Coaches Manual. Version 1 September 2018

Transcription

1 Coaches Manual Version 1 September 2018 Compiled by Bill Edwards HRBA Coaches Coordinator

2 Contents Contents... 2 Preface... 6 Drill Legend... 6 Section 1 Basketball Drills... 7 Basketball Drill 1 Bull in the Ring... 8 Basketball Drill 2 Bump the Cutter... 9 Basketball Drill 3 Chill Basketball Drill 4 Close Out Basketball Drill 5 Defensive Shuffle and Pass Basketball Drill 6 Fifty Passes Basketball Drill 7 Five Corner Passing Basketball Drill 8 Five on Four Plus One Basketball Drill 9 Four on Four Recover Basketball Drill 10 Full Court Four Line Passing Basketball Drill 11 Full Court Lay-ups with Chaser Basketball Drill 12 Full Court Lay-ups Basketball Drill 13 Horseshoe Shooting Basketball Drill 14 Knockout Basketball Drill 15 Lay-up and Rebounding Lines Basketball Drill 16 Line Dribbling Basketball Drill 17 Line Running Basketball Drill 18 Mass Defence Basketball Drill 19 Mirror Basketball Drill 20 Ball Reversal, Receivers Basketball Drill 21 Cutting to Get Open Basketball Drill 22 Dribble Entries Basketball Drill 23 Give and Go Basketball Drill 24 Perimeter to Post Basketball Drill 25 Post Players Basketball Drill 26 Screen and Roll Basketball Drill 27 Screen Away Basketball Drill 28 Mushball Basketball Drill 29 One on One

3 Basketball Drill 30 Pass, Shoot and Rebound Basketball Drill 31 Pass, Shoot and Box Out Basketball Drill 32 Penetrate and Dish Basketball Drill 33 Pepper Basketball Drill 34 Pig in the Middle Basketball Drill 35 Pivot Away, Two on One Basketball Drill 36 Post Moves Basketball Drill 37 Power Post Pickups Basketball Drill 38 Pride Basketball Drill 39 Shell Basketball Drill 40 Slide Run Slide Basketball Drill 41 Star Basketball Drill 42 Ten Fingers Basketball Drill 43 Terminator Basketball Drill 44 Three on Two, Two on One Basketball Drill 45 Three-Man Weave Basketball Drill 46 Turning and Channelling the Dribbler Basketball Drill 47 Two Teams Sliding Basketball Drill 48 Cincinnati Basketball Drill 49 Create a Lead Basketball Drill 50 Dribble, Cut, Pass & Drive Basketball Drill 51 Half- Court, Two Pass Drill Basketball Drill 52 Triangle Passing Basketball Drill 53 Triangle Shooting Section 2 Basketball Terminology Section 3 Skills Checklist Section 4 Weekly Session Training Plans Weekly Training Session Plan Week Weekly Training Session Plan Week Weekly Training Session Plan Week Weekly Training Session Plan Week Weekly Training Session Plan Week Weekly Training Session Plan Week Weekly Training Session Plan Week Weekly Training Session Plan Week Weekly Training Session Plan Week

4 Weekly Training Session Plan Week Weekly Training Session Plan Week Weekly Training Session Plan Week Weekly Training Session Plan Week Weekly Training Session Plan Week Weekly Training Session Plan Week Weekly Training Session Plan Week Weekly Training Session Plan Week Weekly Training Session Plan Week Weekly Training Session Plan Week Weekly Training Session Plan Week Weekly Training Session Plan Week Weekly Training Session Plan Week Weekly Training Session Plan Week Weekly Training Session Plan Week Weekly Training Session Plan Week Weekly Training Session Plan Week Section 5 Player Homework Sheets Basketball Homework Sheet No 1 Week 1 to Basketball Homework Sheet No 2 Week 5 to Basketball Homework Sheet No 3 Week 9 to Basketball Homework Sheet No 4 Week 13 to Basketball Homework Sheet No 5 Week 17 to Basketball Homework Sheet No 6 Week 21 to Section 6 Player Handout Sheets Basketball Player Handout 1 Lay-ups Basketball Player Handout 2 Shooting (page 2 of 2) Basketball Player Handout 3 Passing (page 1 of 2) Basketball Player Handout 3 Passing (page 2 of 2) Basketball Player Handout 4 Dribbling Basketball Player Handout 5 Stopping and Pivoting Basketball Player Handout 6 Basic Defensive Skills (page 1 of 2) Basketball Player Handout 6 Basic Defensive Skills (page 2 of 2) Basketball Player Handout 7 Defensive Philosophy (page 1 of 2) Basketball Player Handout 7 Defensive Philosophy (page 2 of 2) Basketball Player Handout 8 Rebounding

5 Basketball Player Handout 9 Triple Threat and Individual Offensive Moves Basketball Player Handout 10 Side Drills (page 1 of 2) Basketball Player Handout 10 Side Drills (page 2 of 2) Basketball Player Handout 11 Player Positions Basketball Player Handout 12 Court Terminology Basketball Player Handout 13 Fast Break Responsibilities Basketball Player Handout 14 Team Defensive Rules and Goals Basketball Player Handout 15 Screening (page 1 of 2) Basketball Player Handout 15 Screening (page 2 of 2) Basketball Player Handout 16 Motion Offense Principles Section 7 - Motion Offenses Motion Offense Philosophy Reasons for Motion Offense Essential Components of Motion Offense Basic Principles of Motion Offense Basic Concepts Vs Man to Man Defence Motion Offensive Sets/Alignments Type 0f Cuts Types of Screens Using Screens Screen Options Teaching Motion Offense (5 Out) Section 8 Out of Bounds Plays Out-Of-Bounds Play 1 Offensive Baseline Box Out-Of-Bounds Play 2 Offensive Baseline Stack Out-Of-Bounds Play 3 Offensive Baseline Stack Out-Of-Bounds Play 4 Sideline Split Line Out-Of-Bounds Play 5 Sideline Box Out-Of-Bounds Play 6 Sideline Screener Out-Of-Bounds Play 7 Defensive Baseline Call a Number Out-Of-Bounds Play 8 Multiple Isolate Out-Of-Bounds Play 9 Sideline Diamond

