- Home
- Sports and Activities
- Coaching and Officiating
- Basketball
- Basketball Skills & Drills
Before you can make that winning buzzer beater, you need to master fundamental skills in all phases of the game. The fourth edition of the best-selling instructional resource Basketball Skills & Drills provides the perfect blueprint for building the foundation that all well-rounded players and championship teams need.
With complete coverage of individual skills and team play, you’ll find 103 developmental drills covering everything from stance and footwork to scoring plays and transitions. Enhanced with an online video library featuring 42 clips demonstrating the drills in action, you’ll have the optimal guide for mastering these fundamental skills:
• Player positioning
• Footwork
• Moving without the ball
• Ballhandling and court vision
• Shooting
• Perimeter moves
• Post moves
• Rebounding
• Team offense
• Team defense
Recognizing that individual skills are effective only when used within the team concept, the book also covers team principles for both ends of the court. Tactics for offense, including special situations for out-of-bounds plays, will improve spacing, ball and player movement, shot selection, and scoring. Defensive tactics emphasize positioning, pressure, and various systems to apply in each zone of the court.
At all levels of basketball, success comes with mastery of the basic skills. Basketball Skills & Drills is your best-selling guide to becoming that dominant force on the court.
Chapter 1. Body Control and Fundamental Footwork
Quick Stance
Quick Starts, Steps, Turns, and Stops
Quick Jumps
Basic Body-Control Drills
Chapter 2. Advanced Body Control
Concepts of Moving Without the Ball on Offense
Basic Moves or Steps Without the Ball
Screen Moves
Drills for Moving Without the Ball
Chapter 3. Ballhandling
Passing and Catching
Principles of Passing and Catching
Types of Passes
Catching Principles
Communication of Passing and Catching
Dribbling
Basic Ballhandling Drills
Chapter 4. Shooting
Field-Goal Shooting
Shooting Mechanics
Other Types of Shots
Free-Throw Shooting
Shooting Drills
Chapter 5. Outside Offensive Moves: Playing the Perimeter
Fundamentals of Live-Ball Moves
Fundamentals of Dead-Ball Moves
Perimeter-Play Drills
Chapter 6. Inside Offensive Moves: Playing the Post
Post-Play Fundamentals
Post Skills
Post or Inside Moves
Post Drills
Chapter 7. Individual Defense
Fundamentals of Defense
Essentials of Defense
On-the-Ball Defense
Off-the-Ball Defense
Post Defense
On-the-Ball to Off-the-Ball Defense
Off-the-Ball to On-the-Ball Defense
Special Defensive Situations
Pressuring the Shot
Defensive Drills
Chapter 8. Rebounding
Rebounding Tools
Motivating Players to Rebound
Rebounding Rules
Defensive Rebounding
Offensive Rebounding
Rebounding Assessment
Rebounding Drills
Chapter 9. Team Offense
General Offensive Principles
Player Positions and Responsibilities
Offensive Team Tactics
Drills for Team Offense
Chapter 10. Team Defense
Defensive Court Levels
Defensive Categories
Drills for Team Defense
Jerry Krause has been a part of Gonzaga University’s men’s basketball program for over 25 years. In 2001, he returned to the university as the director of men’s basketball operations after serving a five-year civilian term at the U.S. Military Academy at West Point. There he was a professor of sports philosophy and director of instruction for the department of physical education.
Krause’s legendary career includes many highlights. He served as head coach at Eastern Washington University (EWU) for 17 years, where his Eagle teams posted a 262-196 record and a .572 winning percentage and attained a graduation record of 84 percent. He has coached at all levels—youth sport through Olympics—and for both men and women. He took a sabbatical from EWU to assist the late Ralph Miller at Oregon State University in writing his first book (Better Basketball Basics) and then returned to EWU to lead the Eagles from the NAIA into the NCAA Division I ranks.
He is one of the most prolific authors of basketball books, having written 34 titles, and has also produced 33 instructional videos. For 50 years he has been research chairman for the National Association of Basketball Coaches and was a long-standing member of the NCAA Basketball Rules Committee. He was involved in rule changes that brought about the 45-second (and later 30-second) shot clock, the three-point shot, and the breakaway rim as well as inventing the NCAA/NBA approved basketball rim tester to standardize ball-rim rebounds and make the game the same around the world. He is a member of the NAIA Basketball Coaches, SHAPE America (formerly National Association for Sport and Physical Education), New York State AHPERD, SHAPE Washington (formerly Washington AHPERD and the Inland Northwest Sports Halls of Fame.
Craig R. Nelson is the boys’ basketball head coach at Washington High School in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. In his six seasons at Washington, he has guided the team to four state AA tournament appearances. Nelson graduated from Northern State University in Aberdeen, South Dakota (2008), where he played for legendary coach Don Meyer. During his college career, Nelson started in all 121 games and helped lead the team to 98 wins. In his senior season, he ranked fourth among all Division II players and ranked first in the Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference (NSIC) in three-point shooting. At the end of his senior season, he was one of the top five free throw shooters in the country (93%). In high school, Nelson played in back-to-back state tournament titles and was named the North Dakota Class B Basketball Player of the Year in 2003. Coaching is part of Nelson’s heritage—his father, Dave Nelson, led teams to multiple high school state tournaments (including the years he was coach to Craig), and Craig’s grandfather, Ed Beyer, is the all-time winningest coach in North Dakota high school history.
“Jerry Krause brings over 50 years of coaching expertise to this book to make the fundamental skills of basketball easy to learn. It is a landmark contribution that will benefit all coaches of men’s and women’s basketball. If you want to teach the basics of basketball, this book is a must for all coaches.”
Lisa Fortier—Head Coach of Gonzaga University Women’s Basketball and 2015 WBCA Division I Rookie Coach of the Year
“Basketball Skills & Drills has stood the test of time. It has become the gold standard for books on fundamental skills. With this latest edition and the new ebook and video library formats, it will continue to be a classic of basketball basics for coaches and players.”
Mark Few—Head Coach of Gonzaga University Men’s Basketball and 2017 Naismith Men’s College Coach of the Year
“The foundation of the great game of basketball never wavers. Players who strive for mastery of the fundamental skills will always be in high demand. The game always belongs to those who can pass, catch, shoot, rebound, and defend. Nobody teaches this better than Coach Jerry Krause.”
Sherri Coale—Head Coach of University of Oklahoma Women’s Basketball and 2017 USBWA Coach of the Year
Principles of passing and catching
The overall goal of passing and catching is for both the passer and the catcher to produce passes that are on time and on target. Table 3.1 presents three key passing principles and three related catching principles.
The overall goal of passing and catching is for both the passer and the catcher to produce passes that are on time and on target. Table 3.1 presents three key passing principles and three related catching principles.
Critical cue
Passes need to be on time and on target.
Players need to look for the pass before dribbling. When catching, players should follow the rim-post-action (RPA) rule: When they catch the ball within the operating area near the offensive basket, they should catch the ball and face the basket to look for the shot (rim or backboard spot), look to pass to a cutter in or near the post area or an inside post player (post), and then move the ball (action). A player's natural preference, or first instinct, however, is to dribble, which is an individual skill and thus tends to be practiced each time a player touches the ball. Overcoming this instinct requires continual emphasis on the shot and pass options.
Critical Cue
See the whole floor with big vision; look to pass first and dribble last.
Players can make good passes only when coaches teach the fundamental elements of passing, including the three passing rules:
- Footwork: Pass with the feet on the floor in most situations. Pass with a quick step for quickness and power (using the stepping foot). When possible, the catcher should catch the ball with the feet in the air. This is critical for avoiding traveling violations; when a player lands with a one-count quick stop, either foot can be used legally as a pivot (turning) foot.
- Target: Each pass must be thrown accurately to a spot target. The target is usually provided by the catcher in the form of a raised hand away from the defender. When possible, players should hold both arms up when catching—one to provide a target hand and the other to ward off the defender (figure 3.2). The catcher must give a spot target whenever possible.
Figure 3.2 Getting open: Keep both arms up.
- Speed of pass: The ball must be passed quickly, before the defender has time to react. The pass should be snappy and crisp—neither too hard nor too easy. A quick step is usually made in the direction of the pass to provide added force. The concept of passing with a ping was made popular by Fred “Tex” Winter, hall of fame coach and longtime assistant coach for the Chicago Bulls and Los Angeles Lakers. The most important part of the successful pass and catch is the second part—the catch. Most of the time, the catcher should catch with a click (getting two hands on the ball). In contrast, if the ball is thrown too hard, it slaps loudly as it is caught; when thrown too softly, no sound is heard. A proper catch can be made in one of two ways: blocking with the outside spot hand and securing the ball with the other hand, or just getting two hands on the ball as soon as possible when catching it.
Here are three more passing recommendations.
- Timing: The ball must be delivered when the receiver is open—not before or after. Pass with a ping at the right time. When learning to pass, exaggerate the follow-through.
- Deception: The passer must use deception to confuse the defender, who is reading the passer (especially the eyes) and anticipating the pass. Use ball fakes and use vision to see the whole floor (big vision) while focusing on the spot target.
- Meeting the ball:Catchers should shorten all passes (i.e., run through the ball) by meeting or coming toward the ball. (This does not apply, of course, on a breakaway, in which the player moves to the basket ahead of the defense.)
Passers should visually locate all teammates and defenders—seeing the rim of the basket when in the frontcourt and the net when in backcourt—while concentrating on the potential receiver without staring. This awareness can best be achieved by surveying the whole floor area (using big vision) with the ball in triple-threat position. When catching a pass, players should always be prepared to shoot (catch the ball and face the basket) if open and within range; if unable to shoot, they should try to pass to an open teammate before dribbling (rim-post-action).
Players must learn to give up the ball unselfishly by passing to an open player. Ball handlers can also dribble-drive and pass (i.e., penetrate and pitch)—that is, create assist opportunities by making dribble moves to the basket that allow them to pass to open teammates who can then score. When players are passing, they should choose to make the easy pass through or by the defender. Coaches should teach players not to gamble on passes; they should be clever but not fancy. Most of the time, a player making a dribble drive should use a quick stop before passing the ball at the end of the penetration or drive, staying under control (maintaining balance) and avoiding the offensive charge. This technique applies the rule of passing and stopping with the feet on the floor. John Stockton, all-star guard for Gonzaga University and the Utah Jazz, became the all-time assist leader in the NBA by making the easy pass (i.e., the simple play). His counterpart at Gonzaga, Courtney Vandersloot, a first team All-American and WNBA all-star was also an unselfish passer known for making the simple play.
Critical Cue
Make the easy pass.
Moves with either pivot foot (advanced)
These moves can be taught when either foot is used as the pivot foot (EPF) in live-ball moves. Both right-handed and left-handed players should be able to use this method to establish either foot as a pivot foot.
