When I train a beginner, I start with the fundamentalsāball handling, footwork, and balanceābecause these are the foundation for everything in basketball. I focus on teaching proper technique slowly and clearly, making sure the player understands why each skill is important. From there, I add in repetition and simple drills to build confidence and muscle memory. I keep the workouts positive and encouraging so the player stays motivated, while also setting small, realistic goals they can accomplish early. As they improve, I gradually introduce more advanced movements, but I always make sure the basics are strong first.
WE STACK DAYS
4th Lesson
⢠Reinforce dribbling under pressure (cones, defenders, or added movement).
⢠Work on finishing at the rim with both hands.
⢠Add passing on the move (bounce, chest, overhead).
⢠Begin introducing defensive stance and slides.
5th Lesson
⢠Combine ball handling with change of speed and direction (crossover, hesitation).
⢠Refine shooting form (set shots, short range).
⢠Introduce spacing concepts ā where to be on the floor without the ball.
⢠Light competition drills to build confidence.
6th Lesson
⢠Add combo dribble moves into finishing (crossover to layup, spin to layup).
⢠Progress shooting mechanics into free throws.
⢠Emphasize communication and talking during drills.
⢠Continue defensive principles ā staying low, closing out.
7th Lesson
⢠Start teaching offensive footwork (jab steps, triple threat position).
⢠Introduce mid-range shooting.
⢠Add defensive recovery drills (closeout ā slide ā contest).
⢠More conditioning tied into basketball movements.
8th Lesson
⢠Apply skills in small-sided games (1v1, 2v2, 3v3).
⢠Practice finishing through contact.
⢠Introduce basic pick-and-roll concepts (screening, spacing).
⢠Reinforce balance and control under game-like pressure.
9th Lesson
⢠Expand dribble moves (between the legs, behind the back).
⢠Add shooting off the dribble.
⢠Defensive positioning off the ball.
⢠Teach simple transition drills (fast break with passing).
10th Lesson
⢠Combine all fundamentals into structured game play.
⢠Emphasize decision-making: when to dribble, pass, or shoot.
⢠Focus on confidence and consistency ā turning skills into habits.
⢠Wrap-up with a skills test/challenge to measure progress from Day 1.
This is the easiest breakdown.
Second Session
⢠Review of fundamentals from the first session (ball handling, stance, footwork) to build comfort and confidence.
⢠Introduce controlled dribbling drills using both hands, basic layups, and simple passing techniques.
⢠Light conditioning (footwork ladders, balance work) to improve coordination.
⢠Emphasis on repetition and correctionāhelping the player feel more natural with the ball.
Third Session
⢠Reinforce ball-handling and finishing while adding decision-making (when to dribble, pass, or shoot).
⢠Introduce basic shooting mechanics: proper form, hand placement, and balance.
⢠Incorporate simple 1-on-1 breakdowns (shielding the ball, using pivots, attacking space).
⢠Begin light āgame-likeā situations to show how skills connect to real play.
⢠Focus on confidenceāmaking sure the player feels progress and excitement.