Sample Practice Plans

60-minute practice templates organized by grade level with two practices per week

← Back to Coaches Box

These sample practice plans are designed for teams that have two 60-minute practices per week. Practice #1 focuses on fundamentals and skill development, while Practice #2 emphasizes team concepts and game preparation.

Select Grade Level:

Grades 1-2 Practice Plans

Focus: Fun, basic motor skills, introduction to basketball concepts

Practice #1 - Skills Focus

Time Duration Focus Area Activity/Drills
0:00-0:10 10 min Warm-Up & Starter Drills Dynamic stretching, simple layup lines, two-man passing (chest pass focus)
0:10-0:25 15 min Individual Fundamentals Ball handling (stationary dribbling both hands), footwork (pivoting game), shooting form (close to basket)
0:25-0:35 10 min Emphasis of Week: Ball Fakes Shot fake drill, pass fake drill, fun games incorporating fakes
0:35-0:50 15 min Team Concepts Simple offense - spacing and passing, basic defensive stance, passing and moving
0:50-1:00 10 min Special Situation & Cool Down Baseline out of bounds (BLOB) - simple version, 3v3 scrimmage, stretch and review

Practice #2 - Team & Game Prep

Time Duration Focus Area Activity/Drills
0:00-0:10 10 min Warm-Up & Starter Drills Stretching, dribbling warm-up, follow the leader, layups
0:10-0:25 15 min Individual Fundamentals Ball handling (dribble tag), shooting (form shooting games), footwork (jump stops)
0:25-0:35 10 min Emphasis of Week: Communication Calling for the ball, talking on defense, helping teammates
0:35-0:50 15 min Team Concepts Basic defense - staying in front, play call of week (simple pass and cut), team offense spacing
0:50-1:00 10 min Special Situation & Scrimmage Side out of bounds play, 4v4 scrimmage practicing concepts, cool down

Coaching Tips

  • Be Flexible: Adjust practice plans based on your team's needs and skill level.
  • Keep It Moving: Minimize downtime by having equipment ready and transitions planned.
  • Positive Reinforcement: Catch players doing things right and praise effort.
  • Water Breaks: Allow quick water breaks during transitions between segments.
  • Arrive Early: Equipment is at the gym in a bag. Arrive early to ensure hoops are set to the right size and you have the right equipment ready. Put all equipment back in the bag when done.
  • End on a High Note: Finish practice with something fun or a team cheer.
  • Emphasis of the Week: Change your weekly emphasis to keep practices fresh (rebounding, screens, inbounds, communication, ball fakes, help defense, etc.).