These moves can be taught when either foot is used as the pivot foot (EPF) in live-ball moves. Both right-handed and left-handed players should be able to use this method to establish either foot as a pivot foot.
EPF Direct Drive With the Direction Foot (Right Foot, Drive Right; Left Foot, Drive Left) This move, used to dribble-drive past a defender, consists of making the explosion step with the foot on the side to which the player is driving. The sequence is to make a quick stop facing the basket and, when driving right, use the left foot for a pivot foot and take an explosion step past the defender with the right foot; when driving left, step with the left foot and use the right foot as the pivot foot. The ball is pushed ahead on the floor on the dribble drive. The breakdown count consists of taking a long and low explosion step with the foot on the same side as the dribble drive (right foot to the right side, left foot to the left side) and pushing the ball ahead to the floor to start the dribble drive. The ball must be out of the hand before the pivot foot leaves the floor. The disadvantage of this direction-foot move is that hip contact on the defender (with the goal of winning the war of hip contact) occurs on the second step; in other words, the first step of the drive wins only the battle—not the war.
Critical Cues for EPF Moves
- Direct drive: Use the direction foot or the opposite foot.
- Crossover drive: Use the opposite foot.
EPF Direct Drive With the Opposite Foot This move is used to drive past a defender on either side by using the opposite foot to step across and shield the ball as a long and low direct drive is made. The opposite-foot drive is executed by making a quick stop facing the basket and, when driving right, stepping past the defender with a left-foot explosion step and pushing the ball ahead on the dribble drive. The breakdown count consists of taking an explosion step past the defender with the foot opposite the side of the dribble drive and pushing the ball ahead on the floor for the dribble drive (figure 5.7). This move offers the advantage of getting the head and shoulders by and making hip contact on the defender—thus winning both the battle and the war—with the first step.
Figure 5.7 Live-ball move for either pivot foot (EPF)—direct-drive move with the opposite foot: (a) to the right with the left foot, (b) to the left with the right foot.
EPF Crossover Drive Players can also learn a countermove using either foot as the pivot foot: Either fake right and then cross over left with the left pivot foot or fake left and then cross over right with the right pivot foot. This move is carried out by making a quick stop facing the basket, making a jab step and crossover with the same foot to the opposite side (swinging the ball across and close to the body), and, finally, pushing the ball ahead to the floor and starting a dribble drive. The breakdown count consists of a jab step, then a crossover step with the same foot while bringing the ball across the body, and a dribble drive started by pushing the ball ahead to the floor (figure 5.8). This is the preferred EPF move as it allows the offensive player to win the battle (get by defender's front foot) and win the war (inside hip contact) with one crossover step (or by a jab and crossover).
Figure 5.8 Live-ball move for either pivot foot (EPF)—crossover drive: (a) crossing over from right to left (jabbing right), (b) crossover drive to the left past the defender.
Facing-the-basket post play
The technique used for high-post play or short-corner play (from the low-post position) combines back-to-the-basket and facing-the-basket techniques.
The technique used for high-post play or short-corner play (from the low-post position) combines back-to-the-basket and facing-the-basket techniques. Often, the defender in the high-post area defends with a hand in denial position on the ball side. Offensive high-post players may get open by initiating contact with the lower body and providing a target hand away from the defender (figure 6.13). This contact method of getting open has the disadvantage of establishing one foot as the pivot foot when the high-post player catches and faces the basket using RPA. Using either-pivot-foot (EPF) footwork, the post player may give up his or her position in order to catch the ball with both feet in the air facing the basket.
Figure 6.13 Getting open in the high-post or the short-corner (low-post) area.
When cutting into the post area as a trailer on the fast break or cutting from below, players should cut into the high post and catch the ball with a quick stop facing the basket (ball in the air, feet in the air), as shown in figure 6.14.
Figure 6.14 High-post cuts from low post, wing, or trailer position.
However, when high-post players catch the ball, they need to catch and face using RPA with a determined pivot foot (established). If the post player catches the ball facing the basket with the feet in the air, attacking options to either side are readily available. If permanent-pivot-foot (PPF) footwork is used, the high-post player can attack the preferred side with a direct drive or the nonpreferred side with the recommended crossover drive plus shooting options. When EPF footwork is chosen, players should use the following facing options (Zak attack) in the congested area of the high post (15 to 20 feet, or 4.6 to 6.1 meters, from the basket). These facing-the-basket attack moves are designed to penetrate to the basket using only one or two dribbles that result in a layin; a pass to a teammate; or a jump shot, floater, or dead-ball move closer to the basket.
Principles of passing and catching
The overall goal of passing and catching is for both the passer and the catcher to produce passes that are on time and on target. Table 3.1 presents three key passing principles and three related catching principles.
The overall goal of passing and catching is for both the passer and the catcher to produce passes that are on time and on target. Table 3.1 presents three key passing principles and three related catching principles.
Critical cue
Passes need to be on time and on target.
Players need to look for the pass before dribbling. When catching, players should follow the rim-post-action (RPA) rule: When they catch the ball within the operating area near the offensive basket, they should catch the ball and face the basket to look for the shot (rim or backboard spot), look to pass to a cutter in or near the post area or an inside post player (post), and then move the ball (action). A player's natural preference, or first instinct, however, is to dribble, which is an individual skill and thus tends to be practiced each time a player touches the ball. Overcoming this instinct requires continual emphasis on the shot and pass options.
Critical Cue
See the whole floor with big vision; look to pass first and dribble last.
Players can make good passes only when coaches teach the fundamental elements of passing, including the three passing rules:
- Footwork: Pass with the feet on the floor in most situations. Pass with a quick step for quickness and power (using the stepping foot). When possible, the catcher should catch the ball with the feet in the air. This is critical for avoiding traveling violations; when a player lands with a one-count quick stop, either foot can be used legally as a pivot (turning) foot.
- Target: Each pass must be thrown accurately to a spot target. The target is usually provided by the catcher in the form of a raised hand away from the defender. When possible, players should hold both arms up when catching—one to provide a target hand and the other to ward off the defender (figure 3.2). The catcher must give a spot target whenever possible.
Figure 3.2 Getting open: Keep both arms up.
- Speed of pass: The ball must be passed quickly, before the defender has time to react. The pass should be snappy and crisp—neither too hard nor too easy. A quick step is usually made in the direction of the pass to provide added force. The concept of passing with a ping was made popular by Fred “Tex” Winter, hall of fame coach and longtime assistant coach for the Chicago Bulls and Los Angeles Lakers. The most important part of the successful pass and catch is the second part—the catch. Most of the time, the catcher should catch with a click (getting two hands on the ball). In contrast, if the ball is thrown too hard, it slaps loudly as it is caught; when thrown too softly, no sound is heard. A proper catch can be made in one of two ways: blocking with the outside spot hand and securing the ball with the other hand, or just getting two hands on the ball as soon as possible when catching it.
Here are three more passing recommendations.
- Timing: The ball must be delivered when the receiver is open—not before or after. Pass with a ping at the right time. When learning to pass, exaggerate the follow-through.
- Deception: The passer must use deception to confuse the defender, who is reading the passer (especially the eyes) and anticipating the pass. Use ball fakes and use vision to see the whole floor (big vision) while focusing on the spot target.
- Meeting the ball:Catchers should shorten all passes (i.e., run through the ball) by meeting or coming toward the ball. (This does not apply, of course, on a breakaway, in which the player moves to the basket ahead of the defense.)
Passers should visually locate all teammates and defenders—seeing the rim of the basket when in the frontcourt and the net when in backcourt—while concentrating on the potential receiver without staring. This awareness can best be achieved by surveying the whole floor area (using big vision) with the ball in triple-threat position. When catching a pass, players should always be prepared to shoot (catch the ball and face the basket) if open and within range; if unable to shoot, they should try to pass to an open teammate before dribbling (rim-post-action).
Players must learn to give up the ball unselfishly by passing to an open player. Ball handlers can also dribble-drive and pass (i.e., penetrate and pitch)—that is, create assist opportunities by making dribble moves to the basket that allow them to pass to open teammates who can then score. When players are passing, they should choose to make the easy pass through or by the defender. Coaches should teach players not to gamble on passes; they should be clever but not fancy. Most of the time, a player making a dribble drive should use a quick stop before passing the ball at the end of the penetration or drive, staying under control (maintaining balance) and avoiding the offensive charge. This technique applies the rule of passing and stopping with the feet on the floor. John Stockton, all-star guard for Gonzaga University and the Utah Jazz, became the all-time assist leader in the NBA by making the easy pass (i.e., the simple play). His counterpart at Gonzaga, Courtney Vandersloot, a first team All-American and WNBA all-star was also an unselfish passer known for making the simple play.
Critical Cue
Make the easy pass.
Moves with either pivot foot (advanced)
These moves can be taught when either foot is used as the pivot foot (EPF) in live-ball moves. Both right-handed and left-handed players should be able to use this method to establish either foot as a pivot foot.
These moves can be taught when either foot is used as the pivot foot (EPF) in live-ball moves. Both right-handed and left-handed players should be able to use this method to establish either foot as a pivot foot.
EPF Direct Drive With the Direction Foot (Right Foot, Drive Right; Left Foot, Drive Left) This move, used to dribble-drive past a defender, consists of making the explosion step with the foot on the side to which the player is driving. The sequence is to make a quick stop facing the basket and, when driving right, use the left foot for a pivot foot and take an explosion step past the defender with the right foot; when driving left, step with the left foot and use the right foot as the pivot foot. The ball is pushed ahead on the floor on the dribble drive. The breakdown count consists of taking a long and low explosion step with the foot on the same side as the dribble drive (right foot to the right side, left foot to the left side) and pushing the ball ahead to the floor to start the dribble drive. The ball must be out of the hand before the pivot foot leaves the floor. The disadvantage of this direction-foot move is that hip contact on the defender (with the goal of winning the war of hip contact) occurs on the second step; in other words, the first step of the drive wins only the battle—not the war.
Critical Cues for EPF Moves
- Direct drive: Use the direction foot or the opposite foot.
- Crossover drive: Use the opposite foot.
EPF Direct Drive With the Opposite Foot This move is used to drive past a defender on either side by using the opposite foot to step across and shield the ball as a long and low direct drive is made. The opposite-foot drive is executed by making a quick stop facing the basket and, when driving right, stepping past the defender with a left-foot explosion step and pushing the ball ahead on the dribble drive. The breakdown count consists of taking an explosion step past the defender with the foot opposite the side of the dribble drive and pushing the ball ahead on the floor for the dribble drive (figure 5.7). This move offers the advantage of getting the head and shoulders by and making hip contact on the defender—thus winning both the battle and the war—with the first step.
Figure 5.7 Live-ball move for either pivot foot (EPF)—direct-drive move with the opposite foot: (a) to the right with the left foot, (b) to the left with the right foot.
