Three Dribbles Max: Decision-Making 2v2

Half-court 2v2 games where each player can dribble at most three times per possession. It works purposeful dribbling, passing and teamwork.

How to play

1. 2v0 in pairs: move toward the hoop with three dribbles max per player before passing (3 min).
2. Half-court 2v2 with the three-dribble rule; going over is a turnover (6 min).
3. Same rule, and a basket scored off a pass with no dribble counts double (5 min).
4. 2v2 with free dribbling, then compare: did we dribble more or better than before? (4 min).
5. Quick talk: when is dribbling useful and when isn't it? (2 min).

Rules

• Each player counts their dribbles out loud.
• After a basket or turnover, the other team takes the ball from the three-point line.
• Man-to-man defense with no contact.
• Switch opponents every four minutes.

Variations

Adaptations

• Deaf or hard-of-hearing students: a teammate shows the dribble count with fingers.
• Wheelchair users: may carry the ball in the lap for two pushes without it counting as a dribble.
• Less experienced students: play at a separate hoop with defenders an arm's length away.

Learning goals

• Dribble only when it helps.
• Pass to a teammate at the right moment.
• Work with a teammate to beat the defense.

Equipment for a class of 25

• basketballs: 8
• basketball hoops: 6
• pinnies: 15

Teacher tip

Build balanced pairs and change opponents often. The usual mistake is wasting dribbles in place, so ask what each dribble was for.

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