Basketball Fundamentals - Footwork

From the Coachs Clipboard Basketball Playbook, @ http://www.coachesclipboard.net Basketball is played on the fingertips and the balls of your feet. Everything you do involves correct footwork. Some players are naturally quicker than others. But a player's effective quickness can be greatly enhanced if he/she uses proper footwork. A naturally quick player who lacks good footwork skills can be beaten (or contained) by a player with sound footwork fundamentals.

Offensive Stance
You always want to be in a good "basketball position" or stance. From this position, it is easier to start and stop, change direction and pace, jump, shoot, pass, catch and dribble. You should have your weight on the balls of your feet (the front part of the foot near the toes) and the feet should be shoulder width apart with the knees flexed. The head is centered above the lower body, and your hands are about chest high with your elbows bent and your arms close to your sides. When you actually have the ball on the perimeter, use the triple threat position so you are in a position to either pass, shoot or dribble.

Pivoting
When you are stationary on the court, the rules say you can move one foot around, as long as the other foot (the "pivot foot") remains planted on the floor. This is called pivoting and all players must know how to pivot. There are two types of pivots, the forward pivot and the reverse pivot (or drop-step). Pivoting is done on the ball of the foot. You do not want to become flat-footed or have your weight back on your heels. The ball of the pivot foot must be in contact with the floor at all times and must not slide sideways. When you pivot, just actually spin around on the ball of your pivot foot. If you pick up your pivot foot, or change your pivot foot to your other foot, you will be called for a traveling violation. When starting your dribble, the ball must leave your hand before you lift your pivot foot. When shooting a jump shot, you may jump and your pivot foot may lift off the floor, but you must release the ball from your hand before you land again on the floor. In a forward pivot, the player pivots forward, while in a reverse pivot, the player pivots backward. For example, let's say the left foot is the pivot foot (usually the case for a right-handed player). Here, a forward pivot would have the player pivoting (spinning), or stepping forward in a counterclockwise motion (if looking down from above). A reverse pivot would have the player pivoting, or stepping backwards (drop-stepping) in a clockwise motion. Just the opposite would be the case if the right foot were the pivot foot.

Which foot should be my pivot foot? Well, it could be either depending on the game situation. Outside, perimeter players most often will use their non-dominant foot as the pivot foot when facing the basket. For example, a right-handed player facing the basket will most often plant the left foot as the pivot foot and make a jab step with his/her right foot (see Perimeter Moves), and just the opposite would be the case for the left-handed player. Coaches vary on this, but we teach our perimeter players that if they are righthanded, the left foot should be the pivot foot, and lefties should use the right foot as the pivot foot. We believe this is simple and the most natural, athletic way for most players. Now a low-post player who has his/her back to the basket is often wise to receive the ball with both feet planted (as after a jump stop). This allows the player the option of selecting either foot for pivoting, depending on where the defender is located (for either a drop-step to baseline or a move to the lane -- see Post Moves). You must be able to pivot forward and backward using either foot.

Pivoting drills
1. Start with the left foot as pivot foot. Pivot forward 15 times. 2. Now backward pivot (reverse pivot) 15 times. 3. Switch pivot foot. Forward pivot 15 times. 4. Backward pivot (reverse pivot) 15 times.

Pivoting Pointers
1. You must keep your head up with eyes forward. 2. Have your knees bent a little. 3. Your pivot point must not change. 4. Your pivot foot does not slide.

How to Stop
There are two ways to stop, the one-two step landing and the jump-stop.

One-two step landing

When doing this landing (after a sprint or speed dribble), one foot lands first (the back foot) and then the second foot lands. The back foot becomes the pivot foot. When stopping, let the second foot to land extend wide from the back foot for better balance.

Jump-stop
When doing the jump-stop, both feet land simultaneously. The last step should be a hop and when you land, have your weight leaning backward a little to help slow your momentum. Using this stop, you are now free to use either foot as your pivot foot.

There is confusion over the rules and what is legal and what constitutes a traveling violation. My interpretation is this... it depends on whether you already have possession of the ball or not (as in receiving a pass), and whether or not you have already used up the one-step that you are entitled to. When receiving a pass with a jump-stop, you can pivot after the jump-stop and either foot can become the pivot foot. This is especially helpful for post players. A perimeter player can catch the ball with a jump-stop, and the pivot into triple-threat position if necessary and use the non-pivot foot for executing jab-step fakes or a drive step. Now let's take a player who already has possession of the ball on the outside. He/she makes a dribble move into the lane, picks up the dribble, takes one step, and then lands a two-footed jump-stop. So far, so good. But after landing the jump-stop, he/she cannot move either foot and has no pivot foot since the one step was already used up prior to the jump-stop. He/she could jump upward, but must either shoot or pass the ball before either foot touches the floor again. The following is taken from the National Federation of State High Schools web-site in regard to this rule. "The traveling rule has not changed. What has changed is the common use of the jump stop as an offensive move. Officials and coaches are having difficulty determining the difference between a legal and illegal move. The key to making this determination properly is first finding the pivot foot. Then, if the player moves a foot or the feet in any direction in excess of prescribed limits while holding the ball, a traveling violation has occurred. The limits follow: 1. A player who catches the ball with both feet on the floor may pivot, using either foot. When one foot is lifted, the other is the pivot foot. 2. A player who catches the ball while moving or dribbling may stop and establish a pivot foot as follows: a. If both feet are off the floor and the player lands; (1) Simultaneously on both feet, either foot may be the pivot. (2) On one foot followed by the other, the first foot to touch is the pivot. (3) On one foot, the player may jump off that foot and simultaneously land on both. Neither foot can be a pivot in this case. b. If one foot is on the floor; (1) It is the pivot when the other foot touches in a step. (2) The player may jump off that foot and simultaneously land on both. Neither foot can be a pivot in this case. 3. After coming to a stop and establishing a pivot foot: a. The pivot foot may be lifted, but not returned to the floor, before the ball is released on a pass or try for goal; b. If the player jumps, neither foot may be returned to the floor before the ball is released on a pass or try for goal; c. The pivot foot may not be lifted, before the ball is released, to start a dribble.

b. If the player jumps, neither foot may be returned to the floor before the ball is released on a pass or try for goal; c. The pivot foot may not be lifted, before the ball is released, to start a dribble. 4. After coming to a stop when neither foot can be a pivot: a. One or both feet may be lifted, but may not be returned to the floor, before the ball is released on a pass or try for goal; b. Neither foot may be lifted, before the ball is released, to start a dribble."

See Jump-Stop Drill. See video clip of jump stop - pivoting drill. I have tried to combine several of these moves into one drill. See Footwork Drill.

Changing Direction and Speed

To change direction, plant the opposite foot (the one opposite the way you want to cut), and then push off the inside part of that foot in the direction you want to go. For example, if you want to make a sudden cut to the left, plant the right foot and push off from the medial (inside) part of your right foot, changing your direction to the left. Learn to change speed from a fast run, to a slow hesitation, and then accelerate to full speed again. See the "hesitation dribble" on the Dribbling page.

Jumping
Lot of players and coaches think that jumping is some skill that you are born with...either you have it or you don't. Well this is not entirely true. You can improve jumping ability considerably, otherwise our Olympic high-jumpers would never practice. Jump rope and run sprints to build your legs and agility. Practice trying to touch the net, or backboard, or rim every day. Do it from both a running start, and standing stationary under the basket. Practice jumping every day for 5-10 minutes: Two-footed jump. Get under the basket and jump straight up and see how high you can get on the backboard or net. Bend at the knees and waist, weight forward a little on the balls of the feet. Lower your hands alongside the outside of your knees. Then spring upward with simultaneous force from not only the thigh muscles, but you also can get a lot of lift from springing off with your feet and ankles... pushing off the tips of your toes (you can't jump flat-footed!). At the same time your legs are working, your hands and arms are swinging up as high as possible... the upward force of the arms swinging may provide more lift, and you need to get them stretched as high as possible to get that rebound (or dunk). Do this jumping drill a number of times, until your legs get tired, and then try it again later.

One-footed jump. You can also do a jumping drill where you run in from the wing at a 45 degree angle and leap as high as you can and touch the backboard (or net). When you jump, just like doing a right-handed lay-up, you plant your left foot and go up with the right knee, pushing off the left toes. Be sure to go vertically, and not lose a lot of your elevation by going forward.

Faking and Cutting

You should learn to that just about every offensive move (and some defensive ones too), should be preceded, or "set up" by a good fake to get the defender to lean the wrong way. This is true, whether you are making an offensive jab-step, or you are coming off a screen, or even just about to make a pass. A little "mis-direction" move, like making a ball fake, shoulder or head fake, foot fake, or just an eye fake can open a lane for you to drive, cut, shoot or pass. Learn how to get open by making a front-cut, a V-cut, a backcut, or a curl (see Cutting and Faking).

The jab step

Outside, perimeter players should learn the jab step (or drive step) as a fake to set up either the drive to the hoop, or to create spacing for the outside shot. This move is explained in detail on the Outside, Perimeter Moves page.

Defensive Footwork
Defense is played mainly with the feet. You must move your feet quickly to stay in front of the offensive player. You must use a correct defensive stance. You must know how to slide (sideways, forward and backward). You must know when to turn and sprint. You must know how to "close-out" on the offensive man and play good "on-ball" defense.

Defensive Stance
Your weight should be on the balls of your feet (not your heels), and have your feet about shoulder width apart. Keep your knees bent and your back straight. Keep your head up, eyes forward, arms out with your palms up and elbows bent a little. Watch your opponent's belly-button. Your opponent can fake you with the eyes, a head bob, shoulder fake, a jab step, but the belly button is only going the way he/she is. See also Basic Man Defense and Defensive Tips.

Defensive Slides
When guarding your opponent, slide your feet sideways, using quick, short steps, and don't get your feet crossed. Don't hop. The key is "step and slide" (don't "slide and step"). Step with the foot on the side in the direction you want to move, and slide the opposite foot over. For example, if moving toward your right, step laterally with the right foot and

then let the left foot slide over. When moving leftward, step sideways with the left foot and let the right foot slide over. Don't "reach-in" and swipe at the ball, as this will cause you to lose your balance, allowing the defender to get around you. In addition, you may get the "reach-in" foul. If you get beaten in the open floor, don't just yell for help... turn and sprint after your opponent. Once you get in front of him/her again, get back into your defensive stance. See video clip. Footfire and Slide drill Have your players spread out, lined-up in two lines. Players are in a good defensive stance position. On "go", all players start the "footfire" with rapid moving of their feet up and down on the balls of their feet. After 10 seconds, call out "slide left" and the players slide several paces to the left. Then call "go" and they resume the stationary footfire. Have them move right, left, forward and backward using correct sliding and stance, and no crossing of the feet. Also see Z-Drill.

Close-out on the ball receiver

Defenders must learn to "close-out" on the player with the ball. Once the offensive player receives the pass, the defender should rush toward the ball-handler in a low stance. The last several steps should be quick, choppy steps to stop your momentum (so the defender doesn't dribble around you). Your baseline line foot should be back in order to force the ball-handler toward the baseline. As you approach the ball-handler, snap your shoulders and head back to help slow yourself down. See video clip. See 1-on-1 Drill , 2-Man Shooting Drills

Basketball Ball-Handling Fundamentals and Drills

From the Coachs Clipboard Basketball Playbook, @ http://www.coachesclipboard.net Learning to become a good ball-handler, and developing a feel for the ball for vitally important in becoming an excellent all-around player.

Hold The Ball Correctly

he most difficult skills, including shooting, passing, catching, dribbling, and rebounding, involve holding the ball. Work on these skills every day. Here is how to practice holding the ball:

Hold the ball with your fingertips. The palms of your hands should not touch the ball. Make sure your fingers are far apart. Hold the ball as much as possible at home while watching TV or listening to the radio or music. It is said that the great Pete Maravich slept with his basketball and held it during his sleep! While watching TV, you can hold the ball (with both hands) and spin it around in your hands.

Do ball handling drills at the start of nearly every practice and throughout the entire season. Players can really improve their ball handling skills by the end of the season. Very importantly, these drills can also be done at home, in the off-season, without the rest of the team. We have one of our better ball handlers lead the drill, and face the team. All the other players line up in rows facing the leader, and spread out so they don't get into each other's way. Everyone has a ball.

These are the drills:

Do each one about 30 to 60 seconds and then move to the next one. With all of these drills, try to keep your eyes forward, without looking at the ball.

Finger Grabs:
Hold the ball with the fingertips, squeezing it while rotating it back and forth from hand to hand. The ball should not touch the palms of the hands.

Slaps:
Pound or slap the ball hard from hand to hand. See video clip.

Tipping:
Tip the ball back and forth from one hand to the next, starting with your hands straight up over your head. Then gradually move the ball down, while continuing to tip it back and forth. Go down to your chest, then your waist, knees, and ankles, and then back up again. Keep your elbows straight. See video clip.

