Passing Blueprint

Passing Fundamentals

Passing is an essential skill that helps teams move the ball efficiently and create scoring opportunities. Good passers make quick decisions, use proper technique, and understand spacing. This guide covers the fundamentals of passing and how to improve accuracy and timing.

Hand Position: Control and Guidance
Feet Position: Balance and Power
Passing Mechanics
Follow-Through
Aiming
Passing Checklist

1. Hand Position: Control and Guidance

A good pass starts with proper hand positioning. Grip the ball with both hands, fingers spread wide for maximum control. Your thumbs should form a “V” shape together, ensuring a strong grip while allowing a smooth release.

Your dominant hand provides most of the force and direction for the pass, while your off-hand helps stabilise the ball. Keep your wrists relaxed yet firm to generate precision and control.

2. Feet Position: Balance and Power

You are in your athletic stance with your weight evenly distributed to maintain control and generate power for your pass.

Step into the pass with your foot in the direction of your target. This forward momentum increases pass strength while improving accuracy.

3. Passing Mechanics

Each pass should be fluid and controlled, utilising your whole body for power and precision. The key types of passes include:

Chest Pass: Hold the ball at chest level, push forward using both hands and snap your wrists to generate speed and accuracy.
Bounce Pass: Aim for two-thirds of the way to your teammate, allowing the ball to bounce up to their waist level.
Overhead Pass: Bring the ball above your head and extend your arms forward for a quick, high-release pass.
Lead Pass: Pass to a moving player by putting the ball in front of them so they can catch without changing speed.

4. Follow-Through

A proper follow-through enhances accuracy and control. Extend your arms fully toward your target, finishing with your thumbs down and fingers pointing to your target. This ensures a smooth and direct pass.

After the pass, get open for the shot or cut for a drive.

5. Aiming

The best place to deliver a pass is right in the shot pocket. However, if the defence is affecting the pass you will have to adjust your target.

When passing, focus on your teammate’s target hands or chest area. If the defence is near, but the pass is still open, pass to the hand that’s furthest from the defender.

If your teammate cutting, use a lead pass to ensure they receive the ball in stride.

Use the bounce pass or a lob pass to get past a defender who can step into the passing lane.

6. Passing Checklist

Athletic stance with balanced feet
Eyes up, scanning the court for passing options
Hands positioned for control and power
Step into the pass for added momentum
Follow through the ball, pointing to your target.
Pass with accuracy and purpose, avoiding unnecessary force

Use this checklist to refine your passing technique and ensure high-quality reps every time!

Strong passing keeps an offence moving and creates better shots for the team. Using the right types of passes and reading the defence will help you become a more effective playmaker.