EPF Crossover Drive Players can also learn a countermove using either foot as the pivot foot: Either fake right and then cross over left with the left pivot foot or fake left and then cross over right with the right pivot foot. This move is carried out by making a quick stop facing the basket, making a jab step and crossover with the same foot to the opposite side (swinging the ball across and close to the body), and, finally, pushing the ball ahead to the floor and starting a dribble drive. The breakdown count consists of a jab step, then a crossover step with the same foot while bringing the ball across the body, and a dribble drive started by pushing the ball ahead to the floor (figure 5.8). This is the preferred EPF move as it allows the offensive player to win the battle (get by defender's front foot) and win the war (inside hip contact) with one crossover step (or by a jab and crossover).
Figure 5.8 Live-ball move for either pivot foot (EPF)—crossover drive: (a) crossing over from right to left (jabbing right), (b) crossover drive to the left past the defender.
Facing-the-basket post play
The technique used for high-post play or short-corner play (from the low-post position) combines back-to-the-basket and facing-the-basket techniques.
The technique used for high-post play or short-corner play (from the low-post position) combines back-to-the-basket and facing-the-basket techniques. Often, the defender in the high-post area defends with a hand in denial position on the ball side. Offensive high-post players may get open by initiating contact with the lower body and providing a target hand away from the defender (figure 6.13). This contact method of getting open has the disadvantage of establishing one foot as the pivot foot when the high-post player catches and faces the basket using RPA. Using either-pivot-foot (EPF) footwork, the post player may give up his or her position in order to catch the ball with both feet in the air facing the basket.
Figure 6.13 Getting open in the high-post or the short-corner (low-post) area.
When cutting into the post area as a trailer on the fast break or cutting from below, players should cut into the high post and catch the ball with a quick stop facing the basket (ball in the air, feet in the air), as shown in figure 6.14.
Figure 6.14 High-post cuts from low post, wing, or trailer position.
However, when high-post players catch the ball, they need to catch and face using RPA with a determined pivot foot (established). If the post player catches the ball facing the basket with the feet in the air, attacking options to either side are readily available. If permanent-pivot-foot (PPF) footwork is used, the high-post player can attack the preferred side with a direct drive or the nonpreferred side with the recommended crossover drive plus shooting options. When EPF footwork is chosen, players should use the following facing options (Zak attack) in the congested area of the high post (15 to 20 feet, or 4.6 to 6.1 meters, from the basket). These facing-the-basket attack moves are designed to penetrate to the basket using only one or two dribbles that result in a layin; a pass to a teammate; or a jump shot, floater, or dead-ball move closer to the basket.
Principles of passing and catching
The overall goal of passing and catching is for both the passer and the catcher to produce passes that are on time and on target. Table 3.1 presents three key passing principles and three related catching principles.
The overall goal of passing and catching is for both the passer and the catcher to produce passes that are on time and on target. Table 3.1 presents three key passing principles and three related catching principles.
Critical cue
Passes need to be on time and on target.
Players need to look for the pass before dribbling. When catching, players should follow the rim-post-action (RPA) rule: When they catch the ball within the operating area near the offensive basket, they should catch the ball and face the basket to look for the shot (rim or backboard spot), look to pass to a cutter in or near the post area or an inside post player (post), and then move the ball (action). A player's natural preference, or first instinct, however, is to dribble, which is an individual skill and thus tends to be practiced each time a player touches the ball. Overcoming this instinct requires continual emphasis on the shot and pass options.
Critical Cue
See the whole floor with big vision; look to pass first and dribble last.
Players can make good passes only when coaches teach the fundamental elements of passing, including the three passing rules:
- Footwork: Pass with the feet on the floor in most situations. Pass with a quick step for quickness and power (using the stepping foot). When possible, the catcher should catch the ball with the feet in the air. This is critical for avoiding traveling violations; when a player lands with a one-count quick stop, either foot can be used legally as a pivot (turning) foot.
- Target: Each pass must be thrown accurately to a spot target. The target is usually provided by the catcher in the form of a raised hand away from the defender. When possible, players should hold both arms up when catching—one to provide a target hand and the other to ward off the defender (figure 3.2). The catcher must give a spot target whenever possible.
Figure 3.2 Getting open: Keep both arms up.
- Speed of pass: The ball must be passed quickly, before the defender has time to react. The pass should be snappy and crisp—neither too hard nor too easy. A quick step is usually made in the direction of the pass to provide added force. The concept of passing with a ping was made popular by Fred “Tex” Winter, hall of fame coach and longtime assistant coach for the Chicago Bulls and Los Angeles Lakers. The most important part of the successful pass and catch is the second part—the catch. Most of the time, the catcher should catch with a click (getting two hands on the ball). In contrast, if the ball is thrown too hard, it slaps loudly as it is caught; when thrown too softly, no sound is heard. A proper catch can be made in one of two ways: blocking with the outside spot hand and securing the ball with the other hand, or just getting two hands on the ball as soon as possible when catching it.
Here are three more passing recommendations.
- Timing: The ball must be delivered when the receiver is open—not before or after. Pass with a ping at the right time. When learning to pass, exaggerate the follow-through.
- Deception: The passer must use deception to confuse the defender, who is reading the passer (especially the eyes) and anticipating the pass. Use ball fakes and use vision to see the whole floor (big vision) while focusing on the spot target.
- Meeting the ball:Catchers should shorten all passes (i.e., run through the ball) by meeting or coming toward the ball. (This does not apply, of course, on a breakaway, in which the player moves to the basket ahead of the defense.)
Passers should visually locate all teammates and defenders—seeing the rim of the basket when in the frontcourt and the net when in backcourt—while concentrating on the potential receiver without staring. This awareness can best be achieved by surveying the whole floor area (using big vision) with the ball in triple-threat position. When catching a pass, players should always be prepared to shoot (catch the ball and face the basket) if open and within range; if unable to shoot, they should try to pass to an open teammate before dribbling (rim-post-action).
Players must learn to give up the ball unselfishly by passing to an open player. Ball handlers can also dribble-drive and pass (i.e., penetrate and pitch)—that is, create assist opportunities by making dribble moves to the basket that allow them to pass to open teammates who can then score. When players are passing, they should choose to make the easy pass through or by the defender. Coaches should teach players not to gamble on passes; they should be clever but not fancy. Most of the time, a player making a dribble drive should use a quick stop before passing the ball at the end of the penetration or drive, staying under control (maintaining balance) and avoiding the offensive charge. This technique applies the rule of passing and stopping with the feet on the floor. John Stockton, all-star guard for Gonzaga University and the Utah Jazz, became the all-time assist leader in the NBA by making the easy pass (i.e., the simple play). His counterpart at Gonzaga, Courtney Vandersloot, a first team All-American and WNBA all-star was also an unselfish passer known for making the simple play.
Critical Cue
Make the easy pass.
Moves with either pivot foot (advanced)
These moves can be taught when either foot is used as the pivot foot (EPF) in live-ball moves. Both right-handed and left-handed players should be able to use this method to establish either foot as a pivot foot.
These moves can be taught when either foot is used as the pivot foot (EPF) in live-ball moves. Both right-handed and left-handed players should be able to use this method to establish either foot as a pivot foot.
EPF Direct Drive With the Direction Foot (Right Foot, Drive Right; Left Foot, Drive Left) This move, used to dribble-drive past a defender, consists of making the explosion step with the foot on the side to which the player is driving. The sequence is to make a quick stop facing the basket and, when driving right, use the left foot for a pivot foot and take an explosion step past the defender with the right foot; when driving left, step with the left foot and use the right foot as the pivot foot. The ball is pushed ahead on the floor on the dribble drive. The breakdown count consists of taking a long and low explosion step with the foot on the same side as the dribble drive (right foot to the right side, left foot to the left side) and pushing the ball ahead to the floor to start the dribble drive. The ball must be out of the hand before the pivot foot leaves the floor. The disadvantage of this direction-foot move is that hip contact on the defender (with the goal of winning the war of hip contact) occurs on the second step; in other words, the first step of the drive wins only the battle—not the war.
Critical Cues for EPF Moves
- Direct drive: Use the direction foot or the opposite foot.
- Crossover drive: Use the opposite foot.
EPF Direct Drive With the Opposite Foot This move is used to drive past a defender on either side by using the opposite foot to step across and shield the ball as a long and low direct drive is made. The opposite-foot drive is executed by making a quick stop facing the basket and, when driving right, stepping past the defender with a left-foot explosion step and pushing the ball ahead on the dribble drive. The breakdown count consists of taking an explosion step past the defender with the foot opposite the side of the dribble drive and pushing the ball ahead on the floor for the dribble drive (figure 5.7). This move offers the advantage of getting the head and shoulders by and making hip contact on the defender—thus winning both the battle and the war—with the first step.
Figure 5.7 Live-ball move for either pivot foot (EPF)—direct-drive move with the opposite foot: (a) to the right with the left foot, (b) to the left with the right foot.
EPF Crossover Drive Players can also learn a countermove using either foot as the pivot foot: Either fake right and then cross over left with the left pivot foot or fake left and then cross over right with the right pivot foot. This move is carried out by making a quick stop facing the basket, making a jab step and crossover with the same foot to the opposite side (swinging the ball across and close to the body), and, finally, pushing the ball ahead to the floor and starting a dribble drive. The breakdown count consists of a jab step, then a crossover step with the same foot while bringing the ball across the body, and a dribble drive started by pushing the ball ahead to the floor (figure 5.8). This is the preferred EPF move as it allows the offensive player to win the battle (get by defender's front foot) and win the war (inside hip contact) with one crossover step (or by a jab and crossover).
Figure 5.8 Live-ball move for either pivot foot (EPF)—crossover drive: (a) crossing over from right to left (jabbing right), (b) crossover drive to the left past the defender.
Facing-the-basket post play
The technique used for high-post play or short-corner play (from the low-post position) combines back-to-the-basket and facing-the-basket techniques.
The technique used for high-post play or short-corner play (from the low-post position) combines back-to-the-basket and facing-the-basket techniques. Often, the defender in the high-post area defends with a hand in denial position on the ball side. Offensive high-post players may get open by initiating contact with the lower body and providing a target hand away from the defender (figure 6.13). This contact method of getting open has the disadvantage of establishing one foot as the pivot foot when the high-post player catches and faces the basket using RPA. Using either-pivot-foot (EPF) footwork, the post player may give up his or her position in order to catch the ball with both feet in the air facing the basket.
Figure 6.13 Getting open in the high-post or the short-corner (low-post) area.
When cutting into the post area as a trailer on the fast break or cutting from below, players should cut into the high post and catch the ball with a quick stop facing the basket (ball in the air, feet in the air), as shown in figure 6.14.
Figure 6.14 High-post cuts from low post, wing, or trailer position.