Circles:
Put your feet together and make circles around both legs. Then circle around the back. And then circle around the head. Then combine them and move the ball in circles around your head, then down your body, down around your knees, and then around your ankles ("candy cane"). Then come back up again. Be sure to use your fingertips, not the palms. See "Around Legs" video clip.

See "Around Waist" video clip. See "Candy Cane" video clip.

Around Each Leg and Figure Eights:

Put one leg forward and move the ball in a circular motion around the leg. Then do the other leg. Finally, spread your legs out wide with the ball in front of you. Move the ball around through your legs in a figure-of-eight motion. Keep your eyes forward and don't let the ball hit the floor. After 30 seconds, reverse the direction. See "Around Each Leg" video clip. See "Figure 8" video clip.

Drops:
Put the ball between your feet and grab it with both hands. Start with the left hand behind your left leg and your right hand in front of your right leg. Drop the ball and let it bounce once. Quickly, move your left hand in front of your left leg and your right hand behind your right leg, and catch the ball as it bounces up. Drop it again and switch your hands back to the original position (left behind, right in front) and catch it. Repeat this motion continuously. For a more difficult variation, try catching the ball before it actually hits the floor! See "Drops" video clip.

Toss Up and Catch Behind:

Here's a fun drill the players like. Toss the ball up over your head. Reverse pivot and catch the ball behind your back. See "Toss Up and Catch Behind" video clip.

Crab Walk:
Walk, bent over up the floor and put the ball between the legs, back and forth as you go. The ball is brought over the front of the thigh, then through the legs and then behind the opposite thigh and around and over the thigh. See "Crab Walk" video clip. Be sure to see the video clips of ball-handling drills. See also: stationary dribbling drills.

Basketball Dribbling
From the Coachs Clipboard Basketball Playbook, @ http://www.coachesclipboard.net

Dribbling is one of the most fundamental skills that must be learned. Not only is it important to learn how to dribble well, but it is important to know when, and when not, to dribble. One player who over-dribbles can kill a team's offensive motion and momentum. To become a good dribbler and ball handler, you must practice dribbling as often as you can, using both hands. You may dribble: 1. To advance the ball up the court. 2. To drive to the hoop. 3. To get open for a shot. 4. To open up a passing lane, to have a better chance of completing a pass. 5. To get out of a trap. 6. To kill the clock at the end of a game.

How to Dribble
Use your fingertips, not the palms of your hands.. Basketball is played on the tips of your fingers and the balls of your feet. Use your forearm and wrist to bounce the ball. Don't look at the ball... keep your head up and eyes forward. You must learn to use either hand. So when doing drills, always work both hands.

"Control Dribble" (when the defender is up close on you)

When a defender is guarding you closely, you should use the "control dribble". Keep in a somewhat crouched, bent over position. Keep your body between the ball and the defender. Keep the ball low to the floor, behind and close to your body. Keep your other arm straight out in front of you, as a guard against the defender. You can't push off, or grab the defender, but you can keep a "stiff-arm" to keep the defender from reaching

of you, as a guard against the defender. You can't push off, or grab the defender, but you can keep a "stiff-arm" to keep the defender from reaching around you. Do not stop your dribble until you can either pass or shoot. Once you stop your dribble, you are "dead in the water" (a boat with no engine)... and the sharks (the double team) will close in on you soon. See video clip.

"Speed Dribble" (in the open court)

To move the ball quickly down the floor use the "speed dribble". Push the ball forward, ahead of you several feet. Bounce the ball at least waist high. As always, keep your head up, and visualize the whole court, so you can find the open teammate. Move as fast as you can, but never faster than you can control the ball. You must always be in control. As Coach Wooden has said, "You must be quick, but never hurry." Often a jump stop at the end of the speed dribble will allow you to maintain control and avoid a traveling call (see Learning the Jump Stop). See video clip.

Crossover Dribble
Simply, the crossover dribble has you switch dribbling from one hand to the other, by bouncing the ball in front of you across to the other side. Then the other hand picks up the ball and you are now dribbling with the opposite hand. You can use this dribble to quickly change your direction on the court. For example, you could be on the point,

dribbling with your right hand to the right wing, then suddenly crossover the dribble to the left and drive up the lane. See video clip. Here's another cross-over dribble video clip.

In and Out Dribble

The "in and out" dribble is a good fake move to help you get around a defender and take it to the hoop. With this move, you make one bounce in front of you as if you were going to crossover, but instead of picking the ball up with your other hand, you just roll your dribbling hand over the top of the ball, and bring it sharply back and go hard around the defender. For example, if you are dribbling right-handed, make one dribble to the left in front of you and "dip" and put your weight on your left foot. To the defender, this looks like you will crossover and go left. Instead, roll your right hand over the top of the ball and bring it back quickly to the right, push off the left foot, and go hard around the right side of your opponent. See video clip.

Hesitation Dribble ("Rocker Move")

This is another fake move to help you get around the defender in the open court. You speed dribble up to the defender, then suddenly come to a stop by putting your inside foot forward and "rocking" backward onto your outside foot. Then as the defender closes, you blow around his side, resuming the speed dribble, straight to the hoop. For example, you are speed dribbling with your right hand. As you approach the defender, you stop suddenly by putting your left foot forward, and then rocking back on the right foot. This hesitation throws the defender's timing off. Then push hard off the right foot, and speed dribble around his right side. You can also use this move and combine it with a crossover dribble and go hard left. See video clip.

Behind the Back Dribble, Through the Legs Dribble

You used to be considered a "hot dog" if you dribbled behind your back, or through your legs. But not any more! These moves are very useful when used correctly, in the right situations. A good use for these dribbles is in the open court, such as a guard bringing the ball down the floor against pressure from a defender. As you are dribbling right with your right hand, the defender gets position and over-plays you to the right. Quickly, you do a behind the back, or between the legs dribble to crossover to the other hand, and change your direction to the left, leaving your defender in the dust! Why not just do an easier crossover dribble? -- because the defender is right in front of you and could steal the crossover. By going behind the back, or through the legs, you can better protect the ball by keeping your body between the ball and the defender. To do the behind the back dribble, dribble the ball once behind you and pick up the dribble with the opposite hand. For example, you are dribbling with the right hand. Get your body ahead of the ball on your right side, then crossover bounce it once behind you over to the left hand. See video clip.

The between the legs move is similar, except with one bounce through the legs to the other hand. See video clip.

Spin Move
The spin move is an excellent move to get around a defender in the open court. But be careful of a defender stealing the ball from behind, on your "blind side" as you make the spin. When making the spin, reverse pivot (spin) on your front foot, and pull the ball hard and quickly around your body. Don't let your hand get under the ball (a "carrying" violation). Then continue the dribble with the opposite hand. See video clip.

Back-up Dribble and Crossover

The back-up dribble is useful in retreating from a defender or a trap. Dribble backwards and then do a quick crossover dribble (or a through the legs dribble or around the back dribble) to get free. See video clip. Have your players practice each of these dribbles at each practice for 5-10 minutes. Have them line-up along the sideline, and dribble from sideline to sideline right-handed, and then back left-handed. Do each of the moves down and back twice before moving onto the next move. See Sideline Dribbling Drills, Dribbling Moves Drill. Players can also work on these drills at home individually. Set up cones or folding chairs (see Tight Chairs Dribbling Drills), pretending the cone (or chair) is the defender. Make your move quickly right in front of the defender. Once you get past the cone (or chair) turn around and attack it from the opposite direction with your other hand. Related pages: Stationary Dribbling Drills, Tight Chairs Dribbling Drills, Sideline Dribbling Drills, Dribbling Moves Drill.

Basketball Dribbling Drills - Stationary Drills

From the Coachs Clipboard Basketball Playbook, @ http://www.coachesclipboard.net Youth teams should do these stationary drills at the start of each practice, all season long. We usually precede these drills with our ball-handling drills. Do each of these drills for 30-60 seconds and move on so you can get through them rather quickly. Daily repetition will make the difference. Players can do these drills at home too, and in the off-season.

At practice, I have one of our better dribblers lead the drill at center court. The team spreads out in a circle around the leader who performs the various dribbling drills, while the other players follow his/her lead. See the video clips of all these drills.

Up and Downs
Start by dribbling the ball in front of you so that the ball reaches your waist high. Gradually, bounce the ball harder and harder until you are dribbling the ball as high as you can without jumping. Then gradually dribble the ball lower and lower until you are on one knee, finishing as close to the floor as possible. Pound the ball quickly to keep it going. Then do it with the other hand. See ups and down dribbling video clip.

Kills
Dribble the ball waist high, then suddenly "kill" it by dribbling it as low as you can, hold this for a few seconds, then bring it back up to waist high. Do this several times with each hand. See "kills" dribbling video clip.

Circle Dribbles
This drill is similar to "Circles" (see Ball Handling) except now the ball is dribbled. Dribble around your left leg then your right. Next, using both hands, dribble around both legs which should be together. Next, kneel down on one knee and dribble around your body and under your leg. After that, switch knees and continue. Then, while on your knees, dribble around your body, using both hands. See "around each leg" dribbling video clip.

Figure Eight
This drill is similar to the ball-handling figure eights drill except now the ball is dribbled through your legs in a figure-of-eight motion. Use both hands and be sure to look up while doing this drill. See figure-8 dribbling video clip.

Back and Forth Under the Legs

Get crouched over with your right knee and leg forward. V-dribble the ball behind the extended leg. Repeat behind the other leg. See v-dribble under legs dribbling video clip.

Crossover Dribbles
Dribble with your right hand. Bounce the ball once on the right side, then cross the ball over in front of you by bouncing it to the left. The left hand now bounces it on the left

once, and then crossover back to the right, where the right takes over again. Repeat this procedure. See cross-over dribbling video clip.

V-Dribble in Front
Start with the right hand and dribble once on the right side. Then dribble the ball in front you, as if you were going to cross over to the left side. Instead of getting it with your left hand, roll your right hand over the top of the ball, and bring it back to the right. Keep dribbling like this: right then cross over V-dribble. Repeat with the left hand. See front vdribble dribbling video clip.

Side V-Dribble
Now do the v-dribble on the side. Do both left and right hands. See side v-dribble dribbling video clip. For more difficult drills, try the spider dribbling drill, windmill dribbling drill, butterfly dribbling drill, shuffle dribbling drill. Also try some of the 2-ball drills. There are demonstrations of all these drills in the video clips library. See the one and two-ball dribbling drills, and ball-handling drills. See Dribbling for details of the control dribble, speed dribble, crossover dribble, in and out dribble, hesitation dribble, behind the back dribble, and through the legs dribble, spin move, and back-up dribble.

Basketball Drills - Sideline Dribbling Drills

From the Coachs Clipboard Basketball Playbook, @ http://www.coachesclipboard.net If done every practice for 10-15 minutes, these drills can really make a difference in your team's ball-handling and dribbling skills by the end of the season. These skills are the foundation for many of the offensive moves that the player makes with the ball.

Sideline Moves Drill

(See Diagram A) Players pair up along the sideline, and spread out. The first player in each pair dribbles from sideline to sideline right-handed, and then back left-handed. The coach will call out which move he/she wants them to execute at the half way point going across (right-handed), and then again coming back (left-handed). The ball is then passed

to the partner, who goes next. Have each player do each of the moves down and back twice before moving onto the next move. Below are the moves you should work on. You may vary these from day to day. But have them try even the difficult moves... challenge them... even if the ball does end up rolling all over the place! 1. control dribble with change to speed dribble 2. speed dribble with change to control dribble 3. crossover dribble 4. in and out move (fake crossover) 5. hesitation, rocker step move 6. pull back and crossover move 7. step out (sideways) and crossover move 8. through the legs 9. behind the back 10. spin move See: Dribbling and the video clips of these dribble moves.

Stutter Drill
(See Diagram B) Use the same sideline setup as above with partners, or run your entire team, sideline to sideline with this drill. The players again dribble across righthanded. When reaching about 1/3 across, blow the whistle and they stationary "stutter" dribble with legs pistoning up and down and pounding the dribble hard and low, the player bent over forward at the waist with knees bent. After five seconds whistle again, and they resume dribbling across. When they reach 2/3 across, whistle again and they stationary "stutter" dribble again. Whistle again and they finish across. They pivot and come back, now with the left hand, doing their stutter dribbles at the 1/3 and 2/3 marks again. After doing this drill a few times, you won't have to blow the whistle... the kids will know where to stop and stutter, and know to stutter for a 5-count before going again.

will know where to stop and stutter, and know to stutter for a 5-count before going again.