6 Preface Hi Coach I would like to introduce the Hills Raiders coaching resource manual. Whether you are new to coaching or experienced I hope that you will find the drills and information helpful. In the manual you will find in in addition to drills and practice plans some carefully selected information on motion offences and some useful handout information. All the information is compiled has easy to understand language designed to uncomplicate the game of basketball. I recommend that you check out the coach s clipboard website. This resource has over a thousand pages of strategy, offences, defence plays and drills, as well as coach discussion topics ranging from basketball philosophy to teaching progressions. For any further help please call me on , bill_edwards-coach@bigpond.com, or catch me at the courts. Happy Hooping Coach Bill Drill Legend Please find the legend below for the drills 6

7 Section 1 Basketball Drills Basketball Drills in this manual are presented for the development of basketball players skills that are transferrable into a playing situation. They are designed to emphasis a skill or multiple skills in each. The fundamentals that are covered in these drills are: Passing Receiving Dribbling Footwork Stance Movement without the ball Defence Offence Transition The drills that are referenced in the training sessions are found in section one of this document. 7

8 Basketball Drill 1 Bull in the Ring Name: Bull in the Ring Type: Passing, Defence Drill Instruction: Players form a circle around a single defender. Players in the circle must make passes to others in the circle but may not pass to a player next to them. The defender must pressure the player with the ball and attempt to intercept or "touch" the pass. On an interception or "touch" the passer replaces the defender in the middle. Variations: 1. Use two or more balls. 2. Use two or more defenders in the circle. 3. Change size of circle for shorter or longer passes. 4. Put a time limit on ball-handler to get off pass (e.g. defender counts to 3 seconds). Points of Emphasis: 1. Fake a pass to make a pass. 2. Tough defence on the ball, don't just sag off ball. 3. Active hands. 4. No lollipop passes over the top of the defender. 8

9 Basketball Drill 2 Bump the Cutter Name: Bump the Cutter Type: Defence Drill Instruction: Coach has ball outside three-point line. Offensive player starts in opposite corner. Defender adopts flat triangle position in key. Offense attempts flash cut to ball. Defender must meet cutter in lane, bump the cutter and deny the pass in the key, forcing the offense out to a less advantageous position low in the opposite corner or high on top. If offense gets ball, play one on one to basket (offense has no more than two dribbles). Rotate offense to defence. Variations: 1. Reposition feeder (coach) and cutter to various parts of offensive half-court. Points of Emphasis: 1. Defence adopt correct initial position relative to ball and man. 2. See ball and man. 3. Deny the pass in the key. 4. Contact the cutter (chest or arm bar). 5. Deny stance up high, snap head and arm down low. 6. Defence lower than offense - correct stance. 7. Correct footwork. 9

10 Basketball Drill 3 Chill Name: Chill Type: Dribbling Drill Instruction: Players line up at corner of the court and follow the path shown in diagram to the right. The following describes the desired path. Dribbler starts at corner with ball in right hand. 1. At points A and B execute an inside-out move (fake crossover). 2. At point C execute a reverse spin - now dribbling left hand. 3. Dribble to point D, then quickly retreat dribble back to point E. 4. At point E, execute a quick, low crossover dribble and dribble to point F - now dribbling right hand. 5. At point F execute a 180 degree half spin (fake reverse). 6. At point G execute a behind-the-back as you change direction. 7. At point H execute a hesitation, stutter-step dribble and explode to the basket for a lay-up. Variations: 1. Go around the opposite direction (start at bottom left corner). 2. The other variations you can make to this drill are limited only by your imagination. Points of Emphasis: 1. Keep your head up - see the court. 2. Low dribbling stance. 3. Explosive, quick moves. 4. Do it at game pace. 5. Low dribbles (especially on crossovers). 10

11 Basketball Drill 4 Close Out Name: Close Out Type: Defence Drill Instruction: Four players set up around three point line. Remaining players in line underneath basket. No ball is used in this drill. X1 "closes out" player 1. Player 1 makes an offensive move (only one step required, but direction should be varied) and X1 must drop step in that direction and make one quick slide. X1 then retreats back to basket and repeats action for the other three players around three point line. X2 can start and perform same action once X1 has finished with player 1. Once X1 is back at start of line players 1-4 rotate (4 goes to Xs line and X1 replaces player 1). Variations: 1. Practice both "bunny hop" and "stutter step" close out methods. Points of Emphasis: 1. Correct defensive stance and footwork. 2. Defender calls "ball" every time. 3. Offense use proper triple threat stance and correct jab footwork. 11

12 Basketball Drill 5 Defensive Shuffle and Pass Name: Defensive Shuffle and Pass Type: Defensive Stance, Footwork and Passing Drill Instruction: Players are in groups of three. The three players set up as shown in diagram A. Two players with balls are about 3-4 steps apart and face third player who begins drill standing in front of one of the other players. Player 1 passes to player 3 who returns pass and then defensive shuffles in front of player 2 (diagram A). Player 2 then passes to player 3 who returns pass and then defensive shuffles back in front of player 1 (diagram B). This sequence is repeated. Run for specified time (e.g. 1 minute) and rotate players. Variations: 1. Specify types of passes to be made. 2. Most passes in specified time (competitive). Points of Emphasis: 1. Correct defensive footwork (wide then wider). 2. Good crisp passes. 12

13 Basketball Drill 6 Fifty Passes Name: Fifty Passes Drill Type: Passing, Moving Without the Ball, Defence Drill Instruction: Split group into two teams (of equal ability). Players use half-court. Players are not allowed to dribble the ball. Each team must try to complete fifty passes to win the game. Each team counts out loud as they complete each pass. Possession always changes to other team when a violation (or dribble) occurs, or the ball is held or the ball goes out of bounds (irrespective of who it came off when it went out). When a team gets possession back they continue pass count from where they got to on last possession. First team to fifty wins the game. Variations: None. Points of Emphasis: 1. Fake a pass to make a pass. 2. Move to space - create a passing lane. 3. Move to the ball - don't wait for it. 4. Pivot and move ball aggressively when confronted by defender(s). 5. Step into defender to make a pass. 6. Vary the type of passes you make - don't be predictable. 7. Talk - communicate. 8. On Defence - man up. 13

