Tips to improve your handles

Improving your handles can help you maneuover around all your defenders.

Master the Fundamentals
Dribble with your fingertips – Not your palm, for better control.
Keep your head up – Avoid looking at the ball while dribbling.
Stay low – A lower stance gives you better balance and control.
Improve Ball Control
Pound Dribbles – Dribble hard in place with both hands to build control.
Figure 8 Drills – Dribble around your legs in a figure-eight motion.
Stationary & Moving Drills – Work on dribbling in place and on the move.
Increase Speed & Confidence
Cone Drills – Dribble through cones to improve quickness.
Two-Ball Dribbling – Dribble two balls at once to improve coordination.
Change of Pace – Mix slow and fast dribbles to keep defenders guessing.
Work on Moves
Crossovers – Quick side-to-side movements to change direction.
Behind-the-Back Dribble – A smooth way to shift directions.
Hesitation Dribble – A quick fake to freeze defenders.
Spin Move – A strong move to escape tight defenses.
Game-Like Drills
1v1 Dribbling – Practice handling against a defender.
Full-Court Dribbling – Work on controlling the ball while moving fast.
Reaction Drills – Have a partner call out moves for you to react quickly.
Learn from the Best
Watch players like Kyrie Irving, Steph Curry, Allen Iverson, or Ja Morant—they use elite ball-handling skills to create space and make getting past their defenders look easy.