However, when high-post players catch the ball, they need to catch and face using RPA with a determined pivot foot (established). If the post player catches the ball facing the basket with the feet in the air, attacking options to either side are readily available. If permanent-pivot-foot (PPF) footwork is used, the high-post player can attack the preferred side with a direct drive or the nonpreferred side with the recommended crossover drive plus shooting options. When EPF footwork is chosen, players should use the following facing options (Zak attack) in the congested area of the high post (15 to 20 feet, or 4.6 to 6.1 meters, from the basket). These facing-the-basket attack moves are designed to penetrate to the basket using only one or two dribbles that result in a layin; a pass to a teammate; or a jump shot, floater, or dead-ball move closer to the basket.
Principles of passing and catching
The overall goal of passing and catching is for both the passer and the catcher to produce passes that are on time and on target. Table 3.1 presents three key passing principles and three related catching principles.
The overall goal of passing and catching is for both the passer and the catcher to produce passes that are on time and on target. Table 3.1 presents three key passing principles and three related catching principles.
Critical cue
Passes need to be on time and on target.
Players need to look for the pass before dribbling. When catching, players should follow the rim-post-action (RPA) rule: When they catch the ball within the operating area near the offensive basket, they should catch the ball and face the basket to look for the shot (rim or backboard spot), look to pass to a cutter in or near the post area or an inside post player (post), and then move the ball (action). A player's natural preference, or first instinct, however, is to dribble, which is an individual skill and thus tends to be practiced each time a player touches the ball. Overcoming this instinct requires continual emphasis on the shot and pass options.
Critical Cue
See the whole floor with big vision; look to pass first and dribble last.
Players can make good passes only when coaches teach the fundamental elements of passing, including the three passing rules:
- Footwork: Pass with the feet on the floor in most situations. Pass with a quick step for quickness and power (using the stepping foot). When possible, the catcher should catch the ball with the feet in the air. This is critical for avoiding traveling violations; when a player lands with a one-count quick stop, either foot can be used legally as a pivot (turning) foot.
- Target: Each pass must be thrown accurately to a spot target. The target is usually provided by the catcher in the form of a raised hand away from the defender. When possible, players should hold both arms up when catching—one to provide a target hand and the other to ward off the defender (figure 3.2). The catcher must give a spot target whenever possible.
Figure 3.2 Getting open: Keep both arms up.
- Speed of pass: The ball must be passed quickly, before the defender has time to react. The pass should be snappy and crisp—neither too hard nor too easy. A quick step is usually made in the direction of the pass to provide added force. The concept of passing with a ping was made popular by Fred “Tex” Winter, hall of fame coach and longtime assistant coach for the Chicago Bulls and Los Angeles Lakers. The most important part of the successful pass and catch is the second part—the catch. Most of the time, the catcher should catch with a click (getting two hands on the ball). In contrast, if the ball is thrown too hard, it slaps loudly as it is caught; when thrown too softly, no sound is heard. A proper catch can be made in one of two ways: blocking with the outside spot hand and securing the ball with the other hand, or just getting two hands on the ball as soon as possible when catching it.
Here are three more passing recommendations.
- Timing: The ball must be delivered when the receiver is open—not before or after. Pass with a ping at the right time. When learning to pass, exaggerate the follow-through.
- Deception: The passer must use deception to confuse the defender, who is reading the passer (especially the eyes) and anticipating the pass. Use ball fakes and use vision to see the whole floor (big vision) while focusing on the spot target.
- Meeting the ball:Catchers should shorten all passes (i.e., run through the ball) by meeting or coming toward the ball. (This does not apply, of course, on a breakaway, in which the player moves to the basket ahead of the defense.)
Passers should visually locate all teammates and defenders—seeing the rim of the basket when in the frontcourt and the net when in backcourt—while concentrating on the potential receiver without staring. This awareness can best be achieved by surveying the whole floor area (using big vision) with the ball in triple-threat position. When catching a pass, players should always be prepared to shoot (catch the ball and face the basket) if open and within range; if unable to shoot, they should try to pass to an open teammate before dribbling (rim-post-action).
Players must learn to give up the ball unselfishly by passing to an open player. Ball handlers can also dribble-drive and pass (i.e., penetrate and pitch)—that is, create assist opportunities by making dribble moves to the basket that allow them to pass to open teammates who can then score. When players are passing, they should choose to make the easy pass through or by the defender. Coaches should teach players not to gamble on passes; they should be clever but not fancy. Most of the time, a player making a dribble drive should use a quick stop before passing the ball at the end of the penetration or drive, staying under control (maintaining balance) and avoiding the offensive charge. This technique applies the rule of passing and stopping with the feet on the floor. John Stockton, all-star guard for Gonzaga University and the Utah Jazz, became the all-time assist leader in the NBA by making the easy pass (i.e., the simple play). His counterpart at Gonzaga, Courtney Vandersloot, a first team All-American and WNBA all-star was also an unselfish passer known for making the simple play.
Critical Cue
Make the easy pass.
Moves with either pivot foot (advanced)
These moves can be taught when either foot is used as the pivot foot (EPF) in live-ball moves. Both right-handed and left-handed players should be able to use this method to establish either foot as a pivot foot.
These moves can be taught when either foot is used as the pivot foot (EPF) in live-ball moves. Both right-handed and left-handed players should be able to use this method to establish either foot as a pivot foot.
EPF Direct Drive With the Direction Foot (Right Foot, Drive Right; Left Foot, Drive Left) This move, used to dribble-drive past a defender, consists of making the explosion step with the foot on the side to which the player is driving. The sequence is to make a quick stop facing the basket and, when driving right, use the left foot for a pivot foot and take an explosion step past the defender with the right foot; when driving left, step with the left foot and use the right foot as the pivot foot. The ball is pushed ahead on the floor on the dribble drive. The breakdown count consists of taking a long and low explosion step with the foot on the same side as the dribble drive (right foot to the right side, left foot to the left side) and pushing the ball ahead to the floor to start the dribble drive. The ball must be out of the hand before the pivot foot leaves the floor. The disadvantage of this direction-foot move is that hip contact on the defender (with the goal of winning the war of hip contact) occurs on the second step; in other words, the first step of the drive wins only the battle—not the war.
Critical Cues for EPF Moves
- Direct drive: Use the direction foot or the opposite foot.
- Crossover drive: Use the opposite foot.
EPF Direct Drive With the Opposite Foot This move is used to drive past a defender on either side by using the opposite foot to step across and shield the ball as a long and low direct drive is made. The opposite-foot drive is executed by making a quick stop facing the basket and, when driving right, stepping past the defender with a left-foot explosion step and pushing the ball ahead on the dribble drive. The breakdown count consists of taking an explosion step past the defender with the foot opposite the side of the dribble drive and pushing the ball ahead on the floor for the dribble drive (figure 5.7). This move offers the advantage of getting the head and shoulders by and making hip contact on the defender—thus winning both the battle and the war—with the first step.
Figure 5.7 Live-ball move for either pivot foot (EPF)—direct-drive move with the opposite foot: (a) to the right with the left foot, (b) to the left with the right foot.
EPF Crossover Drive Players can also learn a countermove using either foot as the pivot foot: Either fake right and then cross over left with the left pivot foot or fake left and then cross over right with the right pivot foot. This move is carried out by making a quick stop facing the basket, making a jab step and crossover with the same foot to the opposite side (swinging the ball across and close to the body), and, finally, pushing the ball ahead to the floor and starting a dribble drive. The breakdown count consists of a jab step, then a crossover step with the same foot while bringing the ball across the body, and a dribble drive started by pushing the ball ahead to the floor (figure 5.8). This is the preferred EPF move as it allows the offensive player to win the battle (get by defender's front foot) and win the war (inside hip contact) with one crossover step (or by a jab and crossover).
Figure 5.8 Live-ball move for either pivot foot (EPF)—crossover drive: (a) crossing over from right to left (jabbing right), (b) crossover drive to the left past the defender.
Facing-the-basket post play
The technique used for high-post play or short-corner play (from the low-post position) combines back-to-the-basket and facing-the-basket techniques.
The technique used for high-post play or short-corner play (from the low-post position) combines back-to-the-basket and facing-the-basket techniques. Often, the defender in the high-post area defends with a hand in denial position on the ball side. Offensive high-post players may get open by initiating contact with the lower body and providing a target hand away from the defender (figure 6.13). This contact method of getting open has the disadvantage of establishing one foot as the pivot foot when the high-post player catches and faces the basket using RPA. Using either-pivot-foot (EPF) footwork, the post player may give up his or her position in order to catch the ball with both feet in the air facing the basket.
Figure 6.13 Getting open in the high-post or the short-corner (low-post) area.
When cutting into the post area as a trailer on the fast break or cutting from below, players should cut into the high post and catch the ball with a quick stop facing the basket (ball in the air, feet in the air), as shown in figure 6.14.
Figure 6.14 High-post cuts from low post, wing, or trailer position.
However, when high-post players catch the ball, they need to catch and face using RPA with a determined pivot foot (established). If the post player catches the ball facing the basket with the feet in the air, attacking options to either side are readily available. If permanent-pivot-foot (PPF) footwork is used, the high-post player can attack the preferred side with a direct drive or the nonpreferred side with the recommended crossover drive plus shooting options. When EPF footwork is chosen, players should use the following facing options (Zak attack) in the congested area of the high post (15 to 20 feet, or 4.6 to 6.1 meters, from the basket). These facing-the-basket attack moves are designed to penetrate to the basket using only one or two dribbles that result in a layin; a pass to a teammate; or a jump shot, floater, or dead-ball move closer to the basket.
Principles of passing and catching
The overall goal of passing and catching is for both the passer and the catcher to produce passes that are on time and on target. Table 3.1 presents three key passing principles and three related catching principles.
The overall goal of passing and catching is for both the passer and the catcher to produce passes that are on time and on target. Table 3.1 presents three key passing principles and three related catching principles.
Critical cue
Passes need to be on time and on target.
Players need to look for the pass before dribbling. When catching, players should follow the rim-post-action (RPA) rule: When they catch the ball within the operating area near the offensive basket, they should catch the ball and face the basket to look for the shot (rim or backboard spot), look to pass to a cutter in or near the post area or an inside post player (post), and then move the ball (action). A player's natural preference, or first instinct, however, is to dribble, which is an individual skill and thus tends to be practiced each time a player touches the ball. Overcoming this instinct requires continual emphasis on the shot and pass options.
Critical Cue
See the whole floor with big vision; look to pass first and dribble last.
Players can make good passes only when coaches teach the fundamental elements of passing, including the three passing rules:
- Footwork: Pass with the feet on the floor in most situations. Pass with a quick step for quickness and power (using the stepping foot). When possible, the catcher should catch the ball with the feet in the air. This is critical for avoiding traveling violations; when a player lands with a one-count quick stop, either foot can be used legally as a pivot (turning) foot.