14 Basketball Drill 7 Five Corner Passing Name: Five Corner Passing Type: Passing Drill Instruction: Players form five lines in a star alignment (see diagram). Players in front of two lines have balls. The players must pass to the player in the front of the line that is next-but-one to them. They must then follow their pass to the end of that line. Instruct players to run to the far side of the line they are joining. This creates more traffic for the next passer. Variations: 1. For beginning players start off with just one ball. 2. Specify the type of passes to be made. 3. On coaches shout of "reverse" players must reverse the direction of passes (i.e. anticlockwise to clockwise). Points of Emphasis: 1. Communicate - call a name. 2. Show ten fingers. 3. Step to the ball to receive the pass. 4. Good passing form. 5. Good crisp passes. 14

15 Basketball Drill 8 Five on Four Plus One Name: Five on Four Plus One Type: Transition. Drill Instruction: Offense lines up along baseline. Defence lines up along free-throw line extended. Coach passes ball to one of the offensive players and offensive team go straight into offensive transition. The defensive player guarding the offensive player who received the ball must sprint and touch the baseline before joining the team on Defence. Variations: None. Points of Emphasis: 1. Defence must sprint back, get behind ball. 2. Get back and protect the basket. 3. Someone must take the ball-handler. 4. Communicate, communicate, communicate. 15

16 Basketball Drill 9 Four on Four Recover Name: Four on Four Recover Type: Transition Drill Instruction: This drill starts of as a four on four half court scrimmage. When the ball is rebounded by the defensive team, or a basket is scored the defensive team move straight into offensive transition. The original offense now goes into defensive transition, but the player who took the shot must run and touch the nearest baseline / sideline corner before sprinting down court. This gives the offense a four on three advantage until the shooter recovers. Variations: This drill can be played with three or five players on each team also. Points of Emphasis: 1. Defensive team must sprint back past half-court catching up with any men ahead of them or turning and finding a man if they are behind you. 2. Communicate, communicate, communicate! 3. Closest man takes the ball - slow it down. 4. Get in front of the ball. 5. Offense - go at top speed and find the open man. 16

17 Basketball Drill 10 Full Court Four Line Passing Name: Full Court Four Line Passing Type: Passing, Transition Drill Instruction: Players get into four lines at baseline as shown in diagram. Players progress the ball down the court by passing and moving in their lines only. Note that to create traffic and make job harder, players in line 1 are passing across to line 3 and back. Players in line 2 are passing to line 4 and back. As players get to free-throw line extended at opposite end outside players cut to basket for pass and lay-up. Inside and outside players exchange lines and players return down court in similar fashion. Variations: 1. For younger players you may decide to make it easier and remove the traffic option and have players pass to lines next to them. 2. Alternatively, you might like to have lines 1 and 4 exchange longer passes and lines 2 & 3 exchanges shorter ones. Points of Emphasis: 1. Do it a full speed, on the run, not stop and go. 2. Pass in front of a moving player. 3. Show ten fingers and call a name to receive pass. 17

18 Basketball Drill 11 Full Court Lay-ups with Chaser Name: Full Court Lay-ups with Chaser Type: Transition, Lay-ups Drill Instruction: Players make two lines (one under basket, one at right corner of court). Players in centre line have ball each. Player 1 (centre line) throws ball at backboard and rebounds. Player 2 (corner line) assumes outlet position. Player 1 passes to player 2 who speed dribbles for a lay-up. Player 1 chases in attempt to distract or block the lay-up. At other end players swap roles and come back on the other side of the court. Variations: 1. See how few dribbles any pair can make for two baskets. 2. How many baskets can team make in certain time. Points of Emphasis: 1. Speed dribble - push the ball out in front. 2. Sprint. 3. Correct lay-up form. 4. Don't rush the lay-up. 5. Outlet player in "knife" position - back to sideline, see the whole court. 18

19 Basketball Drill 12 Full Court Lay-ups Name: Full Court Lay-ups Type: Transition Drill Instruction: Players form three lines at baseline. A cone or chair is placed on court at opposite end on three-point line at free throw line extended. On way down court, player 1 sprints the lane and goes outside the cone and cuts to the basket, timing run for pass from other two players who are passing the ball down the court whilst running in their lanes (see diagram A). Player 1 scores with a lay-up. Middle lane (player 2) rebounds the ball while outside players exchange lanes. Player 3 runs outside the cone, and runs the outside lane looking for pass from the other two players (see diagram B). Player 3 scores with a layup. Players join end of a different line and drill continues. Variations: 1. Create traffic and heads-up play by starting second and subsequent groups when previous group scores. 2. Time players (how many scores in a set time e.g. two minutes) have a team record that you constantly try and beat each time. Points of Emphasis: 1. Teamwork - timing, communication, effort. 2. Transition - sprint the drill. 3. Pass in front of a moving player. 4. Ball does not hit the floor for entire drill. 19

20 Basketball Drill 13 Horseshoe Shooting Name: Horseshoe Shooting Type: Shooting, passing / receiving Drill Instruction: Players form two lines on baseline at either side of the key. The first player in one line has a ball, the second player in the other line has a ball. The coach stands on the middle of the free-throw line. Player 2 (front of line without ball) makes a v-cut around the coach, calling for the ball from player 1. Player 1 passes the ball to player 2 who shoots the basket and rebounds the ball. After taking the rebound players pass to the front player in the opposite line (opposite to where they came from). They then join the end of this line. After passing the ball, the player cuts around the coach as described above and the drill continues. Variations: 1. Take a dribble after receiving the ball and shoot off the dribble. 2. Make a hard drive to the basket rather than the shot. 3. Add a shot fake before the shot. Points of Emphasis: 1. Correct footwork on the cut and good hard change of direction. 2. Receive the ball in the triple threat position ready to shoot. 3. Correct shooting form. 4. Communicate - call for the ball. 20

