HOOPSKETCHBASKETBALL
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Small-sided games / 6 MINUTES

Two-on-one gate pass

Recognize an open partner and send a catchable pass around one guided defender.

ON THE FLOOR

Partner / station setup
Two-on-one gate pass — drill diagramTwo partners use short passes around a walking defender toward a broad target gate. 2 must stop to receive; the forward route begins only after a legal pass or a separate reset.Catch beyond the gate12X
Two partners use short passes around a walking defender toward a broad target gate. 2 must stop to receive; the forward route begins only after a legal pass or a separate reset.
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 a soft ball or a gentle bounce pass when catching is new. The defender guides the read rather than trying to win every pass.

Work & rest
Two short trips, then rotate and take time to reset the spacing.
Look for success
The pair finds an open passing window and the receiver stops under control for the catch.
Players

2 partners and 1 walking lane defender

Equipment

One soft or suitable basketball, Four flat markers

Space

A small rectangle with a wide target gate

Set it up

Two attackers begin several walking steps from a wide cone gate. One defender stands between them and the gate. The target is a controlled catch beyond the gate, not a basket or a fast break.

Run the activity

  1. The ball holder stays balanced while the partner walks toward a visible receiving window. The defender may walk to shade one passing lane, with no swipes or contact.
  2. Pass or gently bounce the ball to the open partner; the receiver stops to catch and holds the ball instead of running with it.
  3. Work toward a controlled catch beyond the gate using short passes. If no window is open, freeze and let the coach help the receiver move.
  4. Reset after a gate catch or loose ball and rotate the defender after two trips. Everyone stays in the game.
ONE CUE TO SAY OUT LOUD

“Find the open hands.”

Watch for this

The ball holder running with the ball or forcing a pass through the defender’s body.

Make it easier

Keep the defender still and let a coach guide the receiver into the open side.

Add a challenge

Allow the walking defender to adjust after each pass, while keeping the no-steal 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.