3-on-3 Half Court
Put the day's skills into a real, game-like situation.
What this drill teaches
How the game actually works — spacing, help defence and playing with teammates — at a size where every kid touches the ball constantly. Small-sided games teach decisions no drill can script.
In games: The transfer step itself — kids who only ever drill often freeze in real games; regular 3-on-3 makes game night feel like just another Tuesday at practice.
- Players cutting or screening after passing, not standing to watch
- Defensive talk — 'ball!', 'help!' — without prompting
- The ball touching every hand before a shot goes up
U10: bunched-up beehive ball is normal — keep re-spacing them and playing on. U14–U16: expect real spacing, unselfish extra passes and honest defensive talk.
Equipment
1 ball, half court
Setup
Split into teams of 3. Winner stays on, next team rotates in.
Steps
- 1Play half-court 3-on-3, make-it-take-it or straight-up.
- 2'Make a pass before you shoot' rule encourages teamwork.
- 3Games to 4 baskets, then rotate.
- 4Coach freezes play once or twice to teach a quick point, then plays on.
Coaching points
- Move after you pass — don't stand and watch.
- Talk on defence: 'ball!', 'help!'.
- Everyone touches it before a shot.
Why kids love it
Kids come to play games. Small-sided means way more touches than 5-on-5, and rotation keeps energy high.
Variations
Coach-officiated, generous whistle, focus on fun.
Add a scoring twist: assists count as a point.