21 Basketball Drill 14 Knockout Name: Knockout Type: Shooting Drill Instruction: Players form line at free-throw line with first two players having a ball. Players shoot their first shot from free-throw line and if they miss they follow their shot and keep rebounding and shooting until they score. Once the player in front of you has shot, you can begin in the same fashion as described above. If the player behind you scores before you do you are out of the game. Once you score, rebound the ball and return to next player in line, then return to end of line. Last player left in wins the game. Variations: 1. First shot from different position (e.g. 45 degrees, three-point line). Points of Emphasis: 1. Correct shooting form. 2. Observe free-throw rules - don't follow shot until ball hits ring. 3. Strong rebounding. 4. No travelling when going to basket on missed shots. 21

22 Basketball Drill 15 Lay-up and Rebounding Lines Name: Lay-up and Rebounding Lines Type: Lay-ups, rebounding, passing Drill Instruction: Players make two lines. The lay-up line is well outside the three point line towards the sideline. The rebound line is on the opposite side of the court at about the three point line. The first person in the lay-up line has a ball. Players in lay-up line make hard drives to the basket for a lay-up. Rebounder moves to basket anticipating rebound and takes strong rebound. Player who took lay-up moves to end of rebound line. Rebounder takes two strong dribbles out, make a good pass to next player in lay-up line and then move to the end of the lay-up line. Variations: 1. Swap sides of court. 2. Increase number of balls (up to as many as number of players will allow). 3. Vary type of lay-up (e.g. reverse, two-foot stop into power layup etc.) Points of Emphasis: 1. Correct lay-up form. 2. Make it a hard drive to basket (game speed). 3. Ball does not hit floor on the rebound. 4. Strong rebound, protect ball, strong dribble, hard pass. 5. Receiver to receive the ball running to the basket, not standing still. 22

23 Basketball Drill 16 Line Dribbling Name: Line Dribbling Type: Dribbling Drill Instruction: For straight line drills players line up in four lines at baseline (see diagram A). Players dribble down the court, and at designated spots (e.g. free-throw line extended, centre line), or on whistle, make one of the following designated moves; 1. Change from speed dribble to control (protection) dribble. 2. Crossover. 3. Fake crossover (inside out). 4. Reverse dribble. 5. Stutter (hesitation) dribble. For change of direction drills players line up in two lines near centre of court. Players practice change of direction dribbles in a zig-zag pattern down court (see diagram B). They can make one of the following designated moves. 1. Crossover. 2. Behind the back. 3. Between the legs. Variations: 1. Follow the leader - all players follow moves of designated player. Points of Emphasis: 1. Head up - see the court. 2. Correct dribbling technique - fingertips not palms. 3. Protect the ball. 4. Footwork. 5. Balance. 6. Stay low. 7. Explosive change of direction - plant the foot and push off. 23

24 Basketball Drill 17 Line Running Name: Line Running Type: Body movement fundamentals Drill Instruction: For straight line drills players line up in four lines at baseline (see diagram A). Players run down the court using one of the following designated running styles, 1. Normal jog. 2. Heels high jog. 3. Knees high jog. 4. Grapevine. In addition, at designated spots (e.g. free-throw line extended, centre line), or on whistle, make one of the following designated moves, 1. Jump stop. 2. Stride stop. 3. Forward pivot. 4. Reverse pivot. 5. Stutter (hesitation) step. For change of direction drills players line up in two lines near centre of court. Players practice change of direction in a zig-zag pattern down court (see diagram B). Variations: 1. Follow the leader - all players follow moves of designated player. Points of Emphasis: 1. Footwork. 2. Balance. 3. Stay low. 4. Explosive change of direction - plant the foot and push off. 24

25 Basketball Drill 18 Mass Defence Name: Mass Defence Type: Defensive stance and footwork. Drill Instruction: Players spread out on court facing the coach who is standing in front of them. The coach can use visual or audible cues to make the players do the following; 1. Get into their defensive stance. 2. Foot fire or pitter-patter with their feet (conditioning). 3. Defensive footwork any direction (e.g. left or right slide, drop step and slide, retreat step, close out). 4. Change hand position - coach might move ball around and have players trace ball, challenge shot etc. Visual cues may be better as it encourages players to keep their heads up. Variations: 1. Have a player lead the others. Points of Emphasis: 1. Correct defensive stance. 2. Stay low - no bobbing up and down. 3. Keep head in middle of body. 4. Keep head back - "nose behind toes". 5. Correct defensive footwork - wide then wider - don't bring feet together. 6. Active hands. 25

26 Basketball Drill 19 Mirror Name: Mirror Type: Defence Drill Instruction: This drill is designed to allow the players to improve their defensive stance and footwork. It can be run in one of two ways. 1. Players line up in a straight line facing towards the coach who is standing in front of them (see diagram A). As the coach moves from side to side the players attempt to keep with him and in a line. 2. Have players pair up and each pair chooses a line on the court. One player moves laterally along the line whilst the other player (facing them) attempts to stay in front of them (like "looking in a mirror"). Limit the number of steps to three before a change of direction or it will just turn into a running race along the line. After 30 seconds players swap roles (leader - follower). Variations: None. Points of Emphasis: 1. Correct stance and footwork (wide then wider). 2. Quickness. 26

27 Basketball Drill 20 Ball Reversal, Receivers Name: Ball Reversal, Receivers Type: Motion Offense Drill Instruction: These drills are designed to practice and teach the value of quick ball reversal. We also teach the principle of having two receivers in position when dribble penetration occurs into the key. Drill A (diagram A) has three players one at each wing and one at point. Players pass the ball point - wing - point - wing with each player vcutting and replacing themselves after they make each pass. Diagram B shows the four areas we want our players to get to, to be effective, threatening receivers when one of their team-mates dribble penetrates into the key. Every time the ball is dribbled into the key we want two of these spots filled. If the penetration is above the blocks it is both low spots that should be filled. If penetration is below the block fill one high spot and low spot opposite the penetration. Diagram C shows the progression from drill A. After a certain number of reversal passes coach shouts drive and ball-handler penetrates with their dribble, other two offensive players must move to the receivers spots for a pass off and score. Diagram D shows another set-up for similar drill with defender X3 helping and being forced to close out after quick ball reversal. O3 fakes / jabs and drives, O1 and O2 again must move to receivers spots. 27

