Last Updated on: 19th September 2023, 12:15 am
The change of pace dribble is a fundamental basketball move that involves a sudden shift in speed and direction to create space between the ball handler and the defender. It is an effective way to keep the defender off balance and create scoring opportunities.
To execute a change of pace dribble, the ball handler must first dribble the ball at a steady pace towards the defender. As the defender approaches, the ball handler should quickly slow down or even stop the dribble, causing the defender to also slow down or stop. The ball handler can then accelerate quickly in a different direction, using a crossover or between-the-legs dribble to get past the defender.
The key to a successful change of pace dribble is to sell the fake by making the defender believe that the ball handler is going in one direction before quickly changing direction. This requires good footwork, body control, and ball handling skills.
Practicing change of pace dribbles can help improve a player’s ability to create space and get past defenders. It can also be used in combination with other moves, such as a hesitation dribble or a spin move, to create even more scoring opportunities.
