How to Teach the Game of Basketball

Teaching the game of basketball may at first seem a daunting task. According to Michigan high school and collegiate coach Kathy McGee, knowing how to teach effectively is just as important as having knowledge of the rules of the game. In order to develop a high-performing team, coaches must always be prepared to act in this teacher role. Teaching basketball also involves significant dedication to the development of each player as an individual and as a team member.

Things You'll Need

  • Basketballs
  • Traffic cones
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Instructions

    • 1

      Demonstrate basic dribbling skills to your players. Show dribbling in place with each hand and proper body positioning for protecting the ball. Have players practice what you have just demonstrated. When they become skilled at dribbling in place, set up a series of traffic cones in a straight line with about three feet of space between cones. Ask players to dribble around the cones, weaving in and out until they have passed the last cone. Be sure that they maintain a physical position that protects the ball. As players become more skilled, move the traffic clones closer together and repeat the same exercise.

    • 2

      Demonstrate passing skills by showing the proper form for overhead, chest and bounce passes. Assign each player a partner and instruct them to practice these passes together. Have partners stand about eight to 10 feet apart at first, As they become more adept at passing, instruct them to step farther away from each other and practice passing from various distances.

    • 3

      Demonstrate correct form for shooting layups, jump shots and free throws. Have players practice these shots in the way you have just shown. Watch carefully as they shoot, and be prepared to offer feedback to each player. You may have to work more intensely with some players than others to ensure that they learn shooting skills correctly.

    • 4

      Divide your players into two teams and hold a practice game so they can begin to apply the fundamentals of the game. Practice games offer the opportunity for instruction in defensive and offensive skills, teamwork and basic rules of the game. Call a timeout to address mistakes as you notice them. If you see a problem, it is important to correct it without hesitation so that your players can learn from the experience.

    • 5

      Meet with each player regularly to offer individualized feedback. This can be a learning experience for both player and coach --- you have the opportunity to help the player improve her game, and you learn how to become a better teacher. Working individually with players helps you to become accustomed to each of their learning styles.