Passing is the key to great basketball. A pass is a method of moving the ball between players. A team must be able to handle the ball well to be successful. Good passing will get the ball down the court and give your team scoring opportunities. Most passes are accompanied by a step forward to increase power and are followed through with the hands to increase accuracy.

You should maintain your balance as you move to meet the ball. Catch the ball with your fingertips and bring it toward your body. When the ball is under control, place both hands on each side of the ball so that you can pass quickly or get a shot off.

Remember to stay relaxed, keep your head up, and control the ball. Click through the slides below to see the different styles of passing.

Chest Pass This is one of the most basic passes. The ball is passed directly from the passer’s chest to the receiver’s chest. Release the ball by extending your arms, snapping your wrists, and stepping towards the player receiving the pass. A good follow-through will help you make a good pass. Flip Pass This pass is used in close exchange with your teammate. It can be used when the defense is using heavy pressure. Softly flip the ball to a teammate by snapping your wrists. This pass is very effective in getting the ball to a teammate who is driving to the basket off a screen set by another player. Bounce Pass In this pass, the ball bounces about two-thirds of the way from the passer. This pass can be made with one or two hands. The pass is used for short distances to pass around a defender. For the two-handed bounce pass, hold the ball in much the same manner as for the chest pass, except about waist high. Then, push the ball out and down at an angle so that the ball bounces to your teammate. The one-handed bounce pass is often executed directly from the dribble. It does take longer to complete this pass, but it is more difficult for the defender to intercept. Overhead Pass This pass is used to throw the ball over a defender. Pass the ball from behind your head, coming over it and aiming for the area of the receiver’s chin. Follow through in the direction of the pass with your arms and hands. Baseball Pass This pass is used most often as a long pass beginning a fast break. Bring the ball to the side of your head, with your right hand behind it. Hold the ball with both hands; as it is released, take your left hand off the ball as you step forward with your right foot. It is very similar to throwing a baseball.

The most important technique of a good pass is making it difficult for the defense to intercept. For this reason, large arc-shaped and cross court passes should be avoided.