Behind-the-Back Dribble
Add a behind-the-back move to change direction and protect the ball.
What this drill teaches
A change of direction that keeps the body between ball and defender. Wrapping the ball around the hip — not lifting it — means the move protects the ball at the exact moment a crossover would expose it.
In games: When a defender cuts off the drive, the crossover puts the ball right in front of them — the behind-the-back changes direction with the ball shielded, so pressure doesn't become a steal.
- Ball wrapping low around the hip, not lifted behind the back
- Stance staying low through the move
- Walking reps flowing without a stutter or pause
U12: stationary reps with plenty of balls rolling away — normal. U14–U16: expect crossover-into-behind-the-back combos past a cone at speed, and try the two-ball version.
Equipment
1 ball each
Setup
Players spread out in athletic stance.
Steps
- 1Stationary behind-the-back, right to left, 10 reps.
- 2Left to right, 10 reps.
- 3Walk forward wrapping it behind on each step.
- 4Combine: crossover into behind-the-back.
Coaching points
- Wrap the ball around your hip, don't lift it.
- Stay low and balanced.
- Head up.
Why kids love it
A flashy, high-level move kids are hugely motivated to master.
Variations
Stationary only, slow reps.
Add a cone and go crossover–behind-the-back–crossover past it without breaking stride.
Dribble two balls and wrap only the right one behind, keeping the left alive.