The coach’s role is to encourage and allow players to play in contested situations (from 1v1) and to discuss with the players “cues” that indicate when they may be able to beat the defender.

A “push” dribble is similar to a throw down dribble - a throw down dribble is used as the players starts their dribble, whilst a push dribble is used if they are already dribbling.

With the push dribble, the dribbler is pushing the ball into an open space and then moves after the ball. Obviously, if they push the ball too far away from their body it may allow defenders to intercept it.

The position of the defender’s head is often important as it will affect the defender’s balance.

In defending a ball screen, the screener’s defender may move into the path of the dribbler. Whether this is simply a “show” or a double team, the dribbler will look for an opportunity to “split” the two defenders (i.e. dribble between them).

The dribbler, pushes the ball between the defenders and then moves their body through the gap.

Another opportunity to “split” defenders is when a help defender comes across to stop dribble penetration. The offensive player may pick up the ball and jump through the gap or they may push the dribble through and then follow.

A push dribble can also be used where a defender moves across to stop a dribbler. Here 1 has to change direction and could use a cross over dribble, however that tends to keep the ball near the defender.

The “push” dribble moves the ball away from the defender, and then 1 moves to it.