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On-ball defense / 5 MINUTES

Guard a walking gate

Learn to stay between a partner and a target without grabbing or bumping.

ON THE FLOOR

Partner / station setup
Guard a walking gate — drill diagramThe attacker walks toward one of two gates while the defender stays between the partner and the target. The rep freezes before the bodies or gate become crowded.Walk · no ballFreeze before the gate1X
The attacker walks toward one of two gates while the defender stays between the partner and the target. The rep freezes before the bodies or gate become crowded.
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 6–8

Demonstrate a slow walk and a big stopping gap. Do not add stealing or a basketball yet.

Work & rest
Three short walking trips, then change jobs and reset the gates.
Look for success
The defender moves their feet and can stop without reaching, grabbing or colliding.
Players

2: walking attacker and shadow defender

Equipment

Four flat markers

Space

A small clear area with two wide exit gates

Set it up

Make two wide gates behind the defender. The attacker starts several walking steps in front. There is no ball; everyone first rehearses moving and stopping with space between bodies.

Run the activity

  1. The attacker walks toward one gate while keeping a predictable pace and avoiding body contact.
  2. The defender moves to stay in the path with enough room to stop, using short balanced steps rather than reaching.
  3. Freeze before either player reaches the gate. Point out where the open space and defender were.
  4. Try three gentle trips, then swap jobs. Count balanced stops and good spacing rather than wins.
ONE CUE TO SAY OUT LOUD

“Move your feet. Leave room.”

Watch for this

Using hands to stop the partner or running backward faster than the child can control.

Make it easier

Let the attacker announce the gate and move one step at a time.

Add a challenge

Allow the attacker to choose the gate after the first walking step, still keeping the pace gentle.

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.