These are 5 types of shooters/scorers that each have their own way of putting the ball in the basket. Kevin Durant: Kevin Durant is a pure scorer, meaning he can shoot from almost anywhere on the court in any manner: catch and shoot, off-the-dribble, in the post, fadeaways, twisting layups, towering dunks, laser like free throw shooting, you name it. While he has weaknesses in his offense, very few can score and shoot the ball as efficiently as Kevin Durant can. Steve Novak: Steve Novak is … [Read more...]
Basketball Training How-To: 6 Ways to Improve Ball-Handling Skills
As a basketball player, ball-handling ability should be one of your top priorities. Great ball-handling skills reduce turnovers and can even create more opportunities to score. While ball-handling comes naturally to some players, it can be a challenge for others. A taller player must also have expert ball-handling ability to prevent turnovers. If you really want to become a complete package, try focusing on your ball-handling ability in addition to the other fundamentals. Let’s take a look … [Read more...]
The Hook Shot
[Ed. Note: The following article is borrowed from a 1962 Sports Illustrated "Book of Basketball". Video links within and at the end of the article have obviously been added to use video to show the hook shot.] The great advantage of the hook shot ... is the fact that it is almost impossible to block when executed reasonably correctly. The great drawback of the hook is that it is a very difficult maneuver. It requires utmost precision and concentration, which must be acquired through long … [Read more...]
How to Score Off a Ball Screen
Ball screens can be an a very effective tool in an offense. In order to use them the right way the ball handler needs to be able to read and react to each ball screen situation. The defense can choose between several different tactics when guarding a ball screen. They can show, switch, trap, go under, flat switch, etc. it usually depends on where the ball screen is and what type of players are using the ball screen. Since there are so many different ways the defense can guard the ball screen … [Read more...]
How to Dribble a Basketball
:: From the Hoops U. 'How-To' Series :: Dribbling is how you move the basketball without passing. It allows you to move the basketball up the court. It gives you the chance to pass from a better angle. It is how you can drive to the basket for an easier shot attempt. Dribbling is a necessary basketball skill -- and every dribble should have a purpose! Good basketball players separate themselves from mediocre players by being able to handle the basketball. For beginners, it is essential to … [Read more...]
How to Shoot a Layup
:: From the Hoops U. 'How-To' Series :: Layups are the easiest and most basic shot in basketball. They are also the first type of shot that players should learn. There are certainly a variety of layups that players can utilize and we'll discuss them below. It is important, however, that players master the fundamental progression. That is, learn the basic layup before attempting reverse layups, finger rolls, etc. Footwork is the biggest factor in shooting a layup and they need to master the … [Read more...]
How to Break Pressure Defenses
:: From the Hoops U. 'How-To' Series :: The purpose of this article is to help the basketball player by giving specific tips, techniques and an understanding of how to beat pressure defenses such as full court presses and half court traps. Basketball coaches will also benefit from this article by sharing these ideas with your players. For specific offensive sets to help beat pressure, check the 'Attacking the Zone Press' page. As an offensive player going against either a full court press or … [Read more...]