28 Variations: 1. Drill A is good to run competitively - groups of 3 most passes in specified time. Don't count a pass if v-cut not done correctly. 2. All drills should be done 3 on 0 to start and then progress to 3 on Start with token Defence moving to full 3 on 3. Points of Emphasis: 1. Quick ball reversal. 2. V-cuts - plant foot, good change of direction, target hand. 3. Passes - pass away from defender. 4. Catch and square up to the basket. 5. Receivers - get to spots and present a target. 6. Recognise space - move into space. 7. Five player receivers principle - one player penetrating, two players in receivers spots, one player spotting up for outside shot, one player is defensive safety. 28

29 Basketball Drill 21 Cutting to Get Open Name: Cutting to Get Open Type: Motion Offense Drill Instruction: These drills are used to teach the v-cut, backdoor cut and leading from the low post. Points of Emphasis: Diagram A shows v-cut. Diagram B shows backdoor cut. Diagram C shows leading from the post. Variations: 1. Start all drills 2 on 0 and progress to 2 on Start with token Defence moving to full 2 on Run from different parts of the floor. 1. Offense a) At least two steps to take defender away. b) Plant foot - push of - change direction quickly. c) Present target hand. d) Catch and square up to the basket. e) Read the Defence - e.g. if overplayed go backdoor. f) Leading from post - take player up lane, inside leg and arm over in front of defender, once in front cut out to receive ball. g) Pass into path of cutter - don't make him stop. 2. Defence a) Defensive stance. b) Correct defensive footwork. c) Deny stance. d) Jump to ball on pass - not after pass made. e) Snap head and arm on backdoor cut. 29

30 Basketball Drill 22 Dribble Entries Name: Dribble Entries Type: Motion Offense Drill Instruction: Here we try to teach the different options available after a dribble entry to a wing. Main teaching emphasis is on filling empty spots (recognising space and what your teammates are doing). Diagram A shows a backdoor cut by O2 as she is dribbled at. O3 fills point (defensive safety) and O2 fills weakside if she doesn't get the pass. Run this drill with at least three return passes to new point before allowing pass to cutter. Obviously point can pass to either wing. Diagram B shows post-up (button-hook) cut by O2. Again O3 fills point. Once Defence is participating in drill, teach players to read how O2 is defended in post. If she is not fronted pass her the ball. If she is fronted pass to O3 at ballside elbow, O2 seals and looks for pass from O3. Diagram C shows O2 making shallow cut and filling point. O3 moves her defender but replaces herself. Variations: 1. All drills should be done 3 on 0 to start and then progress to 3 on Start with token Defence moving to full 3 on Run from both sides of floor equally. Points of Emphasis: 1. Moving to space. 2. Recognise teammates cuts. 3. Read Defence. 30

31 Basketball Drill 23 Give and Go Name: Give and Go Type: Motion Offense Drill Instruction: These drills (along with many other variations) can be used to teach and practice the give-and-go. In diagram A, O1 at point passes to a v- cutting O2 on wing and then cuts to basket. In diagram B, O2 returns initial pass to O1 and runs backdoor cut for give-and-go. In diagram C, O1 is running a give-and-go off the high post. Variations: 1. All drills should be done 3 on 0 to 2. start and then progress to 3 on Start with token Defence moving to full 3 on Run from both sides of floor equally. Points of Emphasis: 1. Offense a) Good cuts. b) Try for ball side cut c) whenever defence allows - take them away first to get ball side cut. d) Target hand. e) Bounce passes to cutter. 2. Defence a) Defensive stance. b) Correct defensive footwork. c) Deny stance. d) Jump to ball on pass - not after pass made. e) Snap head and arm on backdoor cut. 31

32 Basketball Drill 24 Perimeter to Post Name: Perimeter to Post Type: Motion Offense Drill Instruction: Run these drills to teach players to recognise how post players are defended and how to cut off posts. In diagram A, pass is to high post, so wing O2 cuts low and O1 replaces O2. In diagram B, pass is to low post, so point O1 cuts and O2 replaces O1. In diagram C, post Defence is allowing pass to post so we make it. In diagram D, post Defence is fronting so we pass to O1 cutting to ballside elbow, post seals and we look for high-low pass. Variations: 1. Start 3 on 0, progress to 3 on Start with token Defence progressing to full 3 on 3. Points of Emphasis: 1. Recognise space. 2. Recognise open man. 32

33 Basketball Drill 25 Post Players Name: Post Players Type: Motion Offense Drill Instruction: Here we teach two post players to work together. We also teach Defence on posts. Diagram A, when pass is to high post, low post seals and looks for pass and basket. Diagram B, when pass is to low post, high post shows and then cuts to basket looking for pass from low post and basket. Diagram C shows a good drill I use where we have two posts and two post defenders. Remainder of squad passes ball around key looking for posts to make good position and they then pass to posts who go 2 on 2. Diagram D shows a good two-passers to two posts drill. Posts set a screen and roll on cross screen and both screener and roller get pass for a basket. Variations: 1. Start 3 on 0, progress to 3 on Start with token Defence progressing to full 3 on Run from both sides of floor. 4. Various cuts off screens. 33

34 Points of Emphasis: 1. Offense. a) Recognise how your partner is defended. b) Remember to move without the ball - correctly. c) Present a target when you want the ball by holding hand up and yelling for ball. Drop hand and stop yelling one second before moving (e.g. to screen or relocate). This way you won't get hit in the head by a pass from a teammate. d) Jump stop as you receive the ball in the post - option of either foot as pivot foot. e) Receiving the ball, remember the 3 C's. Catch, Chin (the ball, protect with extended elbows) and Check your defender. 2. Defence. a) Side-front high when ball is high. b) Side-front low when ball is low. c) Correct footwork in front of post to move between two stances. 34

