15/09/2026
Fundamentals of Passing in BasketballDemonstrated by: Shri Ramkumar Ji, International Coach
The first fundamental of basketball is passing. Before every pass, two things must be checked - Passing Line and Passing Angle. If both are not clear, it is not the right pass.
1. What is Passing Line?
The imaginary straight line between the passer and the receiver.- The line must be free from any defender’s hand, leg or body.
- If a defender is cutting the line, do not force the pass. Use a fake, dribble, or change the angle.
- A clear passing line means the ball can reach without being intercepted.
2. What is Passing Angle?
The angle from which you deliver the ball.
- **Body Angle:** Keep the defender on one side and create a new angle to pass.
- Wrong angle, even with power, will always be intercepted. Right angle beats tight defence.
Both Passing Line and Passing Angle have to be clear at the same time.”**
# # # 3. When to Make a Long Pass?
Long Pass: Overhead Pass, Baseball Pass
- During a fast break when your teammate is open ahead.
- When the court is open and there is no defender in between.
- To quickly transition from defence to offence.
- **Condition:** Only when you have seen the receiver clearly and you are confident about accuracy. Never throw a blind long pass.
**1. Look Before You Pass:** Don’t look at the ball, look at the space where your receiver will be.
**2. Fake Before Pass:** A small fake up or down will disturb the defender and clear the line.
**3. Step Into The Pass:** Always step towards the receiver while passing. It gives power and direction.
**4. Communicate:** Eye contact or a small call for the ball.
**5. Follow Through:** After the pass, your hands and fingers should point towards the target.
**Common Mistake to Avoid:** Jumping in the air and then deciding to pass. Always pass with your feet on the ground.
**Final Takeaway for Players:** A good passer is not the one who passes hard, but the one who passes at the right time, with a clear line and a clear angle.
