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Small-sided games / 7 MINUTES

Two-on-two end-zone passes

Create passing windows and move after a pass in a simple team game.

ON THE FLOOR

Partner / station setup
Two-on-two end-zone passes — drill diagramTwo teammates pass toward the upper target zone against two guided defenders. The receiver stops for each catch; play resets after a point or dropped ball.Controlled catch = 1 point12XX
Two teammates pass toward the upper target zone against two guided defenders. The receiver stops for each catch; play resets after a point or dropped ball.
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 walking defenders and a coach outlet; stop dropped balls immediately and celebrate useful passes.

Ages 9–11

Introduce pass interceptions after spacing is understood. Keep legal pivots and no body contact as clear rules.

Work & rest
Four short possessions, then a group pause and a fresh checked-ball start.
Look for success
Both teammates offer reachable targets and move into different spaces after passing.
Players

2 teams of 2

Equipment

One suitable basketball, Six flat boundary markers

Space

A broad small court with a shallow target zone at each end

Set it up

Mark two end zones. Teams score one point for a controlled catch inside the attacking zone. Begin with walking defenders, no ball-stripping and no dribbles; a player holding the ball may pivot legally.

Run the activity

  1. Check the ball to begin. The teammate without it moves to an open window while the ball holder looks before passing.
  2. After a pass, the passer moves into another clear space. Receivers stop to control the catch and keep their pivot legal.
  3. A catch in the target zone ends the possession. A dropped pass also stops play so the coach can restart without a scramble.
  4. Change ends and check the ball after each possession. Play four possessions, then pause to name a good move into space.
ONE CUE TO SAY OUT LOUD

“Pass, then find new space.”

Watch for this

Both teammates standing inside the target zone while the ball holder has no reachable outlet.

Make it easier

Add a coach as an always-available neutral passer and use stationary defenders.

Add a challenge

Let defenders intercept passes without contact, while keeping immediate checked-ball restarts.

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.