How it Works
Set up a start and finish line using cones across the gym or playing area. Each player has a basketball and starts behind the baseline.
- Players dribble while moving across the court pretending to be different animals. (See list of examples below)
- The coach calls out a new animal every few round, prompting players to change their movement while maintaining control of the ball.
- The challenge is to stay creative, coordinated, and in control of the basketball while moving.
Variations
🐰 Rabbit Hops
- Players dribble while doing small two-foot hops like a bunny.
- Teaches rhythm, body control, and keeping the ball bouncing with movement.
🦆 Duck Walks
- Players dribble low in a squat, waddling forward like a duck.
- Builds strength, balance, and ball protection posture.
🐍 Snake Slither
- Players weave side to side while dribbling, like a snake slithering.
- Mimics change of direction moves.
🐒 Gorilla Stomps
- Players dribble while walking with heavy, wide stomps and bent knees like a gorilla.
- Reinforces a low, powerful stance and strong dribbles.
🐘 Elephant Steps
- Players dribble while taking slow, exaggerated “big” steps.
- Works on ball control with long strides and changes in tempo.
🐎 Horse Gallops
- Players dribble while galloping (one foot leading, other trailing).
- Builds coordination and introduces rhythm changes.
🐦 Bird Flaps
- Players dribble while flapping arms like wings.
- Forces them to handle the ball without relying on “steadying” with the other hand.
🐱 Cat Sneak
- Players dribble while tiptoeing lightly and quietly like a cat.
- Teaches control, soft hands, and light footwork.
Progression/Variation
- Add a race element: first player across the line after each animal call wins. (be careful with this option, though, as players will just try to rush through things and no do the movements properly)
- Partner version: one player calls the animal, the other player performs it.
- Use only the non-dominant hand for dribbling throughout the movements.
Coaching Points
- Encourage players to stay low and wide in their movements to develop balance and core strength.
- Reinforce soft ball control when dribbling, not slapping the ball.
- Celebrate creativity and effort, even if players struggle with movement control.
Why This Drill Works
Traditional ball-handling drills can be boring for very young players. Dribble Animal Walks injects fun, movement variety, and silliness while still reinforcing basic dribbling skills. It teaches body awareness, balance, and ball control all at once. Kids stay fully engaged because they get to play, pretend, and compete—without even realizing they’re developing critical athletic skills.
