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Passing / 7 MINUTES

Pivot to a triangle window

Use a legal pivot and a receiving angle to see past a defender.

ON THE FLOOR

Partner / station setup
Pivot to a triangle window — drill diagramThree passers form a triangle around one guided interceptor. The example finds 3 through the uncovered side; receivers move only enough to remain in view.Clear side window123X
Three passers form a triangle around one guided interceptor. The example finds 3 through the uncovered side; receivers move only enough to remain in view.
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 9–11

Coach the pivot separately before adding the interceptor. Use a soft, cooperative defender.

Ages 12–14

Change the defender’s shade between catches and ask receivers to create the next window themselves.

Work & rest
Four passes or one tip per defensive turn, then rotate and reset spacing.
Look for success
The passer keeps a legal pivot and chooses a visible receiver outside the covered line.
Players

3 passers and 1 guided interceptor

Equipment

One basketball, Three perimeter markers

Space

A broad triangle outside the paint or in open space

Set it up

Three attackers form a wide triangle. A guided defender begins inside it and shades one passing line. Keep the triangle small enough for controlled passes.

Run the activity

  1. The ball holder establishes a pivot foot and looks at both teammates rather than turning blindly into pressure.
  2. The defender shades one line without swiping through the passer’s arms. The other receivers adjust a step to stay visible.
  3. Use a controlled fake or pivot, then pass through the clear window. The receiver catches and finds both teammates again.
  4. Rotate the defender after four passes or a tip. Reset the triangle if the players collapse toward the ball.
ONE CUE TO SAY OUT LOUD

“One foot stays. Two windows to see.”

Watch for this

Lifting the established pivot foot before starting a dribble, or passing through the defender’s chest.

Make it easier

Have the defender announce which line is covered and keep the receivers still.

Add a challenge

Allow the defender to change the shaded line after each catch while the offense keeps a no-dribble rule.

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.