Mastering the Dribble Handoff in Basketball

Written by: Chris Hungerford

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Time to read 4 min

Basketball is a sport that demands a combination of skills, such as ball-handling, passing, defense, and fast-break offense. To enhance these skills, players and coaches must focus on drills that encourage teamwork, communication, and proper technique. One such drill that can help in this regard is the 4 on 4 full court pickup drill available on HoopsKing.com.

What does "Dribble Handoff" mean?

A dribble handoff, or DHO, is a basketball move in which the ball is passed to a teammate while the player is still moving. The player with the ball dribbles toward a teammate. The teammate gets the ball and keeps playing. This is not like a normal handoff, where the ball stays still.

Why is it important to do the Dribble Handoff?

The DHO is a useful and flexible play that can be used in many different ways. For example, it can be used to make space for a shooter, break down a defense, or put a player in a better position to score. It can also be used to take advantage of a player's strengths, like speed or the ability to shoot from far away.

How to do the Dribble Handoff: Tips and Tricks

Timing is Everything:


The DHO will only work if it is done at the right time. The person who has the ball has to wait until a teammate is in the right spot to get it and make a play. In the same way, the other teammate must be ready to get the ball and move quickly.

dribble handoff

Communication is Important:


For a DHO to work, the person with the ball and the teammate must talk to each other. They need to agree on when and where the handoff is going to happen. Communication that doesn't involve words, like eye contact and body language, can be just as helpful.


Master your footwork. Footwork is a key part of doing the DHO. The person who has the ball must use their footwork to make space and get into the right spot to pass. The teammate needs to move quickly and efficiently with their feet in order to get to the ball.


Practice, practice, and more practice. The DHO, like any other basketball skill, needs a lot of practice to master. Players should practice the DHO in different ways, such as in transition, against a zone defense, or with a specific player in mind.


Be creative:

There are many ways to use the DHO, so players should be creative and try out different ways to use it. For example, the person with the ball could pretend to pass and then drive to the basket, or a teammate could use a screen after getting the ball to make more space.

dribble handoff

5 Drills to Learn the Dribble Hand Off

Cone DHO Drill:


Set up two cones about 10 feet apart, and dribble toward the first cone. When you reach it, perform a DHO with a stationary partner or a wall and continue dribbling toward the second cone. Repeat the drill several times, alternating hands and partners.


3-on-3 DHO Drill:


Set up a half-court game with two teams of three players. Only allow players to score off of DHOs. This will force players to practice setting screens, timing their cuts, and executing the DHO in game-like situations.


Two-Ball DHO Drill:


Start by dribbling two basketballs at once, one in each hand. Approach a stationary partner and perform a DHO with one ball while continuing to dribble the other. Switch hands and repeat the drill.


Dribble and DHO Drill:


Dribble towards a partner and pass the ball to them while they cut towards you. Then, receive the ball back and immediately perform a DHO. Repeat the drill several times, alternating roles with your partner.


Circle DHO Drill:


Stand in a circle with several teammates and pass the ball around while moving in a circle. When the ball comes to you, perform a DHO with the person to your left or right before passing the ball to the next teammate in the circle. This drill helps you practice quick decision-making and executing the DHO on the move.

FAQs in Relation to Mastering the Dribble Handoff in Basketball

What is the purpose of a Dribble Handoff in basketball?

The purpose of a Dribble Handoff is to create scoring opportunities, break down a defense, or take advantage of a player's strengths.

What is the difference between a Dribble Handoff and a normal handoff?

In a Dribble Handoff, the player with the ball is still moving while passing to a teammate, whereas in a normal handoff, the ball stays still during the exchange.

What skills are important for performing a Dribble Handoff effectively?

Timing, communication, and footwork are crucial skills for performing a Dribble Handoff effectively.

How can a Dribble Handoff be used to take advantage of a player's strengths?

A Dribble Handoff can be used to put a player in a better position to score by taking advantage of their strengths, such as speed or the ability to shoot from far away.

Conclusion

The DHO is an important tool for a basketball player. With the right timing, communication, footwork, practice, and creativity, players can use the DHO to make scoring opportunities and help their team win. So go out and start doing the DHO right away!


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