5v0 Pass & Pick Away Drill for Youth Basketball: Master Off-Ball Movement
Drill Setup
Use all five offensive players, positioned in a 5-out alignment (one at the top, two on the wings, and two in the corners).
There is no defense involved—this is purely to build offensive flow and understanding.
Equipment Needed:
One basketball
Half court or full court
Coaches to call out instructions or observe execution
How the Drill Works
Step-by-Step Execution
Initial Spacing: Players start in a 5-out alignment.
First Action: Player at the top ('1') passes to either wing ('2' or '3').
Pick Away: After passing, '1' immediately makes a read to screen away—they set a screen for the player furthest from the ball.
Read and Cut: The screened player uses the screen to cut toward the ball or curl toward an open spot. The screener opens up after the screen, filling empty space.
Next Pass: The ball continues to move to the next player. The passer repeats the pass and pick away concept.
Flow: This continues through all five players, simulating a fluid offense in motion. Emphasize not dribbling unless necessary.
Key Variations
Run from both sides of the floor.
Allow cutters to make different reads: backdoor, curl, or flare.
Add a finishing action (e.g., layup, midrange shot after 3–4 cuts).
Coaching Points
Head on a swivel: Players should constantly scan the floor.
Set strong screens: Teach players how to plant their feet and give teammates a real chance to get open.
Cut hard and with purpose: Movement should be game-speed, even with no defense.
Fill empty space: Players must maintain spacing by replacing spots after cuts and screens.
Communication: Teach players to call out screens early (e.g., "screen left").
Why This Drill Works for Youth
The drill simulates team play without relying on dribbling or athletic mismatches. Young players often fixate on the ball, and this drill retrains their instincts toward off-ball action, which is where most real scoring chances originate in team basketball.
Running this consistently builds:
Muscle memory for proper spacing
Trust in teammates and timing
Court vision and anticipation
Understanding of motion offense principles
It’s also ideal for transitioning into live play, as you can later add defenders or finish the drill with a 5-on-5 scrimmage.
Teaching Progression
Start with 5-on-0 slow walkthroughs, then:
Add defenders on the ball or in help spots to simulate game situations.
Set time or rep limits (e.g., 8 continuous passes without turnovers).
Introduce scoring goals (e.g., complete 5 passes and finish with a layup).
Drill Benefits
Builds offensive spacing discipline
Improves team movement timing
Teaches screening angles and cutting routes
Encourages communication
Great warm-up for motion-based offenses
Final Takeaway
The 5v0 Pass & Pick Away Drill isn’t flashy—but it’s fundamental. Youth coaches looking to instill strong offensive habits should make this a regular part of their practice plan.
By teaching players to pass, move, and screen within a flowing structure, you’re setting the stage for smarter team basketball down the line. Plus, it scales up easily into more complex offenses as your players improve.
Drill it, rep it, and watch your team transform.