- Target: Each pass must be thrown accurately to a spot target. The target is usually provided by the catcher in the form of a raised hand away from the defender. When possible, players should hold both arms up when catching—one to provide a target hand and the other to ward off the defender (figure 3.2). The catcher must give a spot target whenever possible.
Figure 3.2 Getting open: Keep both arms up.
- Speed of pass: The ball must be passed quickly, before the defender has time to react. The pass should be snappy and crisp—neither too hard nor too easy. A quick step is usually made in the direction of the pass to provide added force. The concept of passing with a ping was made popular by Fred “Tex” Winter, hall of fame coach and longtime assistant coach for the Chicago Bulls and Los Angeles Lakers. The most important part of the successful pass and catch is the second part—the catch. Most of the time, the catcher should catch with a click (getting two hands on the ball). In contrast, if the ball is thrown too hard, it slaps loudly as it is caught; when thrown too softly, no sound is heard. A proper catch can be made in one of two ways: blocking with the outside spot hand and securing the ball with the other hand, or just getting two hands on the ball as soon as possible when catching it.
Here are three more passing recommendations.
- Timing: The ball must be delivered when the receiver is open—not before or after. Pass with a ping at the right time. When learning to pass, exaggerate the follow-through.
- Deception: The passer must use deception to confuse the defender, who is reading the passer (especially the eyes) and anticipating the pass. Use ball fakes and use vision to see the whole floor (big vision) while focusing on the spot target.
- Meeting the ball:Catchers should shorten all passes (i.e., run through the ball) by meeting or coming toward the ball. (This does not apply, of course, on a breakaway, in which the player moves to the basket ahead of the defense.)
Passers should visually locate all teammates and defenders—seeing the rim of the basket when in the frontcourt and the net when in backcourt—while concentrating on the potential receiver without staring. This awareness can best be achieved by surveying the whole floor area (using big vision) with the ball in triple-threat position. When catching a pass, players should always be prepared to shoot (catch the ball and face the basket) if open and within range; if unable to shoot, they should try to pass to an open teammate before dribbling (rim-post-action).
Players must learn to give up the ball unselfishly by passing to an open player. Ball handlers can also dribble-drive and pass (i.e., penetrate and pitch)—that is, create assist opportunities by making dribble moves to the basket that allow them to pass to open teammates who can then score. When players are passing, they should choose to make the easy pass through or by the defender. Coaches should teach players not to gamble on passes; they should be clever but not fancy. Most of the time, a player making a dribble drive should use a quick stop before passing the ball at the end of the penetration or drive, staying under control (maintaining balance) and avoiding the offensive charge. This technique applies the rule of passing and stopping with the feet on the floor. John Stockton, all-star guard for Gonzaga University and the Utah Jazz, became the all-time assist leader in the NBA by making the easy pass (i.e., the simple play). His counterpart at Gonzaga, Courtney Vandersloot, a first team All-American and WNBA all-star was also an unselfish passer known for making the simple play.
Critical Cue
Make the easy pass.
Moves with either pivot foot (advanced)
These moves can be taught when either foot is used as the pivot foot (EPF) in live-ball moves. Both right-handed and left-handed players should be able to use this method to establish either foot as a pivot foot.
These moves can be taught when either foot is used as the pivot foot (EPF) in live-ball moves. Both right-handed and left-handed players should be able to use this method to establish either foot as a pivot foot.
EPF Direct Drive With the Direction Foot (Right Foot, Drive Right; Left Foot, Drive Left) This move, used to dribble-drive past a defender, consists of making the explosion step with the foot on the side to which the player is driving. The sequence is to make a quick stop facing the basket and, when driving right, use the left foot for a pivot foot and take an explosion step past the defender with the right foot; when driving left, step with the left foot and use the right foot as the pivot foot. The ball is pushed ahead on the floor on the dribble drive. The breakdown count consists of taking a long and low explosion step with the foot on the same side as the dribble drive (right foot to the right side, left foot to the left side) and pushing the ball ahead to the floor to start the dribble drive. The ball must be out of the hand before the pivot foot leaves the floor. The disadvantage of this direction-foot move is that hip contact on the defender (with the goal of winning the war of hip contact) occurs on the second step; in other words, the first step of the drive wins only the battle—not the war.
Critical Cues for EPF Moves
- Direct drive: Use the direction foot or the opposite foot.
- Crossover drive: Use the opposite foot.
EPF Direct Drive With the Opposite Foot This move is used to drive past a defender on either side by using the opposite foot to step across and shield the ball as a long and low direct drive is made. The opposite-foot drive is executed by making a quick stop facing the basket and, when driving right, stepping past the defender with a left-foot explosion step and pushing the ball ahead on the dribble drive. The breakdown count consists of taking an explosion step past the defender with the foot opposite the side of the dribble drive and pushing the ball ahead on the floor for the dribble drive (figure 5.7). This move offers the advantage of getting the head and shoulders by and making hip contact on the defender—thus winning both the battle and the war—with the first step.
Figure 5.7 Live-ball move for either pivot foot (EPF)—direct-drive move with the opposite foot: (a) to the right with the left foot, (b) to the left with the right foot.
EPF Crossover Drive Players can also learn a countermove using either foot as the pivot foot: Either fake right and then cross over left with the left pivot foot or fake left and then cross over right with the right pivot foot. This move is carried out by making a quick stop facing the basket, making a jab step and crossover with the same foot to the opposite side (swinging the ball across and close to the body), and, finally, pushing the ball ahead to the floor and starting a dribble drive. The breakdown count consists of a jab step, then a crossover step with the same foot while bringing the ball across the body, and a dribble drive started by pushing the ball ahead to the floor (figure 5.8). This is the preferred EPF move as it allows the offensive player to win the battle (get by defender's front foot) and win the war (inside hip contact) with one crossover step (or by a jab and crossover).
Figure 5.8 Live-ball move for either pivot foot (EPF)—crossover drive: (a) crossing over from right to left (jabbing right), (b) crossover drive to the left past the defender.
Facing-the-basket post play
The technique used for high-post play or short-corner play (from the low-post position) combines back-to-the-basket and facing-the-basket techniques.
The technique used for high-post play or short-corner play (from the low-post position) combines back-to-the-basket and facing-the-basket techniques. Often, the defender in the high-post area defends with a hand in denial position on the ball side. Offensive high-post players may get open by initiating contact with the lower body and providing a target hand away from the defender (figure 6.13). This contact method of getting open has the disadvantage of establishing one foot as the pivot foot when the high-post player catches and faces the basket using RPA. Using either-pivot-foot (EPF) footwork, the post player may give up his or her position in order to catch the ball with both feet in the air facing the basket.
Figure 6.13 Getting open in the high-post or the short-corner (low-post) area.
When cutting into the post area as a trailer on the fast break or cutting from below, players should cut into the high post and catch the ball with a quick stop facing the basket (ball in the air, feet in the air), as shown in figure 6.14.
Figure 6.14 High-post cuts from low post, wing, or trailer position.
However, when high-post players catch the ball, they need to catch and face using RPA with a determined pivot foot (established). If the post player catches the ball facing the basket with the feet in the air, attacking options to either side are readily available. If permanent-pivot-foot (PPF) footwork is used, the high-post player can attack the preferred side with a direct drive or the nonpreferred side with the recommended crossover drive plus shooting options. When EPF footwork is chosen, players should use the following facing options (Zak attack) in the congested area of the high post (15 to 20 feet, or 4.6 to 6.1 meters, from the basket). These facing-the-basket attack moves are designed to penetrate to the basket using only one or two dribbles that result in a layin; a pass to a teammate; or a jump shot, floater, or dead-ball move closer to the basket.
Principles of passing and catching
The overall goal of passing and catching is for both the passer and the catcher to produce passes that are on time and on target. Table 3.1 presents three key passing principles and three related catching principles.
The overall goal of passing and catching is for both the passer and the catcher to produce passes that are on time and on target. Table 3.1 presents three key passing principles and three related catching principles.
Critical cue
Passes need to be on time and on target.
Players need to look for the pass before dribbling. When catching, players should follow the rim-post-action (RPA) rule: When they catch the ball within the operating area near the offensive basket, they should catch the ball and face the basket to look for the shot (rim or backboard spot), look to pass to a cutter in or near the post area or an inside post player (post), and then move the ball (action). A player's natural preference, or first instinct, however, is to dribble, which is an individual skill and thus tends to be practiced each time a player touches the ball. Overcoming this instinct requires continual emphasis on the shot and pass options.
Critical Cue
See the whole floor with big vision; look to pass first and dribble last.
Players can make good passes only when coaches teach the fundamental elements of passing, including the three passing rules:
- Footwork: Pass with the feet on the floor in most situations. Pass with a quick step for quickness and power (using the stepping foot). When possible, the catcher should catch the ball with the feet in the air. This is critical for avoiding traveling violations; when a player lands with a one-count quick stop, either foot can be used legally as a pivot (turning) foot.
- Target: Each pass must be thrown accurately to a spot target. The target is usually provided by the catcher in the form of a raised hand away from the defender. When possible, players should hold both arms up when catching—one to provide a target hand and the other to ward off the defender (figure 3.2). The catcher must give a spot target whenever possible.
Figure 3.2 Getting open: Keep both arms up.
- Speed of pass: The ball must be passed quickly, before the defender has time to react. The pass should be snappy and crisp—neither too hard nor too easy. A quick step is usually made in the direction of the pass to provide added force. The concept of passing with a ping was made popular by Fred “Tex” Winter, hall of fame coach and longtime assistant coach for the Chicago Bulls and Los Angeles Lakers. The most important part of the successful pass and catch is the second part—the catch. Most of the time, the catcher should catch with a click (getting two hands on the ball). In contrast, if the ball is thrown too hard, it slaps loudly as it is caught; when thrown too softly, no sound is heard. A proper catch can be made in one of two ways: blocking with the outside spot hand and securing the ball with the other hand, or just getting two hands on the ball as soon as possible when catching it.
Here are three more passing recommendations.
- Timing: The ball must be delivered when the receiver is open—not before or after. Pass with a ping at the right time. When learning to pass, exaggerate the follow-through.
- Deception: The passer must use deception to confuse the defender, who is reading the passer (especially the eyes) and anticipating the pass. Use ball fakes and use vision to see the whole floor (big vision) while focusing on the spot target.
- Meeting the ball:Catchers should shorten all passes (i.e., run through the ball) by meeting or coming toward the ball. (This does not apply, of course, on a breakaway, in which the player moves to the basket ahead of the defense.)
Passers should visually locate all teammates and defenders—seeing the rim of the basket when in the frontcourt and the net when in backcourt—while concentrating on the potential receiver without staring. This awareness can best be achieved by surveying the whole floor area (using big vision) with the ball in triple-threat position. When catching a pass, players should always be prepared to shoot (catch the ball and face the basket) if open and within range; if unable to shoot, they should try to pass to an open teammate before dribbling (rim-post-action).
