Who do I cover?

It can be frustrating but sometimes you just have to let things go.  Some kids get it and some things come over time.  The younger kids focus on the ball and forget they are covering the kid wide open under the net.  We don't keep score in our division so there is still time to teach them. 

GAME - Practice with one kid playing defense and another playing offense.  Try to pass to the kid playing offense.  He scores 1 point if he gets the pass and 1 point if the defensive player gets the ball.  Over time they will learn to stay with the player they are covering.

Control Dribbling

Many young players really need to learn how to dribble the basketball.  A good drill is to have them sit on their butts with their legs out in front.  First dribble with their right hand and then with their left hand.  Make sure they use their fingertips only to help control the dribble.  Now have them stand and alternate from hand to hand while keeping thier head up.  Once they master dribbling with their heads up, have them move up the court. Practice is always the best way to become a good ball handler.  Dribbling in front of a mirror will also help keep their head up.