Basketball Drills - Dribble-Tag Drills

From the Coachs Clipboard Basketball Playbook, @ http://www.coachesclipboard.net This drill will improve dribbling and ball-handling and the kids seem to like it. It is similar to the kid's game "tag." Set-up: Every player on the team has a ball, and is restricted to a half court area. All the players must dribble the entire time. The Drill: Start the game with one player as "it". While maintaining the dribble, each player must try to tag another player, who is then "it". Players try to avoid getting tagged and becoming "it". They must stay within the half court area and must continue dribbling. If a

player leaves the area, or double-dribbles, stops dribbling, or gets tagged, then he/she is "it". This drill will help develop ball handling, and to avoid getting tagged, players must keep their heads up. If you have a large group with some good ball handlers, and some not so good, you can put the better dribblers on one end, and the other group on the other end, so the same kids don't get picked on all the time. You can vary this drill by making them use the opposite (weak) hand only. Heres another variation: Each player has a ball and is confined to within the 3-point arc. The same rules as above apply in that each player must continue dribbling, and must not double-dribble, stop dribbling or leave the playing area. This is an elimination game where the players dribble around and try to flick the other players ball away. Once you lose your ball, or stop your dribble, double-dribble, or leave the area, you are "out", while the others keep dribbling. Eventually you will get down to a smaller number of players. Then change the playing area and make them stay inside the lane or "paint" area, until you have one remaining--the winner! Also see: Dribbling Basic Dribbling Drills Ball Handling

Basketball Drills - Basic Half-Court Passing Drills

From the Coachs Clipboard Basketball Playbook, @ http://www.coachesclipboard.net You must do passing drills and never assume your players are good passers. Poor passing will destroy an offense faster than anything. Crisp accurate passing and receiving make it all work. Many turnovers are related to bad passing or receiving. All players must become good at the chest pass, bounce pass and overhead pass.

Passing Drill #1 - One-Ball Rapid Fire Passing Drill

Have your players line up facing a solid wall, about two feet from the wall (or a toss-back rebounding device). Each player begins rapid fire passing against the wall, moving back

about two feet with each pass until 10 feet away (5th pass). Then he/she starts moving closer to wall by two feet with each pass, until 10 passes are completed. Repeat this 10pass cycle until each player has made a total 20 passes. Pointers: Make sure good passing technique is used, and passers step-into the pass.

Passing Drill #2 - Two-Ball Rapid Fire Passing Drill

Use groups of four or five players. There is one passer about 6 feet away from and facing a line of receivers (the rest of the group). The passer has a ball and so does one of the receivers. On "Go", the passer passes quickly to any receiver, and the receiver who already has a ball passes simultaneously back to the passer. The passes keep going back and forth to any receiver who does not have the ball. Do as many chest passes as you can in 60 seconds and then rotate. Pointers: Use good passing technique while keeping your eyes focused forward and not directly at the receiver. Have your hands up and ready to receive the pass. Use your peripheral vision to see the incoming pass.

Passing Drill #3, Simple Partner Passing and Catching Drill

Have each player get a partner, and each pair has a ball, so they can "play catch" with each other. Have the partners separate about 12 - 15 feet (comfortable passing distance), and face each other. Have the players practice each of the three basic passes, starting with the chest pass. Demonstrate the proper techniques with "stepping into" the pass with one foot forward. Snap the pass, with the thumbs going through the ball and extending toward the receiver. Make sure the players pass the ball crisply, and not "lob" their passes. Hit the receiver in the chest. The receiver should show a target with his/her hands extended toward the passer. Feet should be squared and shoulder-width apart. After catching the ball, receivers should get into triple-threat position before making the next pass. Next, work on bounce passes. Again, passers should start from triple-threat position. The ball should hit the ground about three-quarters from the receiver and bounce right to his chest. Make sure passers are passing the ball with their hands waist to chest high - not over the head (we do not believe in an overhead bounce pass). Next, work on the two-handed overhead pass or outlet pass. Have the partners move a little farther apart, so that you are working on a longer pass. Players should snap their

passes with some arc, but be sure that they are not lobbing their passes too high. The arc should be just enough to get over the extended hands of a defender, but not so high that the pass "floats". This pass can be thrown hard, and is effective as the outlet pass after a rebound, to start the fast break. It is also good for throwing over zone defenses ("skip passes"). To simulate the outlet pass, after receiving the ball, have the passer turn his back to the receiver, then simulate pulling the ball in, pivot, and make the overhead pass.

Passing Drill #4 - "Monkey in the Middle"

Form groups of three. Each group has a ball. Line up the passers about 15 feet apart (comfortable passing distance). The third man in each group is the "monkey in the middle" and tries to steal or deflect the ball, while the two outside players try to pass to each other. No dribbling is allowed, except for a one-bounce sideways dribble to open a passing lane. No easy lob passes over the defender are permitted. Passers should be in triple-threat position and work on pivoting and ball fakes to clear the passing lane. For example, the passer can fake an overhead pass to get the defender to raise his hands, then make a bounce pass, or "curl" bounce-pass. Rotation:There's a couple ways of doing this. One easy way is to simply change the middle man every minute, when you blow the whistle. Each person takes a turn in the middle. Or, whenever the defender deflects the ball, the passer now becomes the "monkey in the middle". If no deflections in 30 seconds, switch defenders. Two Variations: (1) Defender plays up tight on the passer (Diagram A). After the pass is made, the defender sprints to the receiver and again tries to deflect the pass. The new passer may not pass until the defender is in position and the defender says "go". (2) Defender plays tight on the receiver, trying to deny the pass. The group is confined to a given area on the floor. The receiver must try to get open by Vcutting, back-

to a given area on the floor. The receiver must try to get open by Vcutting, backcutting, making contact with the defender and "bouncing off", etc.

Passing Drill #5 - Triangle Passing Drill

Try this "triangle" passing drill for some variety. This drill can be done well by younger players who are not yet adept at full-court drills, such as the weave drill. You can use both baskets and divide the squad into two groups. At each basket, create three passing lines about 12 to 15 feet apart. One line is at the top of the key, another in the right short corner area, and a third in the left short corner area. As an option, you can use cones or marks on the floor, so that the lines don't "creep" inward. To run the drill, start with the ball at the top of key (point) and either pass to right or left (can go either direction). The players start behind the cones, step out to receive the pass and pass to the next station in same direction. After the players make their pass, they sprint to the next line in the same direction as the ball, following their pass - no walking. After a few sequences, change direction and also alternate between chest passes, bounce passes, and overhead passing.

and also alternate between chest passes, bounce passes, and overhead passing. This drill goes quickly and keeps them moving, providing a lot of touches in a short amount of time. Pointers: Make sure correct passing techniques are used, that the players "step out" to meet the pass, and that the players receive the ball and place it in triple threat position.

Passing Drill #6 - Drive and Dish Passing Drill

Use three guards and three post players. You can divide your 12-man squad into two groups and use both ends of the court. O1 is at the point. Place two defenders just above the elbows (like against a 2-3 zone). Put a defensive post in the middle of the lane, and two offensive post players half way up the lane on each side. Your point guard (O1), will dribble penetrate and split the two defenders and pass to either post player. The X3 defender will try to deny this pass. The receiving post player can either shoot, make a power move to the hoop, or dish off to the opposite

player can either shoot, make a power move to the hoop, or dish off to the opposite post, who finishes the lay-up.

Passing Drill #7 - 2Man Passing, Find the Receiver

Often I see kids make a bad pass because they actually threw the ball before first locating their receiver (especially against a full-court press). Players must learn to look before they pass! With this drill, the passer must first find the receiver before making the pass. Use both baskets. Have a line under each basket. The first player in line (player #1) speed dribbles out to the three-point line, makes a jump stop and a reverse pivot. Meanwhile, the next player in line (player #2) sprints out to either corner and yells "ball, ball,

pivot. Meanwhile, the next player in line (player #2) sprints out to either corner and yells "ball, ball, ball" (mix it up so the passer has to look to find the receiver). The passer makes the crisp chest pass to #2, cuts to the hoop, receives the pass back from #2, and finishes the lay-up. #2 rebounds, and now becomes player #1 and dribbles out and repeats the drill.

Basketball Drills - Fast-Break, Full-Court Passing Drills -- 2-on-0, 2-on-1, 2-on-2

From the Coachs Clipboard Basketball Playbook, @ http://www.coachesclipboard.net These full-court, fast-break drills emphasize passing and receiving on the move and finishing the break with a lay-up, or finishing in a 2-on-1 or 2-on-2 situation. We run through all the sets of drills below, starting with the 2-on-0 drills, and then progressing into the 2-on-1 and finally the 2-on-2 drills. We run all these drills in about 10 minutes, and we do them almost every practice.

2-on-0 Passing Drills

See the diagram on the left below. Here players pair up and run (not shuffle sideways) up the floor passing back and forth to each other. The last pass results in a lay-up. The pair gets off the court and line up on the far baseline now, getting ready to come back down the court after all the other pairs have finished. After all pairs have moved up the floor, we then start back down the court to complete the trip both ways. We run several trips, starting with sharp two-handed chest passes up and back. Then we do bounce passes up and back. Next, we do two-handed overhead passes and finally around-the-back passes up and back. Pointers: (1) Make sure your players are talking and the passer is yelling the receiver's name, while the receiver is yelling "ball". (2) The last pass that sets up the lay-up is always a bounce pass. (3) No dribbling is allowed, except if needed to finish the lay-up. (4) Make sure everyone is running hard, not jogging.

2-on-1 Drill
See the middle diagram below. Now we add a defender who runs ahead of the two passers and tries to defend in a 2-on-1 situation. The defender usually just moves up the floor and tries to defend at the end. However, the defender may try to jump between the passers anywhere on the floor to steal the pass. If the ball is stolen or there is a turnover or a missed pass, the three players just move into line at the far end of the floor. When the last three-some has finished, we come back down the court to complete the trip. Pointers: (also apply to the 2-on-2 drill below) (1) Make sure the offensive players are talking as above. (2) Keep dribbling to a minimum... only when necessary to beat the defense. (3) When finishing the 2-on-1 break, we teach the player who has the ball at about the level of the free-throw line to make a power dribble, or "take", to the hoop, looking for either the lay-up or the foul. If the defender comes up high on him/her, then he/she passes off to the teammate cutting to the hoop.

2-on-2 Drill
Finally, we finish by adding a second defender who must trail the break and may not leave the end-line until the offense has cleared the top of the key or 3-point arc. The first defender sprints up the floor and tries to stop, or delay, the 2-on-1 break, while the second defender is sprinting up the floor to provide defensive help at the end. The offense must move quickly and make quick decisions, otherwise they lose their 2-on-1 advantage. Both offensive and defensive players should be "talking", communicating.

Basketball Drills - Full-Court Weave Passing Drills

From the Coachs Clipboard Basketball Playbook, @ http://www.coachesclipboard.net

Passing Drill #1 - 3-Man Full-Court Weave

This old drill is still one of the best for passing and catching on the move and conditioning. Players start at one end of the court in three lines, one in the middle and one near each sideline.

The middle player O1 starts the weave by passing to one of the sideline players. O1 then cuts wide around and behind player (O2). O2 now passes to the opposite sideline player (O3) and cuts around and behind O3. O3 now passes to the original middle person (O1) and cuts around O1. And so it goes (see diagram). No dribbling is allowed except for one dribble to finish the lay-up. The ball should never touch the floor except that the last pass to the shooter is always a bounce-pass. We will first run the drill with chest passes, and then again with bounce

We will first run the drill with chest passes, and then again with bounce passes. Receivers should move toward the ball, and show a target for the passer. Players should stay wide and always cut around and behind the player they just passed to. Passers must call out the receiver's name before passing and the number of the pass in the sequence (e.g. "Ross 1", "John 2", "Bill 3"), and receivers should yell "ball". With our high school teams, we will initially run the drill with five passes being made before completing the lay-up. Finally, we will run the drill with

made before completing the lay-up. Finally, we will run the drill with each team using only three passes to complete the drill... now they really have to sprint. We expect players to run the drill at full-speed at all times. If not, stop the drill and have them just run some fullcourt sprints. Most players would rather run the drill than sprints. The next three-some can start once the previous group is beyond half-court. Start a new line at the far end, and when all groups have come to that end-line, go back the other way. If we have an odd number, the one or two players left behind will yell "one (or two) back!" and a player(s) will sprint back and go again with that three-some.

Passing Drill #2 - 3-Man Full-Court Weave with 3-Point Shot Option

Here's another option you can use when running the 3-man weave above. You can also get two 3-point shots in transition each trip. Have managers (or assistants, or players waiting in line) on each end of the court. Players run the 3-person weave full-court just as above. The only difference is that the trailer (last person down the court on the weave) and the passer fan out to the wing, 3-point arc area on opposite sides. Both players

receive a pass from the assistants (or players on the endline) and shoot the 3-pointer. They get their own rebound and give the ball back to the assistants (or players on the endline). You can make a team competition out of it by keeping track of the total team score (maximum score of 5 each trip - count 1 for the lay-up and 2 for each of the "3's"). Run the drill for 2 minutes and see what their total team score is... you can set a number that they have to achieve, or else it's push-ups or running for everyone if they don't make the goal.

