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Passing / 8 MINUTES

Four passers, two readers

Use pivots, fakes and receiver movement to keep two defenders from reading the next pass.

ON THE FLOOR

Partner / station setup
Four passers, two readers — drill diagramFour perimeter attackers work against two interior readers. The example uses the left edge while an off-ball receiver adjusts; it does not prescribe the next pass against a changing defense.1234XX
Four perimeter attackers work against two interior readers. The example uses the left edge while an off-ball receiver adjusts; it does not prescribe the next pass against a changing defense.
1PlayerXDefenderBallMovePass / shotDribble

Motion is off with your reduced-motion preference. The setup and action paths show the rep.

MAKE IT FIT YOUR GROUP

Coach the players in front of you.

Ages 15–18

Use opponents who can challenge passing lines without body contact. Speed the read only after pivots and spacing stay sound.

Work & rest
Three short possessions per defensive pair, then rotate and recover.
Look for success
Attackers create a fresh passing angle before the ball holder runs out of options.
Players

4 perimeter passers and 2 interceptors

Equipment

One basketball, Four boundary markers

Space

A wide rectangular passing area

Set it up

Four attackers occupy the corners of a wide rectangle. Two defenders start inside. Choose a rectangle that permits crisp passes without overhead lobs or collisions.

Run the activity

  1. The offense keeps a no-dribble possession while receivers adjust along their own edge to open a window.
  2. The ball holder may pivot and fake but must find a visible receiver before passing. Never throw through two aligned defenders.
  3. Count four consecutive controlled catches as one point. A tip, turnover or five-second hold ends that possession.
  4. Rotate both defenders after three possessions, regardless of score, so the pressure stays useful and everyone receives passing reps.
ONE CUE TO SAY OUT LOUD

“Move the window before the ball.”

Watch for this

Holding the ball until trapped while the other three attackers watch from fixed corners.

Make it easier

Use one interceptor or widen the rectangle until receivers can recognize a clear lane.

Add a challenge

Let one defender pressure the ball and the other intercept, then switch those jobs on a coach cue.

Coaching references

Original HoopSketch activity and drawing. These references informed the coaching principles; the age fit, constraints and pacing are our editorial guidance. Adjust to readiness and your league’s rules.

Age and development framework

References checked October 22, 2026. Basketball-coach review pending.