35 Basketball Drill 26 Screen and Roll Name: Screen and Roll Type: Motion Offense Drill Instruction: These drills teach the screen and roll. Point O1 passes to wing O2 and sets screen on O2s defender. O2 reads Defence and drives off screen. O1 rolls to basket. Variations: 1. Start 2 on 0, progressing to 2 on Start with token Defence, move to full 2 on 2. Points of Emphasis: 1. Offense. a) Cutter must wait for screener to set. b) Screener must set wide, low, balanced screen, arms in, contact defence. c) Cutter uses screen - brush shoulders. d) Drive hard, penetrate - look to score. e) Screener rolls - see ball rule. 2. Defence. a) Screeners defender must show numbers and recover. b) Cutters defender must fight over top of screen (hips and leg over). 35

36 Basketball Drill 27 Screen Away Name: Screen Away Type: Motion Offense Drill Instruction: These drills show how to begin teaching the screen away from the ball. Diagram A shows point O1 passing to wing O2 and then setting screen weakside for O3. Diagram B shows O3 cutting off screen and O1 rolling to basket. Diagram C shows a modification to B where an extra passer is inserted to give both screener and cutter a pass and score. Variations: 1. Start drills 3 on 0 and progress to 3 on Start drills with token Defence and move to full 3 on 3. 36

37 Points of Emphasis: 1. The player who is setting the screen should remember to: a) Keep your feet shoulder width apart, bend your knees and take up a strong balanced position. b) Hold your arms strongly across your chest to protect yourself. c) Expect contact - you want the defender to run into you. d) Make sure your body is positioned "square" to the direction you are trying to screen. e) Make sure the defender is in the middle of your body. f) Remember to call your team-mate so she knows you are screening. Remember the raised "fist". g) You must not push the defender. h) You must remain stationary, and in your "cylinder". i) Once the "cutter" has gone, "roll" to the basket. 2. The player who is cutting off the screen should remember to: a) Don't cut too soon. You must wait for the screener to have set the screen properly and to be stationary. b) Fake in the opposite direction that you are going to cut to put the defender off balance. c) Cut close to the screener. Brush shoulders with them. If you leave a gap the defender may get through it. d) "Read" the Defence and make your move accordingly. i. If the screener does a good job and the defender is run right into the screen, the cutter should make a tight cut, close to the screener, into the lane looking for a pass. ii. If the defender gets between the screener and the cutter (fights over the top of the screen), the cutter can go back door looking for the pass. The screener should turn (face the basket) to block the defender. iii. If the defender chooses to go behind the screener, the cutter pops out for an easy pass (and possibly a 3point shot). Again, the screener can turn to block the defender. 3. Correct screening angles. a) Down screen - back to ball, b) Up screen - back to baseline corner, c) Back screen - back to basket, d) Cross screen - back to ball side elbow. 37

38 Basketball Drill 28 Mushball Name: Mushball Type: Free-throw shooting, offense/defence close to basket Drill Instruction: Players line up as shown in diagram A. One player is in each of the low free-throw lane positions. The remaining players line up at the free-throw line with the first person in line with a ball. The shooter shoots free-throws until she misses, scoring one point for each made shot. Free-throw lane rules must be adhered to: players in the lane cannot cross line until ball leaves shooters hand. shooter cannot cross free-throw line until ball hits ring. On a miss all three players play to score. That is, the person who rebounds is on offense, the other two are on Defence. A field goal from this 1 on 2 contest is worth two points. Players cannot go further than one step outside key. Play continues until a field goal is scored, the ball leaves the field of play (i.e. one step outside of key), a violation occurs, or the ball is held. Then players rotate. The rotation sequence is shown in diagram B. Encourage strong moves to the basket, through the Defence. There are no fouls (other than flagrant ones) in Mushball. Variations: 1. In the case where a player is well defended and cannot score, allow a pass out to the coach (who is standing to one side just inside the three-point line). The coach should return the ball to the same player, as long as she does a good job of getting open (by cutting to the basket, or posting up). 2. Allow players waiting in line to distract shooter by shouting etc. (no touching). 3. Have players rotating from second lane position run a suicide before returning to end of free-throw line. This should help simulate tiredness (e.g. end of game). 38

39 Points of Emphasis: 1. Players to have correct free-throw form and a consistent free-throw routine. 2. Players to go strong to basket (body parallel to backboard). 3. Read defenders and move accordingly. 4. Use the pump fake. 5. Go strong for the rebound. 6. Power dribble only - protect the ball. 39

40 Basketball Drill 29 One on One Name: One on One Type: Individual Offense, Defence Drill Instruction: Players are in groups of three. Player 1 is passer, player 2 is offense, X2 is Defence. Player 2 gets open (V-cut, back cut, lead from post etc.), player 1 makes pass. X2 plays Defence (deny pass, play Defence one-on-one). Offense must always square up and assume triple threat position when receiving on perimeter. Offense can use any offensive move, or might be instructed to use certain one by coach. These might include, a) Catch, face and shoot. b) Jab step and shoot. c) Jab step, shot fake and shoot. d) Jab step and strong side drive into jump shot off dribble. e) Jab step and crossover drive into jump shot off dribble. f) Jab step and strong side drive into power layup. g) Jab step and crossover drive into power layup. Players rotate X2 becomes passer, 2 becomes Defence, 1 becomes offense. Can have two groups at each basket. Variations: 1. Only token Defence if players need practice on moves. 2. Make X2 close out from a distance. 3. Use different positions on court. Points of Emphasis: 1. Catch and face - triple threat. 2. Stay balanced. 3. Fool the Defence with realistic jabs and shot fakes. 4. Read the Defence - take what they give you. 5. Intensity - game pace. 40