Passing Drill #3 - 5-Man Full-Court Weave and Transition Drill

Contributed by: Coach Thomas Koeller, Southwestern High School, Hazel Green, WI Here is a variation of the three man weave. In the 5-man weave drill, five players are used and run the traditional weave up the floor. It becomes a transition drill on the way back. Coming back up the floor, it is a full-court 3-on-2 situation. The two defenders are: (1) the player who shot the lay-up, and (2) the person who made the assist pass for the lay-up.

made the assist pass for the lay-up. These two players play defense while the other three attempt to push the ball up the floor and score.

Basketball Defense - Basic Man-to-Man Defense

From the Coachs Clipboard Basketball Playbook, @ http://www.coachesclipboard.net Good offense wins games... great defense wins championships. Believe it! When your offense is struggling, good defense can keep you in the game until your shots start falling. How are you going to catch up the second half if you are down 12 at the half? ... by playing great defense. Simply scoring more baskets won't do it if you allow the other team to score also. You must keep the opponent from scoring by playing good defense and rebounding, to allow your offense a chance to get back into the game. Everyone on the team has to play good defense, because one weak link will cause the entire defense to fail, and a good offense will eventually find out who the weak defensive player is. Playing good defense involves hustle, inspiration and perspiration (sweat!). You gotta want to play good defense. Defensive skills are fairly easy to learn, unlike some offensive skills, and everyone can learn to become a good defender. If you are a poor, non-aggressive defender, you will hurt your team. These are the important elements in playing good defense:

Stance and Focus

Your weight should be on the balls of your feet (not your heels), and your feet should be about shoulder width apart. Keep your knees bent and your back straight. Keep your head up, eyes forward, arms out with your palms up and elbows bent a little. Watch the offensive players belly-button, especially if he/she is quick and hard to stay with. The offensive player can fake you with a head fake, eye fake, arm or shoulder fake, or a jabstep, but the belly-button will always go only in the direction that he/she is going.

Slides

When guarding your opponent, slide your feet sideways, using quick, short steps, and don't get your feet crossed. Don't hop. If you get beat in the open floor, don't just yell for help... turn and sprint after your opponent. Once you get in front of your man again, get back into your defensive stance. See video clip.

Close-out on the ball receiver

Defenders must learn to "close-out" on the player with the ball. Once the offensive player receives the pass, the defender should rush toward the ball-handler in a low stance. The last several steps should be quick, choppy steps to stop your momentum (so the defender doesn't dribble around you). Your baseline line foot should be back in order to force the ball-handler toward the baseline. As you approach the ball-handler, snap your shoulders and head back to help slow yourself down. See video clip.

On the Ball
Over-guard toward the offensive player's strong side. If your man is right-handed, overguard that side and make him/her go left. If your opponent is on the right wing, drop your left foot back a little toward the baseline and overplay a little toward the offensive players right side, as this will give you time to react to a move to his/her right. Try to force offensive player to the baseline. Once at the baseline, set the trap, and do not allow any further penetration along the baseline. Keep the palm of your lead hand facing up. Try to get at the ball from below, not by slapping down it, which results in a foul. Your other hand should be in the passing lane. Slide with your opponent, and try to get him/her to stop the dribble, and then close in and apply pressure.

to stop the dribble, and then close in and apply pressure. Don't "reach-in". This causes you to lose your balance and defensive stance, and you become easy for the offensive player to get around. Reaching in also results in fouls and free throws for the opponent. Don't get into the bad habit of reaching-in and taking a swipe at the ball as the offensive player dribbles around you. Instead move your feet, hustle, stay with your man, and prevent him/her from getting to the basket by maintaining

him/her from getting to the basket by maintaining good onball defensive stance. If you get beat, sprint after the offensive player and beat him/her to a spot where you can once again resume your defensive stance.

Denial
Clog the passing lane and prevent the player you are guarding from getting the ball, that is, "deny" him/her the ball. When guarding an offensive player who is one pass away from the ball, you should be in denial. Denying your man the ball, keeps him/her

Denying your man the ball, keeps him/her from scoring. Play the passing lane and stay between the player you're guarding and the ball. Place your foot and hand nearest the ball slightly forward, and turn the palm of your hand toward the ball, so that you can reject any incoming passes. Be in a position to see both your player and the ball. If the ballhandler stops the dribble, you have a "dead ball situation" and everyone should in close on their man, in "full-denial".

In "full-denial", the defensive players should be "on the line". To explain this concept, imagine a line extending from the ball to the person you are guarding. In fulldenial, you should position yourself so that you are on this line, body toward your man, but with head and eyes turned toward the ball, and your ball-side hand up in the passing lane. If your man is a long distance, or two passes away from the ballhandler, you can play a little "up the line", that is a little ways from the imaginary line towards the hoop. The distance, or spacing, up the line depends upon the speed and quickness of the defender and the distance his/her man is from the ball. On a long pass, the defender should still be able to move toward the line and intercept the pass. If instead the defender initially played "on the line", his/her man could make a back-cut and get open. Playing a little "up the line" prevents the back-cut, and still allows for the interception.

Help and Recover.

Diagrams E and F below teach how to give help and recover on the perimeter. Rather than play a "full-denial", defenders one pass away play a little up the line and step or two toward the ball in order to help stop dribble penetration. Here O1 tries to dribblepenetrate. The X2 defender gives help and O1 is prevented from penetrating, and has to dish back out to O2 (Diagram F). The X2 defender then has to rotate quickly out to on-

ball defense on O2, and the X1 and X4 defenders are now in deny, a little up the line and a step or two toward the ball, while the X3 defender moves into help-side (Diagram F).

Helpside
When your opponent is two or more passes from the ball, you should be in "help-side" position. This will allow you to be in position to help your teammates against the ball penetrating the paint. This involves dropping off your man some (but without losing sight of him/her), and sagging toward the ball-side. In the diagrams below, see the imaginary red "help-side line" which goes through the middle of the lane. Many coaches teach that if the ball is above the free-throw line, the help-side defender should have one foot in the lane (Diagram A). If the ball is below the free-throw line, one foot should be touching or staggering the help-side line. Stay between the ball and your man. Be ready to help defend against another player driving or cutting to the hoop, and "help" your teammate who may have gotten beat. Once the ball comes back to within one pass from your player, you get back into deny position. If the ball is skip-passed to your player, you quickly close-out and play "on-ball". See diagrams below.

Remember, good defense is "team defense". Man to man defense is a team defense just as much as zone defenses. Here is a good quote: "The best man defense looks like a zone and the best zone defense looks like a man.

Defending the Low Post

There are three positions the defender can assume when defending the low post player.

Playing behind the offensive post player.

Here the defender plays directly behind the offensive player. This may be advantageous if your post defender is much taller than the offensive player, and has a good chance of altering or blocking the post player's shot. But do not let the offensive player back you down under the basket. Use your legs (use a strong stance with knees bent) and your lower body strength to keep the offensive player out... but do not put your hands on the post player's back as you may get called for a pushing foul.

Full-fronting the low post player.

Here the defender moves directly in front of the offensive post player, between him/her and the ball, and denies the pass. The wing defender should put pressure on the ball in order to make the pass to the low post, or the lob pass, more difficult. Fronting may backfire if the offensive player is taller and can easily seal for inside position and get the high lob pass. Another disadvantage is the defender is out of position for the rebound, and the post player may be able to score just by sealing for inside position and receiving the inside pass, or by getting the rebound and put-back.

Three-quarter (or one-half) front the low post player.

This is probably the best method. Instead of directly fronting the low post player, the defender "straddles" him/her with one foot in front and one in back, standing sideways to the offensive player with one hand in the passing lane. If the ball is below the free-throw line extended (in the corner-wing area), the defender should play on the baseline side of the post player, making contact with the post player's inside (baseline) shoulder, and with the left arm and hand out in the passing lane. If the ball is passed out on top (above the free-throw line extended), the defender should slide chest to chest with the post player and move to the post player's high-side (or lane-side) shoulder, again with a hand up at all times in the passing lane.

Trapping (setting the double-team)

In trapping, one defender should first stop the dribbler, often along the sideline or baseline, or in one of the "trapping zones" (see below). Trapping zones are those areas where the offensive player definitely does not want to get caught losing his dribble. It's like getting caught in a corner. Once the ball is stopped, the second defender sprints over and double-teams the ball carrier. They obscure the ball-handler's view, and get into the passing lane. Their knees are adjacent to each other to prevent the ball-handler from "splitting" the trap. The position of their hands should be at the same height as the ball. If the offensive player holds the ball high to "throw over the top", the hands should be high. If the ball is low,

the hands should be low to prevent the bounce pass. Do not reach in! "Reaching-in" changes a good situation into a bad one (now the player goes to the free throw line). Instead, the trapping players should deny the player from getting the pass off and get the 5-second call, or force her to make a bad pass, which is intercepted by one of your teammates. The yellow zones catch the player in the corner. The red zones are excellent trapping zones, since the offensive player cannot retreat across the 10 second line. The blue zones are good trapping zones because the offense has to worry about the 10-second count. For defending against screens and other more detailed points, see "Teaching Man-to-Man Pressure Defense"

Pressure Defense"

Basketball Drills - Defense 1-on-1 Drills

From the Coachs Clipboard Basketball Playbook, @ http://www.coachesclipboard.net

1-on-1 Drill
Use both ends of the court and make four lines, one under each basket with the players facing the free throw line, and one at each free throw line with players facing the basket. The defensive players are under the basket; the offensive players are at the free throw line. The first player in the defensive line passes the ball to the offensive player at the free throw line, and closes-out aggressively. The offensive player tries to score, by shooting or driving to the hoop. The defender should play aggressively and box-out after any shot. Once the offense scores or the defense stops him/her, it's done, and they pass to next defensive player in line on the baseline. The rotation is that the offensive players go to the defense line and vice-versa.

The defensive players should work on proper stance and footwork (see Basic Defense), and box-out on any shots. The defense should close-out initially with the strong foot forward and that hand up toward offensive player. Over-guard the offensive player's strong side. The other hand should be low, out to the side, palm up. Proper footwork means sliding with the offensive player (don't cross your feet), and staying between the player and the basket. Watch the belly-button, contest all shots with a hand up at the shooter. You can make a game of it and have your players or managers keep score. Losers run.

Full-Court "Cut and Pressure" Drill

This is a good full-court conditioning drill, while working on defensive footwork. See the diagram. Start with a line at one end of the floor. The first player in line becomes the defender. The next person in line attempts to dribble the entire length of the floor in a straight line, without having to cross-over or change direction. The defender, by using correct footwork, must try to "turn" the defender as many times as he can... i.e. force him to change direction or cross-over dribble. Once they reach the opposite end, the pair moves over to the opposite side of the floor and the original defender now becomes the dribbler and vice-versa for the trip back up the floor. Meanwhile, the next twosome can start up the opposite side of the floor. Players must stay on their half of the floor (to avoid collisions).

Basketball Drill - Defense Shell Drill

From the Coachs Clipboard Basketball Playbook, @ http://www.coachesclipboard.net This drill focuses on the basic concepts of "on-ball", "deny", and "help-side" (see Basic Defense). Set-up: Use a half court setup with a total of eight players. Four offensive players are positioned around the three point arc. Start with two wings and two players in the corners. Match-up four defensive players with each of the offensive players. You could also use five on each team with a point guard, two wings and two corners. Additional players can sub in and out at your discretion. The Drill: The offensive players are stationary, no cuts or dribbling. This is a defensive drill and the offensive players simply pass the ball sharply around the arc. Make sure they make good passes (use this as a passing drill also), make sure they receive the ball in "triple threat"

position, and have them make some skip passes too. The defensive players are not to steal or intercept the ball, since this is drill designed to emphasize proper positioning on the floor. The defensive players must work on proper relationships in positioning with the offensive player they are guarding.

On-Ball Defense
If the defender's man has the ball, he/she should be applying "on-ball" pressure, and force the offensive player toward the sideline or baseline.

Deny Defense
If your man is one pass away, you should be in "deny", but not a complete dead-ball denial as seen at the bottom of this page. You should be a little up the line and a step or two toward the ball (see Diagrams A and B). This way, you are in position to steal the pass, and yet still be able to give help to the on-ball defender if the ball-handler tries to dribble-penetrate.