Players must learn to give up the ball unselfishly by passing to an open player. Ball handlers can also dribble-drive and pass (i.e., penetrate and pitch)—that is, create assist opportunities by making dribble moves to the basket that allow them to pass to open teammates who can then score. When players are passing, they should choose to make the easy pass through or by the defender. Coaches should teach players not to gamble on passes; they should be clever but not fancy. Most of the time, a player making a dribble drive should use a quick stop before passing the ball at the end of the penetration or drive, staying under control (maintaining balance) and avoiding the offensive charge. This technique applies the rule of passing and stopping with the feet on the floor. John Stockton, all-star guard for Gonzaga University and the Utah Jazz, became the all-time assist leader in the NBA by making the easy pass (i.e., the simple play). His counterpart at Gonzaga, Courtney Vandersloot, a first team All-American and WNBA all-star was also an unselfish passer known for making the simple play.
Critical Cue
Make the easy pass.
Moves with either pivot foot (advanced)
These moves can be taught when either foot is used as the pivot foot (EPF) in live-ball moves. Both right-handed and left-handed players should be able to use this method to establish either foot as a pivot foot.
These moves can be taught when either foot is used as the pivot foot (EPF) in live-ball moves. Both right-handed and left-handed players should be able to use this method to establish either foot as a pivot foot.
EPF Direct Drive With the Direction Foot (Right Foot, Drive Right; Left Foot, Drive Left) This move, used to dribble-drive past a defender, consists of making the explosion step with the foot on the side to which the player is driving. The sequence is to make a quick stop facing the basket and, when driving right, use the left foot for a pivot foot and take an explosion step past the defender with the right foot; when driving left, step with the left foot and use the right foot as the pivot foot. The ball is pushed ahead on the floor on the dribble drive. The breakdown count consists of taking a long and low explosion step with the foot on the same side as the dribble drive (right foot to the right side, left foot to the left side) and pushing the ball ahead to the floor to start the dribble drive. The ball must be out of the hand before the pivot foot leaves the floor. The disadvantage of this direction-foot move is that hip contact on the defender (with the goal of winning the war of hip contact) occurs on the second step; in other words, the first step of the drive wins only the battle—not the war.
Critical Cues for EPF Moves
- Direct drive: Use the direction foot or the opposite foot.
- Crossover drive: Use the opposite foot.
EPF Direct Drive With the Opposite Foot This move is used to drive past a defender on either side by using the opposite foot to step across and shield the ball as a long and low direct drive is made. The opposite-foot drive is executed by making a quick stop facing the basket and, when driving right, stepping past the defender with a left-foot explosion step and pushing the ball ahead on the dribble drive. The breakdown count consists of taking an explosion step past the defender with the foot opposite the side of the dribble drive and pushing the ball ahead on the floor for the dribble drive (figure 5.7). This move offers the advantage of getting the head and shoulders by and making hip contact on the defender—thus winning both the battle and the war—with the first step.
Figure 5.7 Live-ball move for either pivot foot (EPF)—direct-drive move with the opposite foot: (a) to the right with the left foot, (b) to the left with the right foot.
EPF Crossover Drive Players can also learn a countermove using either foot as the pivot foot: Either fake right and then cross over left with the left pivot foot or fake left and then cross over right with the right pivot foot. This move is carried out by making a quick stop facing the basket, making a jab step and crossover with the same foot to the opposite side (swinging the ball across and close to the body), and, finally, pushing the ball ahead to the floor and starting a dribble drive. The breakdown count consists of a jab step, then a crossover step with the same foot while bringing the ball across the body, and a dribble drive started by pushing the ball ahead to the floor (figure 5.8). This is the preferred EPF move as it allows the offensive player to win the battle (get by defender's front foot) and win the war (inside hip contact) with one crossover step (or by a jab and crossover).
Figure 5.8 Live-ball move for either pivot foot (EPF)—crossover drive: (a) crossing over from right to left (jabbing right), (b) crossover drive to the left past the defender.
Facing-the-basket post play
The technique used for high-post play or short-corner play (from the low-post position) combines back-to-the-basket and facing-the-basket techniques.
The technique used for high-post play or short-corner play (from the low-post position) combines back-to-the-basket and facing-the-basket techniques. Often, the defender in the high-post area defends with a hand in denial position on the ball side. Offensive high-post players may get open by initiating contact with the lower body and providing a target hand away from the defender (figure 6.13). This contact method of getting open has the disadvantage of establishing one foot as the pivot foot when the high-post player catches and faces the basket using RPA. Using either-pivot-foot (EPF) footwork, the post player may give up his or her position in order to catch the ball with both feet in the air facing the basket.
Figure 6.13 Getting open in the high-post or the short-corner (low-post) area.
When cutting into the post area as a trailer on the fast break or cutting from below, players should cut into the high post and catch the ball with a quick stop facing the basket (ball in the air, feet in the air), as shown in figure 6.14.
Figure 6.14 High-post cuts from low post, wing, or trailer position.
However, when high-post players catch the ball, they need to catch and face using RPA with a determined pivot foot (established). If the post player catches the ball facing the basket with the feet in the air, attacking options to either side are readily available. If permanent-pivot-foot (PPF) footwork is used, the high-post player can attack the preferred side with a direct drive or the nonpreferred side with the recommended crossover drive plus shooting options. When EPF footwork is chosen, players should use the following facing options (Zak attack) in the congested area of the high post (15 to 20 feet, or 4.6 to 6.1 meters, from the basket). These facing-the-basket attack moves are designed to penetrate to the basket using only one or two dribbles that result in a layin; a pass to a teammate; or a jump shot, floater, or dead-ball move closer to the basket.
Principles of passing and catching
The overall goal of passing and catching is for both the passer and the catcher to produce passes that are on time and on target. Table 3.1 presents three key passing principles and three related catching principles.
The overall goal of passing and catching is for both the passer and the catcher to produce passes that are on time and on target. Table 3.1 presents three key passing principles and three related catching principles.
Critical cue
Passes need to be on time and on target.
Players need to look for the pass before dribbling. When catching, players should follow the rim-post-action (RPA) rule: When they catch the ball within the operating area near the offensive basket, they should catch the ball and face the basket to look for the shot (rim or backboard spot), look to pass to a cutter in or near the post area or an inside post player (post), and then move the ball (action). A player's natural preference, or first instinct, however, is to dribble, which is an individual skill and thus tends to be practiced each time a player touches the ball. Overcoming this instinct requires continual emphasis on the shot and pass options.
Critical Cue
See the whole floor with big vision; look to pass first and dribble last.
Players can make good passes only when coaches teach the fundamental elements of passing, including the three passing rules:
- Footwork: Pass with the feet on the floor in most situations. Pass with a quick step for quickness and power (using the stepping foot). When possible, the catcher should catch the ball with the feet in the air. This is critical for avoiding traveling violations; when a player lands with a one-count quick stop, either foot can be used legally as a pivot (turning) foot.
- Target: Each pass must be thrown accurately to a spot target. The target is usually provided by the catcher in the form of a raised hand away from the defender. When possible, players should hold both arms up when catching—one to provide a target hand and the other to ward off the defender (figure 3.2). The catcher must give a spot target whenever possible.
Figure 3.2 Getting open: Keep both arms up.
- Speed of pass: The ball must be passed quickly, before the defender has time to react. The pass should be snappy and crisp—neither too hard nor too easy. A quick step is usually made in the direction of the pass to provide added force. The concept of passing with a ping was made popular by Fred “Tex” Winter, hall of fame coach and longtime assistant coach for the Chicago Bulls and Los Angeles Lakers. The most important part of the successful pass and catch is the second part—the catch. Most of the time, the catcher should catch with a click (getting two hands on the ball). In contrast, if the ball is thrown too hard, it slaps loudly as it is caught; when thrown too softly, no sound is heard. A proper catch can be made in one of two ways: blocking with the outside spot hand and securing the ball with the other hand, or just getting two hands on the ball as soon as possible when catching it.
Here are three more passing recommendations.
- Timing: The ball must be delivered when the receiver is open—not before or after. Pass with a ping at the right time. When learning to pass, exaggerate the follow-through.
- Deception: The passer must use deception to confuse the defender, who is reading the passer (especially the eyes) and anticipating the pass. Use ball fakes and use vision to see the whole floor (big vision) while focusing on the spot target.
- Meeting the ball:Catchers should shorten all passes (i.e., run through the ball) by meeting or coming toward the ball. (This does not apply, of course, on a breakaway, in which the player moves to the basket ahead of the defense.)
Passers should visually locate all teammates and defenders—seeing the rim of the basket when in the frontcourt and the net when in backcourt—while concentrating on the potential receiver without staring. This awareness can best be achieved by surveying the whole floor area (using big vision) with the ball in triple-threat position. When catching a pass, players should always be prepared to shoot (catch the ball and face the basket) if open and within range; if unable to shoot, they should try to pass to an open teammate before dribbling (rim-post-action).
Players must learn to give up the ball unselfishly by passing to an open player. Ball handlers can also dribble-drive and pass (i.e., penetrate and pitch)—that is, create assist opportunities by making dribble moves to the basket that allow them to pass to open teammates who can then score. When players are passing, they should choose to make the easy pass through or by the defender. Coaches should teach players not to gamble on passes; they should be clever but not fancy. Most of the time, a player making a dribble drive should use a quick stop before passing the ball at the end of the penetration or drive, staying under control (maintaining balance) and avoiding the offensive charge. This technique applies the rule of passing and stopping with the feet on the floor. John Stockton, all-star guard for Gonzaga University and the Utah Jazz, became the all-time assist leader in the NBA by making the easy pass (i.e., the simple play). His counterpart at Gonzaga, Courtney Vandersloot, a first team All-American and WNBA all-star was also an unselfish passer known for making the simple play.
Critical Cue
Make the easy pass.
Moves with either pivot foot (advanced)
These moves can be taught when either foot is used as the pivot foot (EPF) in live-ball moves. Both right-handed and left-handed players should be able to use this method to establish either foot as a pivot foot.
These moves can be taught when either foot is used as the pivot foot (EPF) in live-ball moves. Both right-handed and left-handed players should be able to use this method to establish either foot as a pivot foot.
EPF Direct Drive With the Direction Foot (Right Foot, Drive Right; Left Foot, Drive Left) This move, used to dribble-drive past a defender, consists of making the explosion step with the foot on the side to which the player is driving. The sequence is to make a quick stop facing the basket and, when driving right, use the left foot for a pivot foot and take an explosion step past the defender with the right foot; when driving left, step with the left foot and use the right foot as the pivot foot. The ball is pushed ahead on the floor on the dribble drive. The breakdown count consists of taking a long and low explosion step with the foot on the same side as the dribble drive (right foot to the right side, left foot to the left side) and pushing the ball ahead to the floor to start the dribble drive. The ball must be out of the hand before the pivot foot leaves the floor. The disadvantage of this direction-foot move is that hip contact on the defender (with the goal of winning the war of hip contact) occurs on the second step; in other words, the first step of the drive wins only the battle—not the war.
