HOOPSKETCHBASKETBALL
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Help & recovery / 6 MINUTES

Pass, adjust, freeze

Move with the pass while remembering the same defensive matchup.

ON THE FLOOR

Half court · attack ↑
Pass, adjust, freeze — drill diagramA guards 1 and B guards 2. On the pass to 2, B closes with a cushion and A adjusts to see both the ball and 1; both defenders do not chase the receiver.Same matchups after the pass12XX
A guards 1 and B guards 2. On the pass to 2, B closes with a cushion and A adjusts to see both the ball and 1; both defenders do not chase the receiver.
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

Use slow passes and a freeze on every catch. Keep the ball defender several steps away.

Ages 9–11

Reduce the freezes as understanding improves; add a single relocation without adding steals.

Work & rest
Four passes per turn, then change roles and check spacing.
Look for success
Each defender still knows their matchup after every pass and arrives under control.
Players

2 passers and their 2 matched defenders

Equipment

One basketball, Two wide receiving markers

Space

A clear half-court area with no drive to the basket

Set it up

Place two passers far enough apart to make a comfortable pass. Each defender names one player to guard. The ball defender starts with a safe cushion; the other stands where both ball and matchup are visible.

Run the activity

  1. Pass on the coach’s signal. Both defenders take short adjustment steps as the ball travels.
  2. The defender of the receiver approaches with space to stop. The other defender steps into a position that keeps their player and the ball in view.
  3. Freeze before the next pass. Ask both defenders to point out their matchups and explain one adjustment.
  4. Complete four passes, then swap offense and defense. Rehearse slowly before allowing the passers to move a step.
ONE CUE TO SAY OUT LOUD

“Ball moves, feet move.”

Watch for this

Both defenders running at the receiver and leaving the other player forgotten.

Make it easier

Roll or carry the ball between the passers during a separate walking demonstration.

Add a challenge

Allow a passer to relocate one step after releasing the ball, while defenders retain their original matchups.

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.