bounce before the catch and toss the ball lower.
Standard
Catch in the air and cross the lane in 30-second sets.
Harder
Add a putback every four catches without bringing the ball below the head.
Adaptations
- A student with limited mobility does a toss-and-catch version off the backboard from one side without crossing.
- For students who are hard of hearing, the counter signals start and stop with a raised hand.
- Shorten sets to 20 seconds for less-fit students.
Learning goals
- Catch the rebound with two hands at its highest point.
- Land balanced and chin the ball.
- Build jumping power and lateral quickness.
Equipment for a class of 25
- basketballs: 12
- basketball hoops: 6
- stopwatches: 6
Teacher tip
This drill is demanding, so limit the sets and stress landing quality over quantity. If the rim is high for the group, accept a toss that crosses in front of the rim instead of over it.
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