Ball-handling drill

How to do the in-and-out dribble

The in-and-out looks like a crossover, then stays in the same hand. It is one of the simplest ways to move a defender without giving them a chance to steal.

What is the in-and-out dribble?

In an in-and-out, you push the ball inward as if you are going to cross over, then turn your hand over the top and pull it back out to the same side. The ball never leaves your hand side.

The fake works because of your head and shoulders. They dip toward the cross while the ball comes right back. A good in-and-out is about selling direction more than ball tricks.

When to use it in a game

Use it when a defender is anticipating your crossover. Show the cross, keep the ball, and drive past their weight shift. It is effective when you are attacking off the dribble at a medium pace.

Combine it with a real cross to keep defenders guessing: in-and-out, then a crossover going the other way. It also pairs well with a hesitation.

How to do it, step by step

1. Dribble with your right hand at about knee height while moving forward slowly.
2. As the ball comes up, place your hand on the outer side of the ball.
3. Push it inward toward your midline while dipping your head and shoulder left.
4. Before the ball crosses your midline, rotate your hand over the top to its inner side.
5. Push it back out to the right and drive off your left foot to the right.
6. Practice slowly until the hand turn feels natural, then add speed.

Common mistakes

• Carrying the ball. If your palm goes under the ball during the turn, it is a carry. Keep your hand on the side and top.
• No body fake. If your shoulders do not move, the defender will not either. Sell it with the head and chest.
• Going too far inward. If the ball goes past your midline, you lose control. Small move, big body.

Three progressions

1. Stationary in-and-out. Thirty reps in place each hand, focusing on the hand turn.
2. Walking in-and-out. Walk forward and do one each three steps, then switch hands.
3. In-and-out plus cross. In-and-out right, then a real crossover left. Repeat both sides.

5-minute in-and-out dribble workout

How Handles AI coaches it

Coach Ace calls “In and out!” at random, so you have to react rather than plan. Handles AI watches your movement through the front camera and grades each rep, which helps you notice when the fake is getting lazy.

In-and-out reps feed your Control and Creativity ratings. Game Moves mode is a good place to use it alongside other moves.

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