Zig-Zag Slides

Skill drill

Build a low, sliding defensive stance and change of direction.

6 min any Full court · dual
DefenseFootworkU10U12U14
Press play
OffenseDefenseBall / cone Move Pass
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Setup

Players start on the baseline in defensive stance. Set a zig-zag path with cones if you have them.

Steps

  1. 1Slide diagonally to the first cone in defensive stance.
  2. 2Drop-step and change direction, slide to the next cone.
  3. 3Continue zig-zagging up the court.
  4. 4Add a ball-handler to defend for the older group.

Coaching points

  • Stay low — 'sit in a chair'.
  • Don't cross your feet — push-slide.
  • Hands active, chest over knees.

Why kids love it

Pair them up and race two lines — competition makes staying low much less boring.

Variations

Easier

Just slide side-to-side along the baseline, no cones.

Harder

Live 1-on-1: defender zig-zags containing a dribbler.