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2 on 1 Keep Away

A fast-paced passing game that builds spacing, vision, and decision-making under pressure through simple 2v1 competition.

How it Works

Two offensive players work together inside a marked box or small half-court area while one defender applies live pressure. Start the ball with either offensive player. On your signal, the defender closes the gap and the offense must stay connected, use short passes, and keep the ball off the sideline.

Encourage players to slide into clean passing windows, meet every pass, and avoid drifting too far apart. The spacing habits they build here show up again in competitive games like 3-on-3 Cutthroat, where staying tight and moving together creates natural advantages.

Rotate roles quickly to keep the drill moving. As players improve, increase the defender’s pressure and demand stronger catches and quicker decisions. This ball movement focus also prepares players for transition reads in 2-on-1 Half Court Attack, and the passing angles they learn here carry directly into live actions like 3-on-3 Pass, Cut & Replace.

Progression Or Variation

• Shrink the space to increase defensive pressure
• Require three passes before switching roles
• One-touch passing only for advanced groups
• Weak-hand only dribbling for the player with the ball

Coaching Points

• Stay close enough to stay connected
• Catch on two feet and stay strong on balance
• Fake high, pass low to shift the defender
• Communicate early and meet every pass

Why This Drill Works

2-on-1 Keep Away helps players develop ball protection, spacing awareness, and quick decision making in a simple but realistic pressure situation. The rotational pace keeps everyone active while reinforcing skills that carry directly into games. The 2-on-1 Keep Away drill is an effective way to build teamwork and ball control in youth practices.

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Hoopsense featured image with the title "3-on-3 Cutthroat" over a black background and basketball graphic

3 on 3 Cutthroat

A competitive 3-on-3 drill that rewards scoring and stopping, perfect for teaching game-like transitions, communication, and intensity in small-sided play.
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