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Slide-Protection Dribble
Description

Use this fundamental dribble move when you need to advance the ball in an open court situation while being closely guarded.

Proper Technique
  • In this dribble, your body is turned halfway against the defender so that your off hand is in front of you and the ball is dribbled on the hand away from the defender. Keep your non-dribbling slightly bent and low in front of you to protect the ball against the defenders reach.
  • Keep your dribble about knee height and slightly off your back hip.
  • As you advance, use a step and slide motion with your front and back foot respectively.
  • Keep your head up and always be able to see the court.
  • To change direction using this dribble, reverse-pivot off of your front foot so that as you spin your back is facing the defender. As you pivot, the front, off hand becomes your dribbling hand and the former dribbling hand becomes the protection hand.
Tips
  • Practice this dribble the length of the court and change hands several times each trip.
  • This dribble is often used in combination with other dribble moves when advancing against pressure; practice combinations too.