Helpside Defense
If your man is two passes away, you should be in "help-side". If the ball is above the freethrow line (Diagram A), the help-side defender should have one foot in the lane. If the ball is below the free throw line (Diagram B), the help-side defenders should be straddling the "help-side line". Importantly, players must quickly rotate and sprint in and out of helpside. Sometimes players are lazy in their rotations and you must impress upon them the importance of rotating quickily. For more of an explanation, see Basic Defense. Once you feel your team has an understanding of these basic relationships, and all players have been on offense and defense, you can let them play half court all out with cutting, screens, shooting, etc. Watch the defenders carefully for proper defensive positioning. Blow your whistle when you need to make points with the players... somebody messed up, or somebody did something really well.

Full Denial
Diagrams C and D below. Now let's assume that the ball-handler has given up the dribble. He/she no longer has the option of dribble-penetration, so defenders whose man is one pass away can now be in complete deny, on the line.

Help and Recover

Diagrams E and F below teach how to give help and recover on the perimeter. O1 tries to dribble-penetrate. The X2 defender gives help and O1 is prevented from penetrating, and has to dish back out to O2 (Diagram F). The X2 defender then has to rotate quickly out to on-ball defense on O2, and the X1 and X4 defenders are now in deny, a little up the line and a step or two toward the ball, while the X3 defender moves into help-side (Diagram F).

Defending the Cutter

Diagram G teaches how to defend the cutter after the ball is passed to the corner. The X2 defender steps in front of the cutter and stays between the man and the ball throughout the cut, and then these two rotate over to the opposite corner. O3 and O1 offensive players rotate to the right. Notice how the X3 and X1 defenders give help on the cut inside. Also, see "Pass into the Low Post, Double-Team" and "Defending Baseline Dribble Penetration" and other helpful drills in Man-to-Man Breakdown Drills

Basketball Drill - Defense Z-Drill

From the Coachs Clipboard Basketball Playbook, @ http://www.coachesclipboard.net This drill works on proper defensive footwork, slides and sprints. I am frequently shouting "move your feet, don't reach in!" at my players when they are on defense, and this drill emphasizes that. Set-up: See the diagram. Place cones or balls at the specified places on the court (top of the key, on each end;and each midcourt sideline). Form a single line at the corner of the left baseline. The first player in line should turn around and face the baseline. The Drill: First Option: Defensive sliding the whole way. The first player in line starts the drill by sliding to

whole way. The first player in line starts the drill by sliding to the first cone at the top of the arc, facing the baseline, using proper stance and sliding technique (see Basic Defense). Upon reaching the cone, he/she pivots off the lead foot and slides to the next cone at half-court sideline. Then the player continues pivoting and sliding to the next cone at the top of the far end arc, and then to the baseline corner. After reaching the corner, he/she sprints along the baseline to the other corner, and zig-zags

sprints along the baseline to the other corner, and zig-zags back up the court. The second player in line starts after the preceding person reaches the first cone. Have all players do this, watching and stopping to demonstrate correct stance, footwork, and slides. Careful not to over do this drill at first, as players can become very tired doing this drill. Second Option: alternate defensive slides and sprints. Do the drill the same way, with the player sliding to the first cone. After reaching the first cone, have the player pivot and sprint (as though he/she were beaten) to the half court sideline cone, and seal the sideline off. Then resume sliding to the next cone, and then sprint again. Alternate slide and sprint every other cone. Third Option: go man-to-man defense against an offensive player. The drill is the same except now you add a ball-handler. The offensive player dribbles to each cone while the defender slides and stays in front of him/her. You can have the

offensive players start out at a slower speed at first, and eventually work up to full speed, to see if the defender can stay with him/her. If the defender gets beat, he/she must turn and sprint after the offensive player, and get back into proper sliding position. After reaching the far baseline, rotate the offensive players to defense, and vice-versa, and return up the court.

Basketball Fundamentals - Basic Defensive Tips

From the Coachs Clipboard Basketball Playbook, @ http://www.coachesclipboard.net There are two basic types of defense: "man-to-man" defense, and zone defense. I believe all good players must learn how to play good man-to-man defense. Yet there are many times that a good zone defense can really shut down a team. It often depends on what the other team's strengths and weaknesses are. So you must learn both.

Man-to-Man Defense
With this defense, each player is assigned to guarding a particular player on the other team. Each player must try hard to stop the opponent. Although it sounds individual, man-to-man is really a team defense. Every one must do his/her part. If 1 or 2 players don't play good defense, the defense will fail. Although you are assigned to guard one player, you must learn to "help" your teammates, and learn to "slide through" and "switch" the player you are guarding with a teammate, if one of you gets picked. We used to call this a "switching" man-to-man defense. You must learn what "help-side" means. Simply, when the ball is on the opposite side of the floor from you (and the person you are guarding), you can drop off your man a little into the lane and "sag" toward the middle to help cut off the passing lanes. Once the ball comes around to your side, you get back up tight on your man. When I was younger, I was taught to deny the baseline, as baseline penetration often allows an easy basket or an easy dish to another player for a lay-up. Now coaches are advised to force the offensive player to the baseline. How do you reconcile the differences in teaching? Forcing to the baseline allows you to trap the defender there and helps establish your helpside defense. When the ball is in the corner, you only have to defend one side of the court and you can put all five defenders on that side. So we force the ball-handler to the baseline, but once there, you trap, and prevent any further penetration along the baseline. If you allow the offensive player to go uncontested along the baseline, it's usually 2 points. "Move your feet!" You'll hear coaches yell this all the time...because it is one of the most important aspects of playing good defense. You must have the desire and the quickness to move your feet in order to stay with your man, to get into proper position to take a charge, to move quickly to box out for a rebound, etc. You must not just "reach-in" and take a swipe at the ball as the player dribbles by you (usually a foul)...instead you must move your feet, hustle and stay with your man, and prevent him/her from getting to the basket by getting yourself into proper position. Also, when you "reach-in", you lose your defensive stance and balance and are now easy for the offensive player to get around.

Man-to-Man Defense Tips

1. Most of the time, you should keep between your man and basket (but sometimes post players, will have to "front" a strong post-up player). 2. Guards get into a low position with your weight evenly balanced, on the balls of your feet, nearer your toes. Don't be flat-footed. Keep your weight off your heels. The key to good defense is you must move your feet and stay between the player and the hoop. Do not reach in a take a quick swipe with your hand. You will either get a foul, or the offensive player will go right around you. 3. Guards out front can play back off your man a couple steps if the offensive player is very quick, and outside his/her normal shooting range. This space will give you time to react, so that the offensive player will not get around you. If your opponent is a good outside shooter, then you must play tighter. 4. This brings us to the next point...know your opponent! Know his/her strengths and weaknesses. If he/she is a good shooter, stay close. If he/she can't dribble very well, stay up close and keep the pressure on. If he/she is quick and a good dribbler then stay back a couple steps. If he/she is right-handed and always goes to the right, over-guard the right side and force him/her to the left. 5. Watch the offensive players eyes when passing... this will often tell you where the pass is going. 6. Watch the offensive players belly-button, especially if he/she is quick and hard to stay with. The offensive player can fake you with a head fake, eye fake, arm or shoulder fake, or a jab-step, but the belly-button will always go only in the direction that he/she is going. 7. When the shot goes up, yell "shot!" and all defenders should box-out their men, and go for the rebound, and get the fast-break going. 8. Hustle! Hustle! Hustle! You gotta love playing tough, hard defense. Your good defense will win many games for you, especially those games when your offense is "off". It's not so bad if your shots aren't falling, if the other team can't score either. Your defense will keep you in the game until your offense finally gets going. When you are behind, the best way to catch up is by playing great defense and getting those rebounds. Who said, "Good offense wins games, but good defense wins championships"? Believe it. Much of good defense is inspiration and perspiration.

Basketball Rebounding
From the Coachs Clipboard Basketball Playbook, @ http://www.coachesclipboard.net Rebounding is one of the most important aspects of winning basketball games. Offensive rebounding gives your team extra chances, and free throw opportunities, and frustrates the defense. Defensive rebounding is a key part of good defense in general, limiting the offense to just one shot. A good thought is "one shot and out". Defensive rebounding combined with a quick outlet pass can be an effective offensive weapon, getting the transition game and fast break going, for a lay-up at the other end. All good rebounders "have an attitude" that every rebound is theirs and are very aggressive on the boards. Youve got to want it! Coaches love good rebounders and will reward them with more playing time. You may not be the best shooter or ball handler, but if you are a strong rebounder and defender, you will get to play. Good rebounders are important "role players".

Defensive Rebounding
The first important aspect of rebounding is getting inside position and "boxing out". The player who gets the inside position usually gets the rebound. The opponent may "reach over" and commit a foul. These "over the back" fouls can be very costly late in a game when teams are in the bonus free throw situation. Another key is always knowing where the ball is, so as soon as you see the shot being taken you get the inside position, and box out. It helps if teammates communicate and yell "shot!" when the shot goes up. There are three parts to a defensive rebound.

Box Out Attack the ball, go get it! The outlet pass

"Box Out!"
All players must learn this skill, as much as any other skill in the game. Even the perimeter players (guards) must box out. Oftentimes, the missed three-point shot will result in a long rebound that our guards should get if they box-out properly. Also, we dont want the opponents guards slipping inside for the inside rebound and put-back. When you box out, you must first make contact with the player you are guarding. Locate your man, get in front of him/her, pivot facing the basket, bend over, get wide with your feet and arms out, and put your backside into the offensive player, sealing him/her away from the hoop. Be aggressive, and don't let the offensive player push you under the basket. If you get too far under the basket, a taller opponent with long arms can simply outreach you for the ball. Keep your man away from the hoop. Keep your eye on the ball flight, and go get it!

Keep your eye on the ball flight, and go get it!

Attack The Ball!

After you have sealed (boxed-out) the opponent, then go aggressively after the ball. Attack the ball, jumping high with both arms extended, grab it strongly with both hands, and "rip it down". Expect some physical contact. Youve got to be strong and tough inside. Once you have the ball, protect it by pivoting away from the opponents, and "chin" it, by bringing the ball under your chin with elbows out. But you must not throw an elbow... a sure foul, often flagrant.

The Outlet Pass

Once you have the ball, think "fast break". Get a quick accurate outlet pass to a teammate to get the transition game going. If you hold onto the ball too long, the opponents may tie you up, and depending on the possession arrow, all your hard work is for nothing. So immediately pivot away from the defenders toward the sideline and find a teammate to pass to. Pivot on your outside foot. Wheel around and make a strong, sharp two-handed overhead outlet pass to your teammate on the wing. Only dribble if you have to, if you are in trouble and need to create some spacing to get the pass off. Pass as soon as you can safely hit your teammate. But don't make a bad forced pass, and lose possession. I hate it when one of my players makes a good box-out, gets the rebound, but then simply throws the ball away with a bad pass all the good, hard work ruined by a bad pass. And those kind of turnovers can kill you, as the opponent may get a quick shot or lay-up after the steal. See video clip.

Team Rebounding Concepts

The rebounding triangle

With each shot, try to establish a triangle of players boxing out around the basket. Have one player of each side of the hoop and one in front, so that you have a triangle of players boxing out around the hoop. Don't get too far under the basket, where a taller player can simply reach over your head for the rebound...box them away from the basket.

Weakside rebounding
Another tip realize that about 70% of missed shots from the corner or wing go long to the opposite side of the hoop. So make sure you have a weakside rebounder when the corner-wing shot goes up.

Long rebounds
Especially against teams that like to shoot the three-pointer (which when missed often results in a "long rebound"), whenever possible try to have two perimeter defenders (rebounders) get to the wing-elbow areas on each side to help pick off those long rebounds that go beyond the guys boxing out down low.

Rebounding missed free-throws

Not boxing out the offensive rebounders along the free-throw lane loses games... see "Boxing Out on a Free-Throw" below.

Offensive Rebounding
Offensive rebounding should be a very important part of your team offense in general. Nothing frustrates the opponent more, than their playing good aggressive defense, and you get one, two, or three offensive rebounds for more shots at the hoop, until you finally score. The keys are you've got to be aggressive and want the offensive rebound, and you must be quick on your feet and try to get inside position on the defender. This is a good way to pick up extra easy baskets. Some people call 'em "trash" baskets... I call 'em hardworking, smart, demoralizing baskets... "back breakers". Getting Position: The defender should already be between you and the hoop and trying to box you out. Make a fake one way, and quickly move your feet and slip around him/her on the other side. Once you are inside, now you box out. Another technique is to "swim" over the defender. If the defender does not have his/her arms up, put your forearm on top of his/hers, pinning it down (without grabbing or holding it), and then move your feet and step around and over the opponent's foot on that side and get inside rebounding position. Always know where the ball is and just assume that every shot will be missed. If the shot is coming from the corner, remember that 70% of misses will go long on the opposite side, so be ready on the weakside. Once you get the ball, be strong and power it right back up to the hoop, usually off the glass. There is a good chance you will get fouled, and a good chance for an "old fashioned" three pointer... a put back with a free throw. Expect contact, be strong, and try to finish the shot. Work hard the entire game and make your opponent work. You can actually wear the opponent down by the end of the game. When your team is behind, the two key elements in catching up and winning are playing great defense and rebounding. If you can stop the opponent from scoring, you give your offense a chance to catch up. Many championship games are decided by this tough inside play... not the outside jumpers. It's not always pretty under the hoop, but all good coaches know how important this aspect of the game really is. You will hear TV commentators talk about "points in the paint" as a key in many games. Most of them are retired, very successful coaches, and they know by experience how important.

