Best Basketball Drills (2026): Shooting, Dribbling & Defense

Shooting Drills

1. Form Shooting (5 feet from basket) Stand 5 feet from the basket and shoot 50 one-handed shots focusing purely on wrist snap and follow-through. No legs. This isolates the most important part of the shooting motion.

2. Catch-and-Shoot (Wing Spots) Have a partner pass to you at the wing. Catch, set your feet, and shoot in one fluid motion. 10 reps from each wing. Focuses on footwork and shot preparation.

3. Free Throw Routine Shoot 50 free throws daily with a consistent pre-shot routine. Track your percentage. Free throws are the only uncontested shot in basketball — there's no excuse for a poor percentage.

Ball Handling Drills

4. Two-Ball Dribbling Dribble two balls simultaneously for 60 seconds. Alternating, simultaneous, and staggered patterns. Builds hand independence and dribble consistency.

5. Cone Dribbling Set up 5 cones in a line, 3 feet apart. Dribble through them with crossovers, between-the-legs, and behind-the-back moves. Builds change-of-direction speed.

Defensive Drills

6. Defensive Slides Slide laterally in defensive stance for 30 seconds without crossing your feet. Builds the hip strength and footwork needed to stay in front of your opponent.