Zone Defensive Handoffs teaches developing through advanced defenders how to pass off the ball carrier between zones, maintaining defensive shape and preventing dangerous openings inside.
SET UP
Set defenders in their assigned zones and use an offensive player to carry the ball from one zone into the next. As the ball crosses zones, the on-ball defender communicates the switch and drops back while the adjacent defender steps up to take the ball. Progress by working handoffs between crease and elbow defenders, emphasizing returning to assigned areas after each switch.
COACHING POINTS & PRINCIPLES
- Own Your Zone: Don’t follow the ball carrier like man-to-man defense; hand them off as they enter the next defender’s area.
- Communicate the Switch: The incoming and outgoing defenders must communicate so the ball is never left uncovered.
- Eliminate Holes: Recover to your zone after every handoff—following a player too far creates gaps that offenses can exploit for inside shots.
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