Boxing Out on a Free-Throw

It's very important to secure the rebound after a missed free-throw, to avoid those extra chances for the opponent, and late in the game when you are behind and time is a factor, you can't let the opponent control the ball and the clock. The defensive rebounders in the lowest space along the lane must block-out the adjacent opponent in the middle space. The defender should get close to the offensive player. For example, if you are on the right side of the lane, have your top (left) foot as near as possible to the offensive player. Then when the ball hits the rim, immediately slide that foot over into the lane in front of the opponent. The stance should not be too wide, but wide enough for a strong base, so that the opponent cannot push you under the basket. If you are too wide, it will be more difficult to slide that leg over. Turn your body with the bottom (right) foot back off the lane line a little (never have both feet touching or parallel to the lane line). Most of your weight should be on the bottom (right) foot. Keep your arms up with your elbows shoulder height. Not only does this get you ready to rebound, but if you let your arms down, a savvy offensive player may put his arm on top of yours, pinning it down (and this is often not caught by the officials). Use your hands and arms also to feel which way the offensive player is going and block him/her out! The rebounders in the top two lane positions must communicate. One should make contact with and box-out the shooter. The other should go aggressively to the middle of the lane to get a longer rebound in the middle. These rebounders should position themselves in their space along the lane as close to the basket (and the middle offensive player) as possible. We also teach our players to "pinch" a strong offensive rebounder... the bottom rebounder steps in front from below, while our top rebounder on that same side steps in and "pinches" from the top. Then our opposite top rebounder boxes out the shooter. Players should communicate this when getting ready along the free-throw lane. Related pages: 1-on-1 Rebounding Drill, 2-on-2 Rebounding Drill, 3-Man Rebounding Power-up Drill, Circle Box-Out Drill, War Drill

Basketball Motion Offense

From the Coachs Clipboard Basketball Playbook, @ http://www.coachesclipboard.net A motion offense is a flexible offense that utilizes player movement, correct floor spacing, passing and cutting, and setting screens. Rather than running set plays (which can also be run in the motion offense), players move within a basic set of rules. This allows for greater flexibility than just running set plays, and will usually be effective against any kind of defense, whether man-to-man, zone or "junk" defenses. Players can move freely to open areas on the court. Once the basic concepts are learned, special patterns or plays can be designed by the coach to take advantage of his team's offensive strengths. Motion offense can be run with almost any set. The 3-out, 2-in set described in this article features three perimeter players and two post players. This set provides good balance between the perimeter game and strong inside post play, with good offensive rebounding presence. Teams that are not blessed with true post players (and are more guard-oriented)

would benefit by using either the 4-out, 1-in motion offense, or the 5-out open post motion offense. You can also use a 1-3-1 or a 1-4 set. For purposes of this discussion, I will use the 3 out, 2 in set which uses 3 perimeter players and 2 post players (see diagram A). If you have a very talented team with five players who can play any position, they can interchange or rotate into any of the five positions. If you have two dominant post players, or excellent perimeter players, then you will want to rotate a little differently. In the later case, have the two posts rotate with each other and the three perimeter players rotate in the three outside positions. Always try to have your point guard O1 bring the ball up the floor and start the offense. Make sure that whoever is at the O1 position when the shot is taken, stays back to prevent the opponent's fast break. The O3, O4, O5 positions go for the offensive rebound and the O2 position plays half-rebound and half-prevent mode.

Basic rules:
Spacing
Players should try to stay 12 to 15 feet apart. Avoid bunching up, which can result in double-teams, steals, interceptions, and turnovers.

in double-teams, steals, interceptions, and turnovers.

Triple threat position and patience.

Perimeter players should always receive the ball in triple threat position, where the player has the options of shooting, driving to the hoop, or passing. In triple threat position, outside players should (1) look into the post, (2) read the defense and look for the opportunity for a shot, shot fake, or a dribble-move. Perimeter players should be patient and hold the ball for a count of two to allow the screens and cuts to develop. If the pass is too soon, the cutters don't have time to execute their cuts. The exception is when the defense is coming to trap, then pass immediately. Do not allow your players, after receiving a pass on the perimeter, to immediately put the ball on the floor, bounce it once, and then lose the dribble. The player actually loses the options of shooting and driving to the hoop, and passing may be more difficult when the defender closes in, and the other defenders go into deny. We are constantly teaching and reminding players to "get in triple threat position".

Players may dribble:

1. To attack the basket with a drive. 2. Improve or open the passing lane. 3. Penetrate gaps in a zone defense. 4. To get out of trouble and avoid the 5-second count. 5. To exchange positions with another player. For example, if you want the ball to go to the wing, and the defense is denying the pass, the point guard can simply dribble to the wing, and the wing player can exchange and go to the point. 6. To run up a weave-screen play.

Player Movement
Players must not stand still. They must move with a purpose. 1. The post players can screen for each other and move up and down the lane to the low blocks, elbows, and top of the free throw line. 2. The perimeter players can occupy the three positions shown in diagram A, and also move to the corners. They may make front or backdoor cuts to the hoop, and V-cuts to

replace themselves (see Cutting and Faking). They screen for each other and run pick and roll moves (see Setting Screens). They must move after making a pass. Perimeter players should maintain good spacing at all times and keep the defense spread out. Fill the open spots on the perimeter. An outside player can make a cut inside, but should not stay there and clog things up for our post players. For example, if O1 cuts inside through the paint and does not receive the ball, he/she should immediately cut out to the opposite corner and then wing, while that wing player moves out to fill the spot at the point. If O1 is having difficulty passing to the wing (the defense is denying the pass to the wings), then he/she can simply dribble the ball to the wing. We have a rule (except in a weave-screen play)... whenever a teammate is dribbling toward you, back-cut out of the area. For example, if O1 dribbles toward O2, O2 back-cuts underneath along the baseline and fills the O3 spot while O3 rotates out to the point. Another thing you can do if the wing pass is being denied is simply run a "weave-screen" play.

Passing
We want to try to get the ball into the low post. A wing entry is usually the easiest way. You can also get there by passing to a post on the free throw line, and the high-post can then pass to the low post. At all times we must "see the defense" and not pass into the defense. Don't pass to someone standing still as these passes are more likely to be intercepted. After passing, players must do one of these: 1. Cut to the hoop for the return pass ("give and go" play). 2. Screen away. Example: after the point guard passes to the right wing (O2), he sets a screen for the left wing (O3). 3. Follow the pass and set a screen for the ball-handler (and then roll off the screen). 4. V-cut and replace self. 5. After a cross-court "skip" pass (example from O3 to O2), slide out of the defender's (who should be in "helpside") line of vision and go backdoor to the hoop. 6. After a wing passes into the low post, he/she should slide down to the corner. If the post player is double-teamed, the corner is usually the easiest pass back outside and is often open for the three-point shot.

Read the defense

Situations for Perimeter players:

1. You have the ball and the defender is overplaying you up tight: make a jab-step fake and drive straight to the hoop. Don't go wide around the defender as this just allows the defender time to recover. Make contact with the defender's shoulder and get him/her on your backside. If help defense closes in, dish to the low post where the help came from. (See Outside Moves) 2. You have the ball and the defender is sagging off you: hit the outside shot. 3. You have the ball and the defender is playing good defense on you: pass to a teammate and then execute one of the five options above (what to do after passing). 4. You have the ball and the defender is playing good defense on you and your teammates are being denied the pass: call out and execute a weave screen play. 5. You are one pass away and the defense is denying the pass to you: Make a fake outside, and then cut hard backdoor. The low post on that side should learn to read this situation also and clear out to the opposite side, to make spacing for the backdoor cut. See Diagram B. 6. You are one pass away and the defender is sagging off you: make a V-cut inside and come back out for the perimeter pass. See Diagram C. 7. You are one pass away, and the defender is playing good defense and you can't get free: Set a screen either for the ball-handler or the low post.

Situations for post players:

1. Read the defensive overplay (deny) on the wing. Flash to the high post to receive the ball and then pass to the wing going backdoor (see Diagram B2). 2. You get the ball one on one against the defense: Make a low post move. Try to score or get fouled. (see Post Moves). 3. You get the ball and are double-teamed: Pass the ball back outside, often to where the double team came from. Going "insideout" is a good way to get wide open three-point shots.

Post players working together:

1. If the ball-side post is being fronted: the opposite post flashes to the ball-side elbow for the pass. Meanwhile the low post player seals the defender on his back, and the post at the elbow passes inside to the low post for the lay-up. See Diagram D. 2. If the ball-side post defender is playing behind: The wing should pass to the low post, and the opposite post player should clear out to the weak-side elbow. See Diagram E. 3. If the ball-side post defender is 1/2 or 3/4 defending him with a hand in front: the ballside post should set a screen for the weak-side post, who comes to the ball for the pass and lay-up (Diagram F). Note that if the low post defenders switch on this screen, then the low post cutter should move out to the ball-side short corner (or high-post), and the

screener should seal off his defender and come back to the ball for the lay-up. (see Diagram G).

Also, be sure to see this page on some Hi-Lo options that your post players can run. Once your team learns and executes these concepts, you can devise your own patterns and special plays to create opportunities for your best scorers and take advantage of the defense's weaknesses. For example, if the defense is in a 1-3-1 zone, then consider using two of the perimeter players out on top and drop the third perimeter player down in the ball-side corner (see Attacking the 1-3-1 Zone). If the defense is in a 3-2 zone, after passing to the wing, have your point guard shallow cut to the ball-side corner to overload the zone (see Attacking the 3-2 Zone). You don't need a time-out to communicate this... just yell out "corner 1" (point guard shallow cuts to corner) or "corner 2" (O2 slides down to the corner), or "corner 3" (O3 moves to the corner). If they are in 1-2-2 zone, have one of your post players play up on the free throw line (yell "1 up"). If you want to try the 1-4 set, call "2up" and both posts move up to the elbows. Of course you can get more creative on these signal calls! (See Motion Options) There are a number of set plays that can be run with the 3-out, 2-in motion offense (see related pages below). If you have a shortage of post players, consider the 4-out, 1-in motion offense, the 5-out (open-post) motion offense, or the Open-Post Double-Up motion offense.

Related pages: Drills for Teaching the 3-2 Motion Offense, Guard (Perimeter) Breakdown Drills, Low Post Breakdown Drills, 3-2 Motion Options, 3-2 Motion Plays, 3-2 Hi-Lo Plays, 90 Series, MSU, Michigan, Kentucky, Loyola, Texas, 3-2 Slip Play, Weave Screen Plays, 32 Option Series, Isolation Play

Basketball Fundamentals - Offensive Tips

From the Coachs Clipboard Basketball Playbook, @ http://www.coachesclipboard.net 1. Practice, practice, practice shooting. Work with your shooting form, the "platform", "L", "hinge" and "gooseneck" so that you learn to shoot with your fingertips and get back-spin on your shot ("rotation"). You may not be strong enough yet to do this, but most good shooters eventually learn this. To perfect your shooting technique, practice shots within just a few feet of the basket, every day. Then practice lay-ups, free-throws, 2-pointers, even 3-pointers, and eventually learn to shoot a jump-shot. Don't be afraid to

take a good shot. Look for a chance to shoot. But don't force bad shots. See Learning How to Shoot. 2. Become a good dribbler and ball-handler. Dribbling and ball-handling are the foundation skills for almost any offensive move with the ball. Practice dribbling drills and moves for 15 minutes every day (see Dribbling, Stationary Dribbling Drills, and Sideline Dribbling Drills) 3. Learn the "triple-threat" position, the proper stance so you will have the option of being able to shoot, pass or dribble. See "Outside Moves". 4. Be a good passer. Bad passing and turnovers will destroy a team faster than anything! Make good, short, quick, crisp passes...they're hard to intercept. Avoid long cross-court passes, unless your teammate is wide open. Learn to use your peripheral vision and avoid throwing the ball to your opponent. Make a good pass that your teammate can easily catch. A really good passer can pass to a teammate without looking directly at her. Avoid telegraphing your passes (more in practice). Learn how to make good bounce passes. Learn when not to pass and avoid passing into a crowd. 5. Court awareness. Always know where the ball is, don't turn your back on the ball. "Survey" the court. Look for the open teammate with your peripheral vision. Look to the "weak side" of the floor for an easy "back-door" pass and lay-up. Learn to "cut" and find an open area on the floor, where your teammate can pass to you for an easy shot. 6. Except for the point guard, go hard for the offensive rebound. Many easy baskets are scored on second and third chances, if you can get the rebound (see Rebounding Tips). The point guard, O1, should stay back out on top to prevent the other team's fast break (if they get the rebound). If O1 drives to the basket for a shot, O2 (or O3) should stay back. Also, get in the good habit of following your own shot after you shoot. Many times, if your shot is too short or too hard, it will come off the rim right back toward you. Expect this when you shoot, and go get it! You may get a second chance to make that basket. Three of the five players should always go hard for the offensive rebound, one is halfrebounding and half-preventive mode, and one is always back to prevent the opponent's fast break. 7. Get the ball down the floor quickly, fast-break whenever possible and beat the defense down the court. But play under control at all times. Don't try to go faster than you are able!--you'll lose the ball or make a bad pass. It's difficult even for high school kids to learn how to play with quickness and speed, while still staying under control. Remember: "You must be quick...but never hurry." 8. Avoid too much dribbling as this just allows the defense time to reset. Quick passing and cutting is the secret. But never give up your dribble without being able to pass or shoot the ball. John Wooden, a retired famous coach from UCLA, told his players, "You should always end your dribble with either a pass or a shot." Don't stop your dribble until

you can do either. Learn how to jump stop at the end of your speed dribble (see Learning the Jump Stop). 9. Post-up players (O4 and O5) must learn the basic post moves, the drop-step, the jump hook, and up and under moves. Ask your coach to teach you these moves. After learning these basic moves, you can develop other variations of these moves. See Post-Moves. 10. Move without the ball. Don't stand still. Set picks, make cuts through the paint, or "back-door". Be ready to rebound. (See When you don't have the ball..., Cutting and Faking).

