Purpose: To work on defensive footwork, closing out, and defending the ball in a one-on-one situation. The offensive player also gets work in trying to score against a single defender. Drill: Offensive players starts on one low block, defensive player starts on the opposite low block. Coach, manager, or third player stands at baseline with the basketball. The drill begins with the coach or passer rolling or tossing the basketball to the top of the key. As soon as the ball is rolled, O1 … [Read more...]
Closeout and Cut Off Drill
Purpose: To work on closing out effectively while still being able to cut off dribble penetration. Drill: One defensive player, one offensive player, and one passer needed for this drill. The passer stands at the top of the key with a basketball. The defender starts on the low block (X1) and the offensive player starts on the wing (O1). 'C' passes the basketball to O1 on the wing. X1 closes out on O1 from his position on the low block. O1 attempts to drive against X1 and can go … [Read more...]
1-on-1 Fullcourt Zigzag with Closeout Drill
Purpose: To work on individual transition defense and closing out on the shooter from a transition situation. Drill: Use 2 lines as shown. O1 and O2 both have a basketball and are being defended by X1 and X2. X1 and X2 defend the zig-zag dribble downcourt. The offense isn't really "trying" to beat the defender but if the defender is playing too lazy, go right ahead. Defensively, just remember to stay low in a solid stance and change direction quickly. As the offensive player nears the … [Read more...]
Closeout and Contest Dribble Drive Drill
Purpose: To work on closeouts, stopping the dribble-drive, and overall 1-on-1 defense. The offensive player gets to work on scoring off of a dribble move. Drill: Utilize baskets and groups or have all players at one basket. The players will be under the basket but off the court. The first player in line is on the baseline with a basketball. An offensive player starts at the free throw line. To begin, the first player in line rolls the basketball to the offensive player (in diagram, X1 to … [Read more...]
4-Man Help and Recover Drill
Purpose: To teach the defender to closeout, defend on-ball, jump to the ball in denial position, recover to defend the shot and blockout. This drill also stresses quick and efficient defensive footwork. Drill: Three offensive men start as shown in the diagram. The defensive man starts about midway between the baseline and free throw line with a basketball. To start the drill, the defender passes the ball to the offensive point man. The point catches the ball in triple threat position as the … [Read more...]