41 Basketball Drill 30 Pass, Shoot and Rebound Name: Pass, Shoot and Rebound Type: Offense Drill Instruction: Players operate in groups of three. One player is passer, one is rebounder (starts with ball), the other is shooter. Rebounder passes to passer, passer passes to shooter, shooter shoots, rebounder rebounds and sequence is repeated. Variations: 1. Run drill for certain time (say 1 minute) and rotate players. 2. Rotate every shot. 3. Shooter must dribble to right or left and shoot. 4. Shooter must relocate every shot. 5. Passer and shooter give shot fake, jab step etc. before pass or shot. Points of Emphasis: 1. Correct shooting form. 2. Correct rebounding technique (chin ball, elbows protect, pivot away and pass) 3. Passer and shooter receive in ready position (be low). 4. Passer passes to "shooting pocket". 41

42 Basketball Drill 31 Pass, Shoot and Box Out Name: Pass, Shoot and Box Out Type: Shooting, Boxing Out Drill Instruction: Players are in pairs. Player 1 is on perimeter in shooting range, player 2 is under basket with ball. Player 2 passes to player 1. Player 1 takes one strong dribble either side into a shot. Player 2 as soon as they pass the ball is closing out, trying to pressure the shot and boxing out once the shot is made. Both players go for the rebound. If offense gets the rebound they should try and score. Player that gets the rebound is offense on next repetition. Variations: Use different parts of the floor. Have 2-3 pairs at each basket and use as many baskets as you have. Points of Emphasis: 1. Correct shooting form. 2. Dribble to go somewhere. 3. Stay low and go up into the shot. 4. Close out properly. 5. Make contact on the box out. 6. Compete for the rebound. 42

43 Basketball Drill 32 Penetrate and Dish Name: Penetrate and Dish Type: Offense Drill Instruction: This drill is designed to teach the skills of dribble penetration into the key and passing the ball of to a teammate who have placed themselves in a good position. The drill can be run from a 3 on 2 set (see diagram A & B), and can be run with the dribble penetration coming from any area of the offensive court (e.g. diagram A shows penetration from the point, diagram B shows penetration from the wing). Diagram C shows one of the possible sets when running the drill 4 on 3. Have the penetrating dribbler undefended with a defender on each of the other offensive players. Dribble penetration should "split" two of the defenders. Receivers must read their defender and cut to an advantageous position. Dribbler should pass to best option but can continue drive to basket if Defence sag off. Variations: 1. 3 on 2, 4 on 3 or 5 on Run from all parts of floor. Points of Emphasis: 1. Direct penetration between the defenders - attack the gaps. 2. Drive to score. 3. Get into the key (two feet in the key). 4. Receivers read the Defence and the dribbler. 5. Receivers face dribbler in ready position. 6. Receivers cut to the basket. 43

44 Basketball Drill 33 Pepper Name: Pepper Type: Passing / receiving Drill Instruction: Players form a semi-circle around one of the players. Note that the player in the middle is a step inside the circle - this ensures she has to use her peripheral vision to see the players on the ends of the semi-circle. The player in the middle and the player on one end each has a ball. Player 1 passes to player 3 and then receives the pass from player 2. Player 1 passes to player 4 and then receives the pass from player 3. The play continues like this, and then returns in the opposite direction around the circle. Players then rotate so each has a turn as the middle passer. Variations: 1. Specify the types of passes to be made. 2. Make a rule that the middle passer must make a different type of pass than they just received. 3. Time each player for a certain number of rotations. Points of Emphasis: 1. Good, hard passes. 2. Quickness (but don't hurry). 3. Show "ten fingers" to receive the ball. 44

45 Basketball Drill 34 Pig in the Middle Name: Pig in the Middle Type: Passing, Defence Drill Instruction: Players are in groups of three. Players 1 and 2 stands about 3-4 metres apart with third player in between. They must make passes to each other while X1 attempts to get a hand on the ball. X1 must play aggressive Defence on ball handler, rather than sagging off. As soon as X1 gets hand on ball he swaps position with the passer. Variations: 1. Place time limit on passer (e.g. X1 counts to 3 seconds) and passer must pass the ball before time expires. Points of Emphasis: 1. Fake a pass to make a pass. 2. Passer must attack the defender. Step into / around defender to make pass. 3. Defender must call "ball" every time. 45

46 Basketball Drill 35 Pivot Away, Two on One Name: Pivot Away, Two on One Type: Pivoting, Offense Drill Instruction: Players form three lines at centre line. Player in middle line receives pass from coach at free-throw line and one player from each of the other lines follow to play Defence. Player 1 with ball must keep ball away from the two defenders for 5 seconds by pivoting and ball movement. The end of the five second count is announced by the coach and the player tries to split the defenders and make a drive to basket. Players return to a different line. Variations: 1. After 5 second count player passes to coach. Points of Emphasis: 1. Stay low and pivot aggressively. 2. Move ball strongly and vary position of ball up and down. 3. Strong step-through. 4. Good double-team technique by defenders. 46

47 Basketball Drill 36 Post Moves Name: Post Moves Type: Individual Offense, Defence Drill Instruction: Players are in groups of three. Player 1 is perimeter passer, player 5 is offensive post, X5 is defensive post. Player 5 posts up looking for pass from player 1. Player 1 can dribble from wing to corner and back along three point line. Post should attempt to post-up strong or seal defender if possible. Upon receiving pass, post reads Defence and makes appropriate move. This could include, a) Dropstep baseline into power lay-up. b) Drop-step middle into baby hook. c) Turn and face, bank shot. d) Turn and face, drive middle. e) Turn and face, up and under (crossover into power lay-up). Post can pass back out if a good shot isn't available. Players rotate X5 becomes perimeter passer, post offense becomes post Defence, perimeter passer becomes post offense. Use two groups at each basket. Variations: 1. Token Defence only for beginners (coach may instruct defender to overplay one side for offense to practice certain moves). Points of Emphasis: 1. Jump stop when receive pass. 2. Chin ball, elbows out, low stance. 3. Read the Defence - take what they give you. 4. Avoid rapid movement on offense, rather use your body and leverage to gain position. 5. Get body parallel to backboard for power-lay-up. 6. Go up strong, protect ball with inside arm / elbow. 7. Pump fake. 8. Slash arm, inside leg technique. 9. Defence half-front high or low depending upon position of ball. Correct footwork in front of offense post to change from one position to the other. 47

