Which are the best dribbles in basketball history? A list of the greatest techniques

Dribbling plays a crucial role in helping players score. At the highest levels, players apply these techniques with great skill and precision. Some players are especially famous for their dribbling ability. basketscores.com answers the question: Which are the best dribbles in basketball history?

Which are the best dribbles in basketball history?

In reality, there is no perfect dribbling technique. Players must learn to use different moves in different situations to be effective. This article is not a ranking but a list of key techniques.

1. The Crossover

The Crossover is one of the most iconic and effective dribbling techniques used to deceive defenders. To execute it, there are three main steps. First is the setup: dribble toward the defender at a moderate speed while lowering your center of gravity to prepare for acceleration.

Next is the sell, which is the most important step. The player fakes a move by stepping, leaning the shoulder, and looking in one direction to make the defender believe that is the intended path. Finally comes the cross: once the defender reacts, quickly switch the ball to the other hand and explode in the opposite direction.

There are many variations of the crossover, but all rely on sudden changes of speed and direction. Players like Allen Iverson, Tim Hardaway, Kyrie Irving, and Stephen Curry are famous for this move.

2. In-and-Out Dribble

Another effective deceptive move is the In-and-Out Dribble. While dribbling (for example, with the right hand), use your hand to slightly roll the ball outward as if preparing to switch hands. At the same time, lean your body and step in the fake direction, with your eyes following the same movement.

Instead of switching hands, quickly snap the ball back to the original side and accelerate. Unlike the crossover, the ball stays on one side of the body, making it harder for defenders to steal. Guards like Kyrie Irving and Stephen Curry use this move very effectively.

3. Behind-the-Back

This technique has two main variations: crossover and wrap-around. In the crossover version, the ball is passed from one hand to the other behind the back to change direction quickly without exposing the ball. The wrap-around version involves circling the ball around the waist to shift direction smoothly.

This is a very safe move because the ball is shielded from defenders. It also disrupts defensive reactions, as the ball disappears from the front and reappears on the other side. Skilled players can perform this move without losing speed, making it highly effective in fast breaks.

4. Hesitation (Hesi)

A Hesitation move works by changing rhythm. While dribbling quickly, the player suddenly slows down, slightly straightens up, and looks at the basket as if preparing to shoot. The off-hand comes near the ball, making the defender think a shot is coming.

This often causes the defender to jump or step forward. Variations include the Hesi Cross (followed by a crossover), the Hesi Pull-up (immediate jump shot if the defender backs off), and the In-and-Out Hesi, which combines multiple fakes to confuse the defender.

5. Spin Move

The Spin Move is used to escape defenders by rotating the body. While dribbling forward, step close to the defender and use your pivot foot to spin 360 degrees. During the spin, keep your back toward the defender to protect the ball. After completing the move, switch hands and continue driving or shoot.

This move is especially effective in the low post, where bigger players use it to get past defenders. The sudden rotation often causes defenders to lose balance.

6. Pullback Dribble

The Pullback Dribble is used to create space. While moving forward, plant your lead foot to stop quickly, then pull the ball backward with your dribbling hand. This sudden change creates distance between you and the defender.

From there, you can take an open shot or reset the play. This move is also useful when under pressure or trapped, allowing you to retreat to a safer position and reassess the situation.

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