Critical Cues for EPF Moves
- Direct drive: Use the direction foot or the opposite foot.
- Crossover drive: Use the opposite foot.
EPF Direct Drive With the Opposite Foot This move is used to drive past a defender on either side by using the opposite foot to step across and shield the ball as a long and low direct drive is made. The opposite-foot drive is executed by making a quick stop facing the basket and, when driving right, stepping past the defender with a left-foot explosion step and pushing the ball ahead on the dribble drive. The breakdown count consists of taking an explosion step past the defender with the foot opposite the side of the dribble drive and pushing the ball ahead on the floor for the dribble drive (figure 5.7). This move offers the advantage of getting the head and shoulders by and making hip contact on the defender—thus winning both the battle and the war—with the first step.
Figure 5.7 Live-ball move for either pivot foot (EPF)—direct-drive move with the opposite foot: (a) to the right with the left foot, (b) to the left with the right foot.
EPF Crossover Drive Players can also learn a countermove using either foot as the pivot foot: Either fake right and then cross over left with the left pivot foot or fake left and then cross over right with the right pivot foot. This move is carried out by making a quick stop facing the basket, making a jab step and crossover with the same foot to the opposite side (swinging the ball across and close to the body), and, finally, pushing the ball ahead to the floor and starting a dribble drive. The breakdown count consists of a jab step, then a crossover step with the same foot while bringing the ball across the body, and a dribble drive started by pushing the ball ahead to the floor (figure 5.8). This is the preferred EPF move as it allows the offensive player to win the battle (get by defender's front foot) and win the war (inside hip contact) with one crossover step (or by a jab and crossover).
Figure 5.8 Live-ball move for either pivot foot (EPF)—crossover drive: (a) crossing over from right to left (jabbing right), (b) crossover drive to the left past the defender.
Facing-the-basket post play
The technique used for high-post play or short-corner play (from the low-post position) combines back-to-the-basket and facing-the-basket techniques.
The technique used for high-post play or short-corner play (from the low-post position) combines back-to-the-basket and facing-the-basket techniques. Often, the defender in the high-post area defends with a hand in denial position on the ball side. Offensive high-post players may get open by initiating contact with the lower body and providing a target hand away from the defender (figure 6.13). This contact method of getting open has the disadvantage of establishing one foot as the pivot foot when the high-post player catches and faces the basket using RPA. Using either-pivot-foot (EPF) footwork, the post player may give up his or her position in order to catch the ball with both feet in the air facing the basket.
Figure 6.13 Getting open in the high-post or the short-corner (low-post) area.
When cutting into the post area as a trailer on the fast break or cutting from below, players should cut into the high post and catch the ball with a quick stop facing the basket (ball in the air, feet in the air), as shown in figure 6.14.
Figure 6.14 High-post cuts from low post, wing, or trailer position.
However, when high-post players catch the ball, they need to catch and face using RPA with a determined pivot foot (established). If the post player catches the ball facing the basket with the feet in the air, attacking options to either side are readily available. If permanent-pivot-foot (PPF) footwork is used, the high-post player can attack the preferred side with a direct drive or the nonpreferred side with the recommended crossover drive plus shooting options. When EPF footwork is chosen, players should use the following facing options (Zak attack) in the congested area of the high post (15 to 20 feet, or 4.6 to 6.1 meters, from the basket). These facing-the-basket attack moves are designed to penetrate to the basket using only one or two dribbles that result in a layin; a pass to a teammate; or a jump shot, floater, or dead-ball move closer to the basket.
Principles of passing and catching
The overall goal of passing and catching is for both the passer and the catcher to produce passes that are on time and on target. Table 3.1 presents three key passing principles and three related catching principles.
The overall goal of passing and catching is for both the passer and the catcher to produce passes that are on time and on target. Table 3.1 presents three key passing principles and three related catching principles.
Critical cue
Passes need to be on time and on target.
Players need to look for the pass before dribbling. When catching, players should follow the rim-post-action (RPA) rule: When they catch the ball within the operating area near the offensive basket, they should catch the ball and face the basket to look for the shot (rim or backboard spot), look to pass to a cutter in or near the post area or an inside post player (post), and then move the ball (action). A player's natural preference, or first instinct, however, is to dribble, which is an individual skill and thus tends to be practiced each time a player touches the ball. Overcoming this instinct requires continual emphasis on the shot and pass options.
Critical Cue
See the whole floor with big vision; look to pass first and dribble last.
Players can make good passes only when coaches teach the fundamental elements of passing, including the three passing rules:
- Footwork: Pass with the feet on the floor in most situations. Pass with a quick step for quickness and power (using the stepping foot). When possible, the catcher should catch the ball with the feet in the air. This is critical for avoiding traveling violations; when a player lands with a one-count quick stop, either foot can be used legally as a pivot (turning) foot.
- Target: Each pass must be thrown accurately to a spot target. The target is usually provided by the catcher in the form of a raised hand away from the defender. When possible, players should hold both arms up when catching—one to provide a target hand and the other to ward off the defender (figure 3.2). The catcher must give a spot target whenever possible.
Figure 3.2 Getting open: Keep both arms up.
- Speed of pass: The ball must be passed quickly, before the defender has time to react. The pass should be snappy and crisp—neither too hard nor too easy. A quick step is usually made in the direction of the pass to provide added force. The concept of passing with a ping was made popular by Fred “Tex” Winter, hall of fame coach and longtime assistant coach for the Chicago Bulls and Los Angeles Lakers. The most important part of the successful pass and catch is the second part—the catch. Most of the time, the catcher should catch with a click (getting two hands on the ball). In contrast, if the ball is thrown too hard, it slaps loudly as it is caught; when thrown too softly, no sound is heard. A proper catch can be made in one of two ways: blocking with the outside spot hand and securing the ball with the other hand, or just getting two hands on the ball as soon as possible when catching it.
Here are three more passing recommendations.
- Timing: The ball must be delivered when the receiver is open—not before or after. Pass with a ping at the right time. When learning to pass, exaggerate the follow-through.
- Deception: The passer must use deception to confuse the defender, who is reading the passer (especially the eyes) and anticipating the pass. Use ball fakes and use vision to see the whole floor (big vision) while focusing on the spot target.
- Meeting the ball:Catchers should shorten all passes (i.e., run through the ball) by meeting or coming toward the ball. (This does not apply, of course, on a breakaway, in which the player moves to the basket ahead of the defense.)
Passers should visually locate all teammates and defenders—seeing the rim of the basket when in the frontcourt and the net when in backcourt—while concentrating on the potential receiver without staring. This awareness can best be achieved by surveying the whole floor area (using big vision) with the ball in triple-threat position. When catching a pass, players should always be prepared to shoot (catch the ball and face the basket) if open and within range; if unable to shoot, they should try to pass to an open teammate before dribbling (rim-post-action).
Players must learn to give up the ball unselfishly by passing to an open player. Ball handlers can also dribble-drive and pass (i.e., penetrate and pitch)—that is, create assist opportunities by making dribble moves to the basket that allow them to pass to open teammates who can then score. When players are passing, they should choose to make the easy pass through or by the defender. Coaches should teach players not to gamble on passes; they should be clever but not fancy. Most of the time, a player making a dribble drive should use a quick stop before passing the ball at the end of the penetration or drive, staying under control (maintaining balance) and avoiding the offensive charge. This technique applies the rule of passing and stopping with the feet on the floor. John Stockton, all-star guard for Gonzaga University and the Utah Jazz, became the all-time assist leader in the NBA by making the easy pass (i.e., the simple play). His counterpart at Gonzaga, Courtney Vandersloot, a first team All-American and WNBA all-star was also an unselfish passer known for making the simple play.
Critical Cue
Make the easy pass.
Moves with either pivot foot (advanced)
These moves can be taught when either foot is used as the pivot foot (EPF) in live-ball moves. Both right-handed and left-handed players should be able to use this method to establish either foot as a pivot foot.
These moves can be taught when either foot is used as the pivot foot (EPF) in live-ball moves. Both right-handed and left-handed players should be able to use this method to establish either foot as a pivot foot.
EPF Direct Drive With the Direction Foot (Right Foot, Drive Right; Left Foot, Drive Left) This move, used to dribble-drive past a defender, consists of making the explosion step with the foot on the side to which the player is driving. The sequence is to make a quick stop facing the basket and, when driving right, use the left foot for a pivot foot and take an explosion step past the defender with the right foot; when driving left, step with the left foot and use the right foot as the pivot foot. The ball is pushed ahead on the floor on the dribble drive. The breakdown count consists of taking a long and low explosion step with the foot on the same side as the dribble drive (right foot to the right side, left foot to the left side) and pushing the ball ahead to the floor to start the dribble drive. The ball must be out of the hand before the pivot foot leaves the floor. The disadvantage of this direction-foot move is that hip contact on the defender (with the goal of winning the war of hip contact) occurs on the second step; in other words, the first step of the drive wins only the battle—not the war.
Critical Cues for EPF Moves
- Direct drive: Use the direction foot or the opposite foot.
- Crossover drive: Use the opposite foot.
EPF Direct Drive With the Opposite Foot This move is used to drive past a defender on either side by using the opposite foot to step across and shield the ball as a long and low direct drive is made. The opposite-foot drive is executed by making a quick stop facing the basket and, when driving right, stepping past the defender with a left-foot explosion step and pushing the ball ahead on the dribble drive. The breakdown count consists of taking an explosion step past the defender with the foot opposite the side of the dribble drive and pushing the ball ahead on the floor for the dribble drive (figure 5.7). This move offers the advantage of getting the head and shoulders by and making hip contact on the defender—thus winning both the battle and the war—with the first step.
Figure 5.7 Live-ball move for either pivot foot (EPF)—direct-drive move with the opposite foot: (a) to the right with the left foot, (b) to the left with the right foot.
EPF Crossover Drive Players can also learn a countermove using either foot as the pivot foot: Either fake right and then cross over left with the left pivot foot or fake left and then cross over right with the right pivot foot. This move is carried out by making a quick stop facing the basket, making a jab step and crossover with the same foot to the opposite side (swinging the ball across and close to the body), and, finally, pushing the ball ahead to the floor and starting a dribble drive. The breakdown count consists of a jab step, then a crossover step with the same foot while bringing the ball across the body, and a dribble drive started by pushing the ball ahead to the floor (figure 5.8). This is the preferred EPF move as it allows the offensive player to win the battle (get by defender's front foot) and win the war (inside hip contact) with one crossover step (or by a jab and crossover).