Basketball Lay-ups
From the Coachs Clipboard Basketball Playbook, @ http://www.coachesclipboard.net The lay-up is the easiest shot and the first shot you should learn. It's not as easy as it looks at first, as a lot of kids have difficulty getting the correct footwork, and shooting off the correct foot. Then you must also learn to use either hand, and eventually do the reverse lay-up.

Footwork
When dribbling toward the basket, move slightly to one side of the hoop to create the proper angle. If you're on the right side, dribble right-handed, and plant your left (inside) foot and jump off that foot, and finally shoot with your right hand. As you raise your right hand, your right knee should also elevate. Pretend there is a string attached to your right hand and your right knee. Reverse this form if shooting from the left side. As you approach the hoop, take a half step with your outside foot, then take a full stride with your inside foot pushing off the court. When jumping your outside knee should be bent.

pushing off the court. When jumping your outside knee should be bent. Go directly toward the basket, with your head up and eyes focused on the backboard. Go up strong and straight to the hoop. Don't shy away if there is a defender, just go strong to the hoop. You may get fouled and get a three point chance.

Aim
Always use the backboard ("use the glass") when shooting lay-ups from either side. Aim for the top corner of the box on the backboard. Focus in on this area; don't watch the ball. Keep your head up.

The Push Release

Younger players who are not yet strong enough for the underhand release should use the push release. Release the ball with the back of your hands facing you. Extend your shooting arm, as you push the ball to the hoop off your fingertips. You should go up with two hands, then release the ball with your outside hand. A very young player may need to shoot the ball with two hands.

Underhand Release
As you get stronger, you should develop the underhand shot. This release results in a softer shot, and more control when you are moving at high speed. Release the ball with your palm up and arm extended. Let the ball roll off your palm and then your fingertips, and lay the ball softly off the backboard. Use two hands going up, but then release the ball with your outside hand at the top of your jump. Be strong and concentrate... "finish"!

Simple drill for teaching the footwork

Have the players get into a line near the right side of the basket (to shoot the right-handed lay-up). Each player takes a turn. You can use more than one basket if you have enough assistants to watch each player's technique. This drill works on correct footwork. Have the player (with a ball) face the right side of the backboard with both feet together. Then have her take one step forward with the inside (left) foot, plant that foot and jump off of it and shoot the right-handed lay-up. When jumping, the right thigh comes up with the knee bent. Have each player work on this technique. Then try it on the run (without dribbling), and then with dribbling. Do the left side also... on this side you step forward and plant the right (inside) foot, and raise the left thigh and leg.

Basketball Drills - Lay-up Drills

From the Coachs Clipboard Basketball Playbook, @ http://www.coachesclipboard.net Here are several lay-up drills beginning with the old simple 2-line lay-up drill, a 3-line drill (a good pre-game warm-up drill), and several full-court dribble lay-up drills that also help with conditioning and speed-dribbling. Be sure to see the 2-minute drill (one of our favorites). For correct lay-up technique and footwork, see: Lay-ups

2-Line Layup Drill

This classic drill has been around since basketball was invented, and is still a good drill for practicing layups, both right and left-handed. See the diagram. There are two lines, a "shooting" line and a "rebounding" line. The drill starts with the first shooter dribbling in and shooting the lay-up, while the first rebounder rebounds and passes to the next shooter cutting toward the basket. The shooter goes to the rebounding line and the rebounder goes to the shooting line. After a few minutes, switch sides so that now the left line is the shooting line (for shooting lefthanded lay-ups). As an option, run the drill with two balls. Pointers:

When shooting a left-handed lay-up, dribble with the left hand, and vice-versa for right-handed lay-ups. Passes should be bounce passes. Make sure players are using correct footwork and technique. See Lay-up. Make sure the two lines start well outside of the arc... if the lines are too close to the basket, there is little running and the drill tends to drag. Players should run this drill at game speed, up-tempo. You can make a team competition out of it by requiring the team to make a certain number of lay-ups within two-minutes. If they fail, everyone does 5 or 10 push-ups. Making it competitive will force players to run the drill up-tempo, but make sure they don't "cheat" by allowing the lines to come in too close.

3-Line Layup Drill

This drill helps improve players' passing, cutting, receiving and ability to make lay-ups. You can use it as a pregame warm-up drill. Drill: A few players line up at the top of the key, one player in the right corner, and the rest of the players line up at half-court near the right sideline. Use two balls as seen in the diagram. Player #1 passes to player #2 and cuts down the right sideline, then makes sharp cut to the basket. Player #2 passes the ball back to #1 who shoots a lay-up (see diagram A). After shooting, #1 goes to the top-ofthe-key line.

back to #1 who shoots a lay-up (see diagram A). After shooting, #1 goes to the top-ofthe-key line. Player #2 rebounds the shot and passes to player #4 in the corner. Player #2 then follows the pass and goes to the corner. Player #4 passes to the next player in line, and follows the pass, going to the end of half-court line. Run this drill for both right and left handed layups. You can vary this drill by having the shooting line shoot jump shots. You can also make another variation pass it into the high post, and have the high post player take a shot or make a step hop move, while the original passing lane now gets the rebound and makes the outlet.

2-Minute Full-Court Left-Hand Lay-up Drill

This is a favorite drill that we often run at the end of practice. It helps us with our left-handed layups, left-handed dribble and conditioning. It is a competitive drill where the team has to make a certain number of left-handed lay-ups within 2 minutes. We use 75 for high school boys varsity and 65 for girls varsity. If they fail to make the goal, they run or do push-ups. Drill: Half of the players are on each end of the court with the first two players in each line having a ball. On "Go!" the first two players from each end start the lefthanded speed dribble and shoot the left-handed lay-up. The next player on that end gets the rebound and speed dribbles up the other side. Players must speed dribble quickly and make most of their lay-ups to achieve the goal. If the team fails to make the goal, they run or do push-ups. If we have had a good practice with good effort, we give them a "second chance" by allowing everyone a chance to make a half-court shot. If just one player makes it, nobody has to run and instead they should celebrate as a team mobbing the shooter with lots of "high-5's" ... it's a fun thing and a good way to end practice on a positive note.

Of course, you could run this drill with right-handed lay-ups as well, especially for younger teams and make the goal easier to achieve.

Basketball Shooting - Learning How to Shoot

From the Coachs Clipboard Basketball Playbook, @ http://www.coachesclipboard.net Years ago we used to think that some kids were just "born-shooters"... either you had the knack or you didn't. Nowadays, I believe everyone can become a good shooter with correct instruction on the fundamentals of shooting, combined with drills and practice. This article discusses the fundamentals of good shooting form. The principles discussed below should be used as guidelines, not absolutes, and may be helpful in correcting or teaching a player who is struggling with his/her shooting, or is just learning to shoot. Coaches should resist the urge to change a player's shot if it works for that player. We can all think of great shooters who didn't have perfect form. So, "if it ain't broke, don't fix it!"

Stance
Have your feet about shoulder width apart. Your knees should be bent a little as your thigh muscles will provide power for your shot. If you shoot right-handed, your right foot should be slightly forward, and your weight should be on the balls of your feet (not the heels). Your shoulders and body should be square to the hoop, although some great shooters are more comfortable with the side that the ball is on turned a little toward the hoop (find out which is most comfortable for you). Probably the important thing here is

that when you jump to shoot, jump straight up (or slightly forward), but not sideways or backwards. Stay balanced.

Holding the ball

Use both hands to hold the ball, but only your shooting hand will actually propel the ball forward. Don't shoot two-handed. Your shooting hand is the "platform" and should be underneath the ball with your wrist cocked back. Your elbow should be bent at about 90%, like a backwards "L", and underneath the ball (not out to the side). Your other hand (the "guide hand") helps support or balance the ball, but does not enter into the actual shooting of the ball. Your nonshooting hand should actually come off the

the ball. Your nonshooting hand should actually come off the ball just before you release the ball, so that you are shooting with one hand, just your shooting hand. Use your fingertips, not palms, to hold and release the ball. Here is a method to learn what the correct "platform" is. Extend your shooting arm straight forward with your palm facing up and let the ball sit comfortably your hand (fingers comfortably apart). Now in one motion, bend the elbow while rotating the forearm, wrist and hand outward and upward, and under the

forearm, wrist and hand outward and upward, and under the ball so that the ball is now resting on your hand above your right shoulder with the wrist cocked back. The shoulder is the "hinge", the elbow points toward the hoop and an "L" is formed by the forearm and the arm (looking from the shooting arm side). Your elbow should be in and pointing at the basket. The position of the shooting hand's thumb is important. The shooting thumb should be pointing upward at about a 45 degree angle left (righthanded shooter). This will cause the

degree angle left (righthanded shooter). This will cause the elbow to naturally fall under the ball. I have seen some young players with the thumb too far under the ball and pointing straight leftward, which causes the elbow to fly outward (see the two photos). So if your shooter's release looks a little goofy, has side-spin, or the elbow is flying, look at the position of the thumb... a very simple concept that's easy to fix.

Set Point
The set point is where you position the ball just prior to releasing the shot. If you are righthanded and shoot with your shoulders and feet square to the hoop, have the ball to the right of your face, a little toward the right shoulder. Don't line the ball up in the center of your face, as this may result in your shooting elbow flying away from your body, and could actually cause your wrist to turn sideways (supinate) when you release the ball, imparting a side-spin.

On the other hand, if you are more comfortable shooting with your body turned in toward the shooting side, then the set point can be more in front of your face. You will have to find which method works best for you. Also, it is best that the ball is as high as your forehead, or even higher (if you are strong enough or close to the basket), in order to keep your shot from being blocked. But do not cock the ball back over the top of (or behind) your head. This results in a "slinging" motion and a flatter shot.

"slinging" motion and a flatter shot. Finally, younger players who have less strength will have a lower set point, perhaps even below the shoulder, in order to get more power. As the youngster matures, the set point should move higher.

Upward Force
Most of the power in your shot should come from the upward force of your jump (in the jump shot), or the upward force from your thighs moving upward (in the free throw). You should not try to power up longer shots with your arm, wrist or hand muscles. Let the big muscles in the legs do the work. Release your shot on the upward force of the jump, not on the way down.

Aiming the ball

Pick out a spot to aim at... either the back of the rim, or just over the front of the rim, or the backboard (if you are shooting a bank shot). Concentrate on this spot, and don't look at the ball, or the flight of the ball.

Releasing (shooting) the ball

Use the shoulder as a "hinge". Your shooting arm extends forward toward the hoop (keep the elbow in), the elbow extends (straightens), and then you release the ball with a snap of the wrist, with the ball rolling off your fingertips. This will imparts backspin ("rotation") that all good shooters have. Backspin makes the ball land softly on the rim, and often creates a favorable "shooter's" bounce, resulting in a score even though the shot was not perfect. Shoot the ball high with an arc. Don't shoot a flat, line drive, type of shot. An arched shot has a better chance of going in, since the hoop is actually bigger and wider for a ball coming in from above, than from a line drive. Don't "push" the ball with the heel of your palm; let it come off your finger-tips. Make sure that you extend (straighten) your elbow... don't "short-arm" the shot. The release should be repeatable. Don't sling the ball up for more power on long shots... use the power from the up-force of your jump, or lower your set point for more power. Don't pull the ball back behind

up for more power on long shots... use the power from the up-force of your jump, or lower your set point for more power. Don't pull the ball back behind your head before releasing it, as this results in a flat, line-drive type shot. On shorter shots, release the ball more at the top of the jump with a higher set point (arms extended up over your head).

