Abstract
<jats:p>The article examines the theoretical and methodological aspects of developing technical and tactical skills in young basketball players at the initial stage of training, particularly within the framework of adaptive physical education and sports. Special attention is given to defining pedagogical and training principles for forming basic technical skills, developing game thinking, and enhancing decision-making abilities during gameplay. The authors emphasize that the initial stage of training, which typically corresponds to early school age, is characterized by heightened sensitivity of children to pedagogical influences and shapes foundational attitudes toward physical activity, positive sports motivation, and self-confidence. The article provides an analysis of contemporary scientific approaches to organizing the training process using game-based methods, which ensure natural activity, stimulate interest in physical activity, and develop fundamental motor skills. Specific exercises for improving ball handling, passing, shooting, movement in the game space, and teamwork skills are presented. It is demonstrated that the gradual complication of exercises, rule variations, and adaptation of loads to the individual psychophysical characteristics of children are crucial for ensuring safe and effective learning. The authors highlight the importance of developing pedagogical skills in young athletes as a set of organizational, communicative, analytical, and constructive actions, which contribute not only to deeper mastery of technical and tactical elements but also to the development of independence, critical thinking, and increased motivation for sports participation. Emphasis is placed on the need to individualize the training process, taking into account age and functional capabilities, which is especially relevant in adaptive physical education for children with limited functional abilities. The article also addresses practical aspects of training young basketball players in terms of developing technical and tactical skills: step-by-step teaching of technical techniques combined with simple tactical actions, the use of game-based and didactic exercises, and the integration of pedagogical tools into the training process. Examples of exercises are aimed at improving coordination, attention, spatial orientation, decision-making speed, as well as stimulating social interaction and teamwork among children of varying skill levels. The authors conclude that the comprehensive combination of game-based methods, individualized training, and the development of pedagogical skills ensures harmonious physical, psychological, and social development of children, forms a positive attitude toward sports, promotes independence and responsibility, and lays the foundation for further improvement of technical and tactical skills. The materials of the article can be applied in pedagogical practice, methodological support of adaptive physical education, and the training of young basketball players and other sports disciplines.</jats:p>