Basketball Concentration Games

Basketball requires constant concentration throughout the game. Whether on offense or defense, players need to be aware of multiple tasks every second. A dribbler needs to have one eye on the ball and one eye on his defender, and at the same time he must be looking for an opening to pass or shoot. Defenders must follow their assignment while recognizing where every other player is on the court. There are many practice games for basketball that can help improve concentration.

  1. "Knockout"

    • "Knockout" is a classic basketball game featuring two balls and a line of players at the free throw line. The first person in line shoots a free throw. As soon as the ball hits the rim, the second player shoots. If player two scores before player one, player one is knocked out. If player one scores before player two, he passes the ball to the third person in line, moves to the end of the line and the game continues. With many things going on this game, players must concentrate on shooting, rebounding and passing.

    "Knock Away"

    • "Knock Away," a dribbling game, emphasizes ball-handling, defensive pressure and concentration. Players are placed in a grid and each is given a basketball. Everyone begins dribbling the ball around the grid. While dribbling, players try to knock away the basketball from opponents. If you lose your ball, you are out of the game. Players must concentrate on dribbling their own ball, but they must also eliminate opponents and be aware of other defenders. The game continues until one player remains dribbling in the grid.

    Rebound and Pass

    • Rebounding and passing require concentration, and there are a number of games that combine both skills. Line players up at the free throw line, and give a basketball to the first person in line. This person throws the ball off the backboard, rebounds the ball and in midair, passes the ball off the backboard to the next person in line. The next person catches the rebound and in midair, passes the ball off the backboard to the next person. Continue the drill as long as possible. This game helps players concentrate on securing a rebound and throwing a suitable pass all in one motion.

    Skills Challenge

    • Stephen Curry won the 2011 NBA Skills Challenge, in which players make their way through an obstacle course.

      In 2003, the NBA instituted a Skills Challenge at All-Star Weekend. The game features players going through an obstacle course that includes dribbling through cones, throwing chest and bounce passes and converting on a jump shot and layup. This is a game that translates well to any level of competition. Set up a similar obstacle course on your practice court. Time each player going through the course and announce winners. In the 40 to 60 seconds it takes to complete, players have to concentrate on a variety of basketball skills.