Figure 5.8 Live-ball move for either pivot foot (EPF)—crossover drive: (a) crossing over from right to left (jabbing right), (b) crossover drive to the left past the defender.
Facing-the-basket post play
The technique used for high-post play or short-corner play (from the low-post position) combines back-to-the-basket and facing-the-basket techniques.
The technique used for high-post play or short-corner play (from the low-post position) combines back-to-the-basket and facing-the-basket techniques. Often, the defender in the high-post area defends with a hand in denial position on the ball side. Offensive high-post players may get open by initiating contact with the lower body and providing a target hand away from the defender (figure 6.13). This contact method of getting open has the disadvantage of establishing one foot as the pivot foot when the high-post player catches and faces the basket using RPA. Using either-pivot-foot (EPF) footwork, the post player may give up his or her position in order to catch the ball with both feet in the air facing the basket.
Figure 6.13 Getting open in the high-post or the short-corner (low-post) area.
When cutting into the post area as a trailer on the fast break or cutting from below, players should cut into the high post and catch the ball with a quick stop facing the basket (ball in the air, feet in the air), as shown in figure 6.14.
Figure 6.14 High-post cuts from low post, wing, or trailer position.
However, when high-post players catch the ball, they need to catch and face using RPA with a determined pivot foot (established). If the post player catches the ball facing the basket with the feet in the air, attacking options to either side are readily available. If permanent-pivot-foot (PPF) footwork is used, the high-post player can attack the preferred side with a direct drive or the nonpreferred side with the recommended crossover drive plus shooting options. When EPF footwork is chosen, players should use the following facing options (Zak attack) in the congested area of the high post (15 to 20 feet, or 4.6 to 6.1 meters, from the basket). These facing-the-basket attack moves are designed to penetrate to the basket using only one or two dribbles that result in a layin; a pass to a teammate; or a jump shot, floater, or dead-ball move closer to the basket.
Principles of passing and catching
The overall goal of passing and catching is for both the passer and the catcher to produce passes that are on time and on target. Table 3.1 presents three key passing principles and three related catching principles.
The overall goal of passing and catching is for both the passer and the catcher to produce passes that are on time and on target. Table 3.1 presents three key passing principles and three related catching principles.
Critical cue
Passes need to be on time and on target.
Players need to look for the pass before dribbling. When catching, players should follow the rim-post-action (RPA) rule: When they catch the ball within the operating area near the offensive basket, they should catch the ball and face the basket to look for the shot (rim or backboard spot), look to pass to a cutter in or near the post area or an inside post player (post), and then move the ball (action). A player's natural preference, or first instinct, however, is to dribble, which is an individual skill and thus tends to be practiced each time a player touches the ball. Overcoming this instinct requires continual emphasis on the shot and pass options.
Critical Cue
See the whole floor with big vision; look to pass first and dribble last.
Players can make good passes only when coaches teach the fundamental elements of passing, including the three passing rules:
- Footwork: Pass with the feet on the floor in most situations. Pass with a quick step for quickness and power (using the stepping foot). When possible, the catcher should catch the ball with the feet in the air. This is critical for avoiding traveling violations; when a player lands with a one-count quick stop, either foot can be used legally as a pivot (turning) foot.
- Target: Each pass must be thrown accurately to a spot target. The target is usually provided by the catcher in the form of a raised hand away from the defender. When possible, players should hold both arms up when catching—one to provide a target hand and the other to ward off the defender (figure 3.2). The catcher must give a spot target whenever possible.
Figure 3.2 Getting open: Keep both arms up.
- Speed of pass: The ball must be passed quickly, before the defender has time to react. The pass should be snappy and crisp—neither too hard nor too easy. A quick step is usually made in the direction of the pass to provide added force. The concept of passing with a ping was made popular by Fred “Tex” Winter, hall of fame coach and longtime assistant coach for the Chicago Bulls and Los Angeles Lakers. The most important part of the successful pass and catch is the second part—the catch. Most of the time, the catcher should catch with a click (getting two hands on the ball). In contrast, if the ball is thrown too hard, it slaps loudly as it is caught; when thrown too softly, no sound is heard. A proper catch can be made in one of two ways: blocking with the outside spot hand and securing the ball with the other hand, or just getting two hands on the ball as soon as possible when catching it.
Here are three more passing recommendations.
- Timing: The ball must be delivered when the receiver is open—not before or after. Pass with a ping at the right time. When learning to pass, exaggerate the follow-through.
- Deception: The passer must use deception to confuse the defender, who is reading the passer (especially the eyes) and anticipating the pass. Use ball fakes and use vision to see the whole floor (big vision) while focusing on the spot target.
- Meeting the ball:Catchers should shorten all passes (i.e., run through the ball) by meeting or coming toward the ball. (This does not apply, of course, on a breakaway, in which the player moves to the basket ahead of the defense.)
Passers should visually locate all teammates and defenders—seeing the rim of the basket when in the frontcourt and the net when in backcourt—while concentrating on the potential receiver without staring. This awareness can best be achieved by surveying the whole floor area (using big vision) with the ball in triple-threat position. When catching a pass, players should always be prepared to shoot (catch the ball and face the basket) if open and within range; if unable to shoot, they should try to pass to an open teammate before dribbling (rim-post-action).
Players must learn to give up the ball unselfishly by passing to an open player. Ball handlers can also dribble-drive and pass (i.e., penetrate and pitch)—that is, create assist opportunities by making dribble moves to the basket that allow them to pass to open teammates who can then score. When players are passing, they should choose to make the easy pass through or by the defender. Coaches should teach players not to gamble on passes; they should be clever but not fancy. Most of the time, a player making a dribble drive should use a quick stop before passing the ball at the end of the penetration or drive, staying under control (maintaining balance) and avoiding the offensive charge. This technique applies the rule of passing and stopping with the feet on the floor. John Stockton, all-star guard for Gonzaga University and the Utah Jazz, became the all-time assist leader in the NBA by making the easy pass (i.e., the simple play). His counterpart at Gonzaga, Courtney Vandersloot, a first team All-American and WNBA all-star was also an unselfish passer known for making the simple play.
Critical Cue
Make the easy pass.
Moves with either pivot foot (advanced)
These moves can be taught when either foot is used as the pivot foot (EPF) in live-ball moves. Both right-handed and left-handed players should be able to use this method to establish either foot as a pivot foot.
These moves can be taught when either foot is used as the pivot foot (EPF) in live-ball moves. Both right-handed and left-handed players should be able to use this method to establish either foot as a pivot foot.
EPF Direct Drive With the Direction Foot (Right Foot, Drive Right; Left Foot, Drive Left) This move, used to dribble-drive past a defender, consists of making the explosion step with the foot on the side to which the player is driving. The sequence is to make a quick stop facing the basket and, when driving right, use the left foot for a pivot foot and take an explosion step past the defender with the right foot; when driving left, step with the left foot and use the right foot as the pivot foot. The ball is pushed ahead on the floor on the dribble drive. The breakdown count consists of taking a long and low explosion step with the foot on the same side as the dribble drive (right foot to the right side, left foot to the left side) and pushing the ball ahead to the floor to start the dribble drive. The ball must be out of the hand before the pivot foot leaves the floor. The disadvantage of this direction-foot move is that hip contact on the defender (with the goal of winning the war of hip contact) occurs on the second step; in other words, the first step of the drive wins only the battle—not the war.
Critical Cues for EPF Moves
- Direct drive: Use the direction foot or the opposite foot.
- Crossover drive: Use the opposite foot.
EPF Direct Drive With the Opposite Foot This move is used to drive past a defender on either side by using the opposite foot to step across and shield the ball as a long and low direct drive is made. The opposite-foot drive is executed by making a quick stop facing the basket and, when driving right, stepping past the defender with a left-foot explosion step and pushing the ball ahead on the dribble drive. The breakdown count consists of taking an explosion step past the defender with the foot opposite the side of the dribble drive and pushing the ball ahead on the floor for the dribble drive (figure 5.7). This move offers the advantage of getting the head and shoulders by and making hip contact on the defender—thus winning both the battle and the war—with the first step.
Figure 5.7 Live-ball move for either pivot foot (EPF)—direct-drive move with the opposite foot: (a) to the right with the left foot, (b) to the left with the right foot.
EPF Crossover Drive Players can also learn a countermove using either foot as the pivot foot: Either fake right and then cross over left with the left pivot foot or fake left and then cross over right with the right pivot foot. This move is carried out by making a quick stop facing the basket, making a jab step and crossover with the same foot to the opposite side (swinging the ball across and close to the body), and, finally, pushing the ball ahead to the floor and starting a dribble drive. The breakdown count consists of a jab step, then a crossover step with the same foot while bringing the ball across the body, and a dribble drive started by pushing the ball ahead to the floor (figure 5.8). This is the preferred EPF move as it allows the offensive player to win the battle (get by defender's front foot) and win the war (inside hip contact) with one crossover step (or by a jab and crossover).
Figure 5.8 Live-ball move for either pivot foot (EPF)—crossover drive: (a) crossing over from right to left (jabbing right), (b) crossover drive to the left past the defender.
Facing-the-basket post play
The technique used for high-post play or short-corner play (from the low-post position) combines back-to-the-basket and facing-the-basket techniques.
The technique used for high-post play or short-corner play (from the low-post position) combines back-to-the-basket and facing-the-basket techniques. Often, the defender in the high-post area defends with a hand in denial position on the ball side. Offensive high-post players may get open by initiating contact with the lower body and providing a target hand away from the defender (figure 6.13). This contact method of getting open has the disadvantage of establishing one foot as the pivot foot when the high-post player catches and faces the basket using RPA. Using either-pivot-foot (EPF) footwork, the post player may give up his or her position in order to catch the ball with both feet in the air facing the basket.
Figure 6.13 Getting open in the high-post or the short-corner (low-post) area.
When cutting into the post area as a trailer on the fast break or cutting from below, players should cut into the high post and catch the ball with a quick stop facing the basket (ball in the air, feet in the air), as shown in figure 6.14.
Figure 6.14 High-post cuts from low post, wing, or trailer position.
However, when high-post players catch the ball, they need to catch and face using RPA with a determined pivot foot (established). If the post player catches the ball facing the basket with the feet in the air, attacking options to either side are readily available. If permanent-pivot-foot (PPF) footwork is used, the high-post player can attack the preferred side with a direct drive or the nonpreferred side with the recommended crossover drive plus shooting options. When EPF footwork is chosen, players should use the following facing options (Zak attack) in the congested area of the high post (15 to 20 feet, or 4.6 to 6.1 meters, from the basket). These facing-the-basket attack moves are designed to penetrate to the basket using only one or two dribbles that result in a layin; a pass to a teammate; or a jump shot, floater, or dead-ball move closer to the basket.