It is no secret that one of the most important fundamentals of basketball is passing. When teams pass the ball well, they have more open looks and go on to score more points. This is why passing is one of the key elements of basketball training for kids. So, here we’ll explore the most common passes that should be included in your children’s basketball classes.
Chest Passes
As the name suggests chest passes are delivered from the chest. During our basketball classes for kids, your child will be taught to use their fingers to make the throw. Hand placement is important as after the pass the thumbs should be pointing down, but passing with a hand on top using the thumbs is also acceptable. Chest passes with thumbs create a knuckle effect, while regular chest passes create backspin. This type of pass should be thrown with zip; it shouldn’t be floated unless touch is needed. However, if your child is throwing to a wing player, they need to really get something on it, so that the receiving player is in a position to shoot.
Football or Baseball Pass
This depends on who is throwing and how the coach uses the terminology, but this pass has a time and place. This type of pass is thrown like a baseball and is used for one of two purposes; a long pass or a pass that needs some extra fire.
For a long pass that needs to go over a defender, the ball should be thrown high enough, but also where it can be caught by the offense. The extra fire type of pass needs preparation. The ball should be up by your child’s head where it can get some real speed.
Bounce Passes
Some coaches feel very strongly about bounce passes, so they are likely to be a big part of basketball training for kids of all ages. This type of pass is thrown using the same mechanics as chest passes, but the pass ends up at the waist of your teammate. A bounce pass can’t be floated as the ball will slow down; it should be thrown with some purpose. On a fast break, a bounce pass can be used to lead a player, but the lack of speed may not be suitable for point guards to pass to wing players.
Behind the Back Passes
Many consider this type of pass to be showing off, but it does actually have a purpose. This type of pass is taught as it can be useful in certain situations if it is properly prepared. The ball needs to be in the player’s strong hand and rested. The ball should be taken behind the back and rested again. By simply flicking the wrist, the ball will go. While this isn’t easy straight away, but after some practice is a useful shot. A good way to practice is to stand against a wall and pass it over and over. As your child gets more confident, they’ll be able to handle these basics and start working on the harder stuff.
If you’re considering basketball training for kids, you should speak to us. We offer a range of basketball classes for kids of all ages. We would be delighted to help your child develop their skills and confidence to nurture their love of the game.
