What is general information about the speed dribble in basketball
Basic definition
The speed dribble consists of action that occurs when an offensive player in possession of the basketball quickly dribbles it, typically while moving from one end of the court to the opposite end.
Speed dribble is typically more effective when utilized by the team’s fastest players
The speed dribble, as the name implies, is generally more effective when it is utilized by the offensive team’s fastest players as opposed to the team’s slower and/or less agile players.
In terms of basketball positions, the fastest players are usually perimeter-based players such as the point guard, shooting guard, or small forward.
Moreover, the speed dribble could be considered as well by hybrid positions such as the combo guard or the swingman because those types of perimeter-oriented players will also usually possess an adequate amount of speed and quickness.
On the other hand, the speed dribble might not be as effective when executed by potentially slower post-oriented players such as the traditional power forward or center.
Additionally, it should be noted that the point guard, who is generally the team’s most skilled player as it relates to dribbling, would more than likely gain the greatest benefit from performing the speed dribble at the appropriate time during a basketball game.
Essentially, the point guard, as the team’s primary play initiator in most cases, would generally have possession of the ball more than other positions and would therefore be able to execute the speed dribble at a higher percentage rate than those other players.
Speed dribble could generate potential scoring opportunities
The speed dribble could create possible scoring opportunities, especially near the basket but also near the perimeter areas of the court in certain instances.
For example, during transition offense, an offensive player such as a guard could speed dribble down the court, particularly as a one man fast break, and score points via a layup before the transition defenders are able to protect the basket or stop the ball.
As another example during primary break, an offensive player in possession of the ball could speed dribble down the court and pass the ball to another player cutting to the rim who could then score via a layup or dunk.
Alternatively, an offensive player could speed dribble down the court and pass the ball to another player who could score points via an open mid-range or three-point jump shot.
Furthermore, as another possible option, an offensive player could speed dribble down the court and simply raise up themselves via stop and pop action for a mid-range or three-point jump shot.
Speed dribble could be used as a counter to defensive pressure
Although, the speed dribble is generally more practical within the open court, it could also be utilized as a counter to defensive pressure in certain situations.
For example, let’s say that there are two teams playing a 5 on 5 basketball game denoted as Team A and Team B respectively.
Let’s also say that Team A initially has possession of the ball and they successfully score points on Team B.
After that, a player from Team B such as the power forward or center, grabs the ball, steps out of bounds near the adjacent baseline, and throws the ball to the point guard of Team B via the inbound pass.
It should also be noted that the point guard of Team B would be facing the adjacent baseline while catching the ball from the teammate executing the inbound pass.
Next, as the point guard of Team B gains control of the ball within the offensive team’s backcourt, the point guard of Team A implements pressure via full court man to man defense.
When that occurs, to alleviate the pressure, the point guard of Team B initially uses their left foot as a pivot to turn and face up with the defensive point guard while establishing the triple threat position.
This also gives the point guard of Team B an opportunity to utilize court vision to see the entire floor and locate teammates or other defenders.
Following that, the point guard of Team B could quickly jab step with the right foot while keeping the opposite pivot foot stationary.
When that happens, it would more than likely cause the point guard of Team A to slightly open their defensive stance, which also creates a bit of separation between the two point guards.
From there, the point guard of Team B could speed dribble with the left hand into the offensive team’s frontcourt.
As a result of that dribble action, the point guard of Team A would be effectively forced to chase after the point guard of Team B while trying to get back in front so that potential dribble penetration into the lane gets mitigated or completely eliminated.