Dynamic point guard for the Orlando Magic, Cole Anthony is known for his exceptional dribbling skills. Anthony’s ball-handling abilities did not just develop overnight. They are the result of rigorous training and dedication. He often credits his impressive handles to a variety of basketball dribbling drills that focus on improving speed, control, and agility.

Cole / IG / Orlando Magic Point Guard, Cole Anthony, credits his incredible ball-handling skills to the wide variety of basketball dribbling drills he practices.

Anthony’s training regimen includes a mix of traditional and innovative drills. For instance, he incorporates cone drills to enhance his agility and crossover moves. By consistently challenging himself with these exercises, Anthony has developed the quick reflexes and precise control needed to outmaneuver defenders on the court.

Now, let’s explore the top basketball dribbling drills:

Cone Dribble Drill

Basketball dribbling drills like the cone dribble drill are perfect for enhancing your agility and ball control. Set up a series of cones in a straight line, spaced about three feet apart. Dribble the ball in and out of the cones using crossover moves, ensuring you keep your head up and maintain control of the ball. This drill mimics real-game situations where you need to navigate through defenders.

Figure Eight Dribble Drill

The figure eight dribble drill is fantastic for improving your hand-eye coordination and control. Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart and dribble the ball around your legs in a figure-eight pattern. Start slowly and gradually increase your speed as you become more comfortable.

Nik / Unsplash / To boost your hand-eye coordination and control, practice the Figure Eight Dribble Drill.

This drill helps you get a better feel for the ball and improves your ability to handle it in tight spaces.

Two-Ball Dribble Drill

The two-ball dribble drill is one of the most challenging yet effective basketball dribbling drills. Dribble a basketball in each hand simultaneously, starting with a basic dribble. As you gain confidence, try variations such as alternating dribbles and crossover dribbles.

Notice that this drill enhances your ambidexterity and overall ball-handling skills, making you a more versatile player.

Behind-the-Back Dribble Drill

Mastering the behind-the-back dribble can be a game-changer. Start by dribbling the ball at your side and then quickly move it behind your back to your other hand. Practice this motion repeatedly to build muscle memory and confidence.

Thus, this drill helps you develop a smoother and more controlled behind-the-back dribble, allowing you to evade defenders with ease.

Zig-Zag Dribble Drill

The zig-zag dribble drill is excellent for practicing your defensive maneuvers while improving your dribbling. Begin at one baseline and dribble diagonally to the free-throw line, then change direction and dribble diagonally to the opposite sideline.

Tim / Unsplash / To develop top-notch agile athleticism on the court, consistently practice the Zig-Zag Dribble Drill.

Continue this zig-zag pattern across the court. Focus on quick, sharp changes in direction and keeping your dribble low to the ground.

One-Handed Pound Dribble Drill

The one-handed pound dribble drill focuses on strengthening your dribbling hand. Stand in a low athletic stance and dribble the ball as hard as you can with one hand. At the same time, keep the dribble low and controlled.

Ideally, perform this drill with each hand separately. It helps build strength and endurance in your wrists and forearms. You bet! These are crucial for maintaining control during intense gameplay.

Remember, improving your handles with these top basketball dribbling drills can elevate your game and make you a formidable player on the court. Take a page out of Cole Anthony’s playbook and incorporate a variety of drills into your training routine to enhance your speed, control, and agility.