What is a Double Dribble in Basketball
A double dribble is a basketball violation that occurs when a player dribbles with both hands simultaneously or stops dribbling and then begins dribbling again.
A double dribble is a basketball violation that occurs in one of two situations:
- A player dribbles the ball with both hands simultaneously
- A player stops dribbling, holds the ball, and then begins dribbling again
When a double dribble is called, the ball is awarded to the opposing team at the nearest inbound spot.
When a Double Dribble Occurs
Both Hands at Once
The ball must be pushed by one hand at a time. If a player uses both hands to dribble — essentially palming the ball — it is a double dribble. This rule ensures dribbling is a single-hand skill.
Dribble, Stop, Dribble Again
Once a player picks up their dribble (holds the ball in both hands or picks it up), they may no longer dribble. Their options are to pass or shoot. If they dribble again after picking up the ball, a double dribble is called.
This is why the ability to "keep your dribble alive" is so important — it gives a ball handler options. Once you kill your dribble, defenders know you must pass or shoot.
Double Dribble vs. Carry
A carry (also called palming) is a related violation where a player turns their hand too far under the ball while dribbling, effectively carrying it. This is similar to a double dribble in that it gives the dribbler an unfair advantage and is penalized the same way.
Double Dribble in Youth Basketball
Double dribble violations are extremely common among young, developing players who have not yet learned proper ball-handling technique. Teaching players to keep the ball bouncing and to avoid picking it up in traffic is a fundamental of youth coaching.
How to Avoid a Double Dribble
- Practice dribbling continuously without picking up the ball
- Learn to hesitation dribble and crossover dribble to change direction without stopping
- Learn to pass out of pressure instead of picking up the ball under defensive pressure
- Work on ambidextrous dribbling to have both hands available