Follow Through
This is important in getting the proper rotation (back spin) on the ball. Your fingers should be pointing toward the hoop, and your wrist bent forward, in a "goose neck" fashion. Another analogy is if you were "reaching into the cookie jar" high on the shelf. Hold this release after your shot until the ball hits the rim. You will notice that with a proper follow-through, the palm of your hand will be facing downward toward the floor. If it is turned sideways with the back of the hand facing outward (as if you were going to shake hands with someone), then you are incorrectly twisting your wrist during the release. Keep your eye on the target... don't watch the flight of the ball.

Form Shooting
"Form shooting" is an excellent drill for developing correct shooting form. Start with shots directly in front of the basket, just a few feet away, to develop correct technique. Shooting further away does not allow the shooter to focus on this repeatable form. Do this drill for just 5 minutes every day. Even experienced good shooters who are going through a "shooting slump" find this drill helpful in restoring their shooting mechanics and confidence. See video clip. Move farther away as you get better, but do not sacrifice correct technique. Practice shooting from locations where you will likely shoot from in a game.

Basketball Drills - 2-Man Shooting Drills

From the Coachs Clipboard Basketball Playbook, @ http://www.coachesclipboard.net Here are several partner shooting drills. Have each player get a partner and use all of your baskets. With all of these drills, make sure your shooters are squared up, using good shooting technique, elbow in, follow through, no drifting sideways. Shooters should receive the ball in triple threat position. Make sure the passes are sharp and accurate. Players should sprint after the ball and to their shooting spots (game speed)... no loafing! Make the drills competitive and have each pair keep score. Losers do push-ups.

Shooting Drill #1, Catch and Shoot.

Player #1 makes a good chest pass to player #2. #1 follows the pass and closes-out on #2, but does not try to block the shot or simply fly by the shooter. #2 takes the shot (no dribbling)and follows it for the rebound. Now player #2 passes back out to player #1 (who is at position A) and closes-out on #1, who is now the shooter. After both players have shot from position A, they move next to position B, and on around the circle and then back around again (E>D->C->B->A). If you are coaching younger players, have them move in closer so that correct shooting form is not compromised.

Shooting Drill #2, Shot Fake and Shoot Jumper.

Follow the same procedure as in Drill #1, but this time have your shooter first receive the pass in triple threat position, make a shot fake or jab step, move around the defender using no more than one or two dribbles, and then shoot the jump shot. The shooter can move in either direction, using a pump fake and moving right, or a shot fake and crossover move to the left.

Shooting Drill #3, Fake and Drive for the Lay-up.

Again, the same procedure is used. This time the receiver makes a shot fake and explodes through the defender (rub off his shoulder) for the drive to the hoop and lay-up.

Shooting Drill #4, Anything Goes!

Same procedure as above, but now the shooter has all of the above options and the defender plays all out defense.

Shooting Drill #5, Elbow Shooting.

Player #1 is the re-bounder for player #2. #2 starts at the left elbow, fakes left and cuts to the right elbow. #1 passes to #2 so that the pass arrives at the right elbow the same time #2 does. #2 plants the inside foot, squares up and takes the shot. Make sure that correct shooting form is being used and that the shooter does not "drift" sideways. #1 rebounds the

is being used and that the shooter does not "drift" sideways. #1 rebounds the shot and passes back to #2 for the shot now at the left elbow. #2 continues moving back and forth from elbow to elbow for a total of ten shots. Then the players switch roles and #1 is the shooter for ten shots. You can repeat this for as many sets as you want, getting 20, 30, 40 or 50 shots for each player. The elbow shooting drill can be modified. You can have the shooter catch the ball, make a shot fake, cross-over dribble to the middle of the paint (between the free throw line and the circle hash marks) for the short jumper. This is especially useful for your post players, helping them to acquire that "soft touch" on the short, point blank jumper.

Shooting Drill #6, Partner Shooting.

This drill will help shooting, spotting up, and will emphasize that shooters should follow their shots. Each player gets a partner, preferably with another player who plays a similar position. That is, the a perimeter player should pair up with another perimeter player, and post players should pair up together. Each pair has a ball. Use all the baskets in the gym. For perimeter players: One player starts on the right wing (player #1) and the other starts opposite on the left wing (player #2). Player #1 on the right wing shoots, follows the shot,

rebounds and passes out to #2 on the left wing. Player #1 then spots up at another place on the perimeter. Player #2 takes the shot, follows it, rebounds, and passes to #1, who is now spotted up in a different location. This rotation continues, with the players moving around to all the locations that they will normally shoot from in a game... corners, top of the key, etc. For a variation, do the same drill but instead of spot stationary shooting, have the shooter fake the shot, dribble adjust, and then take the jumper. For post players: Use the same drill as above except the post players should be taking their shots inside, in the paint, around the hoop, and can actually work on their post-up moves. After rebounding, the player can dribble the ball out and pass down into the post to his partner. With all of these drills, make sure your shooters are squared up, using good technique, elbow in, follow through, no drifting sideways. Shooters should receive the ball in "triple threat" position. Make sure the passes are sharp and accurate. Players should sprint after the ball and to their shooting spots (game speed)... no loafing! Make the drills competitive and have each pair keep score. Losers do push-ups.

Basketball Fundamentals - Setting Screens (Picks)

From the Coachs Clipboard Basketball Playbook, @ http://www.coachesclipboard.net A screen or "pick" occurs when an offensive player attempts to block, or "screen", a defensive player away from the man he is guarding, thereby freeing up that offensive player for an open shot or pass. Setting good screens (or "picks") is a very important fundamental part of the game. It is often assumed that players will know how to do this, but like any other important fundamental, it must be taught correctly. Screens are most helpful in freeing up a teammate against a man-to-man defense, and in out-of-bounds plays, and there are times when you can screen a zone defense as well. Setting good picks are basic to most offensive plays. The "pick and roll" is still one of the simplest plays, but when done correctly, one of the most difficult to defend. The Utah Jazz's John Stockton and Karl Malone were masters of the pick and roll.

Important elements in executing an effective screen.

1. The screener must make contact with (but not foul, hold or push) the defender that he/she is trying to block. If you do not make contact, and get up tight, the defender will simply slide around you. 2. Be strong. Get your feet wide and plant your feet solidly. Do not move your feet once you have established this position or you will get called for a "moving screen" (a foul). You must be stationary and not move with the defender, and you must not push the

defender away. If a defender bumps into you and you are not stationary, you will probably be called for the foul. 3. Keep your arms tucked into your chest, not only to physically protect yourself, but also so the ref can see that you are not pushing with your hands, or grabbing or holding the defender. 4. The angle, or direction, of the pick and the timing of the pick are probably the most important, and most overlooked factors in setting a screen. You must have the correct angle, or position, when you set the pick. You must anticipate the direction that your offensive teammate wants to go, and then make contact with his defender in a position so that you are directly in the way of the defender, and he/she cannot get around you. If you don't get the right angle, the defender will simply slide around you. Perhaps this is best demonstrated in the diagram. In Diagram A, the screener does not make contact, and the defender slips behind. In Diagram B, the pick is too high ( a common mistake), and the defender slides behind the pick and stays with the defender. In Diagram C, the pick is too low, and the defender can fight over the screen. Diagram D shows a good pick, followed by screener "rolling" to the hoop.

5. After your teammate cuts around the screen, the screener "seals" off the screened defender and "rolls" (cuts) toward the hoop. If the defense switches the screen, often the "roller" will be open for the pass. 6. The timing of the offensive player receiving the pick. The player receiving the pick must be patient and wait for the screen from his teammate to arrive. Often, I will see a player make his cut just before the pick is "set", and the defender easily gets around it (because it never had a chance to be set). You must wait for the pick to be set, and then cut hard around it. 7. The offensive player receiving the screen must cut hard, and close to the teammate setting the screen. You must "rub off" your teammate's screen... that is, brush against him as you go by. If you don't brush close to the screen, the defender can slip through the screen.

8. Remember, there are two options on the pick and roll play... pass either to the cutter, or if the defense switches, pass to the "roller".

Types of Screens
See diagram E. Screens can be on-ball (when set for the ball-handler), or off-ball.

1. Front-screen
The screener is facing the defender that he is setting the screen on, often used in the open court.

2. Back-screen
The screener sets the screen on the defender's "blind" side, or back side. Usually the screener is facing away from the basket.

3. Down-screen
The screener sets the screen usually down low for a player near the block, and is usually facing the basket with his back to the ball. When completing the "roll" move, he/she pivots facing the ball. Refer to diagram E. On-ball, front screen: O3 sets pick for O1, the ballhandler. Back-screen: O4 sets backscreen for O2, who goes backdoor to the hoop. When setting the back-screen, the screener must allow a one-step gap between himself and the screened defender.

screened defender. Down-screen: O3 sets downscreen for O5, who cuts outside for the pass from O1. See also: Pick Drills

Basketball Drills - Pick (Screen) Drills

From the Coachs Clipboard Basketball Playbook, @ http://www.coachesclipboard.net It is important that your players know how to set correct screens. The first drill is a pass and "screen away" drill that helps stress all the ingredients of setting good screens, and teaches the pick and roll move. The second drill is a screen set for the ball-handler, with

execution of the pick and roll move. For the important basics of setting screens, see "Setting Screens".

Drill #1. Pass and ScreenAway.

Create three lines out along the 3-point arc corresponding to a point guard, and both wing positions (see diagram). Have an assistant or manager be the token defender on the left wing. The point guard starts by passing to the right wing. He/she then "screens away" for the left wing, setting the pick on the defender. The wing player cuts around the screen and gets the pass from the right wing, and takes it to the hoop. The screener should "roll" off the pick after cutter comes around. See "Setting Screens" for correct screening techniques, and the pick and roll technique. Have the players rotate right wing, to point, to left wing. Make sure that the screeners make contact, get wide and strong and stationary with arms in, and make sure they have the correct angle on the screen. Make sure the player cutting around the screen waits for the screen to develop, and "rubs off" the screen correctly.

Make sure the pivot on the roll move is toward the cutter, not away... a player should not turn his back to his teammate. Make sure as always that players hustle, and the passes are sharp. Once you feel that your team is making good screens, "go live". Break up into groups of three, and put a defender on each offensive player. Tell the defenders to allow the first pass to the right wing, but then play tough "D". You can now also teach your defense how to fight through, and slide behind a screen, and how to call a "switch" on defense. You can also start with a pass to the left wing, and screen right, or let the point guard go either way. Look at the diagrams below for common screening errors.

Drill #2. On-Ball Front Screen with Pick and Roll.

O1 and O2 have defenders on them. O2 sets a front screen for O1 (Diagram A). O1 dribbles around the screen, "brushing off" the screener. If the defense does not switch, O1 takes it in for the lay-up (Diagram B), and O2 will roll as the trailer for the rebound. Now see Diagram C for the next option. If the defenders switch the screen, O2 (after screening and pinning the defender) should "roll" to the hoop, and expect the bounce pass from O1.

Basketball Play - Out-of-bounds play "Spread", or "Line"

From the Coachs Clipboard Basketball Playbook, @ http://www.coachesclipboard.net This play starts with a 4-across, down low spread setup (Diagram A). The guts of the play is with your two strong low post players who position themselves at each low block. It is a pick and seal play that is very simple, and amazingly effective. The ball-side low post (O4) sets a pick for the opposite low post (O5) and seals the defender for inside position. O5 cuts around the screen to the middle of the lane looking for the pass and the easy, point blank shot (see Diagram B). Now, look at Diagram C... if O4's defender (X4) switches and picks up O5, then O4 should have inside position (if he/she sealed the X5 defender correctly), and should get the pass for the easy lay-in. O4 need not be concerned about the "3-seconds" call when positioning inside the lane, as the 3-second count does not begin until the ball is touched inbounds. Meanwhile, your outside players are making their cuts. O2 (your good outside shooter) makes a V-cut out and cuts back to the corner, looking for the pass and the three-point shot. After your post players get a couple easy lay-ups, the defense will "sag" into the paint and then O2 should get some good opportunities. O1 makes a cut out to the top of the ball-side three-point circle, looking for a pass, and also acts as the one player back on defense. After making the in-bounds pass, O3 either becomes a re-bounder (if the pass goes inside), or cuts out to the ball-side corner. If the in-bounds pass went out on top to O1, then O3 should cut quickly to the corner and look for the pass back from O1 and the potential three-point corner shot.