48 Basketball Drill 37 Power Post Pickups Name: Power Post Pickups Type: Power lay-ups Drill Instruction: Two balls are placed on the low blocks. One player is the post shooter, two other players are to rebound balls and place them back on the low blocks after each shot. Post shooter starts in middle of lane and alternately picks up each ball off low block and makes post move to the basket (maximum of one power dribble allowed). Players rotate positions after specified time. Variations: 1. Specify types of move to be made (e.g. drop-step baseline into power lay-up, drop-step middle into baby hook etc.). 2. Most baskets in certain time (e.g. one minute). Points of Emphasis: 1. Work hard. 2. Concentrate on footwork. 3. Get body parallel to backboard for power lay-ups. 4. Put the ball up strong with two hands well above the ring. 48

49 Basketball Drill 38 Pride Name: Pride Type: Transition, Conditioning Drill Instruction: Drill starts with a five on zero offensive transition and score. On score, all players sprint to defensive positions and get into defensive stance and execute "footfire" or defensive "pitter-patter" until coach passes one of them the ball when they return to offensive transition and repeat. After two repetitions swap out to new team or bring in fresh players. Variations: 1. Coach might award points for correct execution, hustle and effort. 2. Players do drill until certain points score is reached. Points of Emphasis: 1. On offense, fill the lanes. 2. On Defence, sprint back while seeing the "ball". 49

50 Basketball Drill 39 Shell Name: Shell Type: Team Defence Drill Instruction: Four players assume offensive positions at guard and wing or corner positions. Four players assume defensive positions based on the following rules, a) If your man has the ball play him - push to sideline, no penetration. b) If your man is one pass away - play deny stance in passing lane. c) If your man is two passes away - play in the key in help position. d) If your man is more than two passes away - play on the split line in help position. On ball movement all defensive players move to correct position. On receiving pass offense must always catch and face. When first teaching shell drill have offense hold ball for two second count before passing. Rotate offense to Defence. Variations: The shell drill should be run in the following progression. Build up to latter stages over number of sessions. 1. Stationary offense - Defence allow passes. This stage is so defenders get used to movement into correct positions. 50

51 2. Offense move (v-cuts and replace only) - Defence allow passes. 3. Offense move (v-cuts and replace only) - deny passes. 4. Allow penetration only - defensive help. 5. Allow offense to exchange positions. 6. Allow screens. 7. Live four-on-four. Depending upon the defensive emphasis you may want high defenders to sag and guard against penetration rather than denying pass. Points of Emphasis: 1. Jump to the ball - as pass is made - not once it gets there - "fly with the ball". 2. See the ball and your man - point your pistols. 3. Stance, stance, stance, stance - low, low, low, low. Must be lower than the player you are guarding. 4. Correct footwork - slides, drop step, close-outs. 5. Three main jobs are pressure on pass or shot, stop penetration, help your team-mates. 51

52 Basketball Drill 40 Slide Run Slide Name: Slide Run Slide Type: Defence Drill Instruction: Players start at baseline facing out of court in defensive stance. Players are playing against an "imaginary opponent" initially. They begin by defensive sliding two or three steps then pretend they have been beaten and move to a run (sprint) to catch up, then return to defensive stance / slide, then repeat to other end of court. Variations: 1. Add an opponent with ball rather than imaginary opponent. 2. Add an opponent moving without ball (harder for defence). 3. Defender holds towel behind back (concentrate on footwork). Points of Emphasis: 1. Correct defensive footwork - stay low. 2. Sprint. 3. Effort. 52

53 Basketball Drill 41 Star Name: Star Type: Passing / receiving, lay-ups Drill Instruction: Players line up as shown in diagram. Two players (3 & 4) are a step off each low free-throw lane position, two players (2 & 5) are a step off each elbow. The remaining players line up behind the baseline, the first person in line with a ball. Player 1 passes to player 2 and follows her pass (taking 2's position). Player 2 passes to player 3 and follows her pass. Player 3 passes to player 4 and follows her pass. Player 4 passes to player 5 and follows her pass. Player 5 drives hard to the basket for lay-up, only one dribble (two for beginners) allowed. Players rebound own shots and hand-off ball to next player in line, then move to the end of the line. Drill continues in same manner. Variations: 1. Use two balls at once. Enter second ball just after first ball is passed from position 3 to position Reverse the direction (for left-hand lay-ups). 3. Specify the type of pass to be made (e.g. chest, bounce, overhead). 4. Vary type of lay-up (e.g. reverse, two-foot stop into power lay-up etc.). 5. Take short jump-shot off dribble rather than lay-up. Points of Emphasis: 1. All passes to be hard and accurate. 2. Call the passers name and "show ten fingers" to receive the ball. 3. Step forward to make and receive the pass. 4. Hard drives to the basket with correct lay-up form. 53

54 Basketball Drill 42 Ten Fingers Name: Ten Fingers Type: Cutting, Passing, Shooting Drill Instruction: Players form two lines outside three-point line. All players, except for first in each line have a ball. First players in each line run into key and v-cut back to ball. Players "show ten fingers" and call to receive ball from next player in line. After receiving pass they square up to basket and either shoot, dribble / drive for lay-up or dribble into jump shot. Passer can repeat move once shooter has gone to basket or shot the ball. Players rebound their own balls and dribble back up court to end of lines. They are coming back through subsequent pairs who are completing drill (creating traffic). Variations: 1. If full-court available, have players dribble to opposite end for a lay-up before they return to lines. Points of Emphasis: 1. Plant foot and push off hard for good change of direction on cut. 2. Showing "ten fingers" and calling for ball. 3. Catch and face into triple threat. 54

55 Basketball Drill 43 Terminator Name: Terminator Type: Dribbling Drill Instruction: Vary the court space used depending upon the size of your group. For a group of eight to ten start off within the three point line and baseline. Each player has a ball and must dribble continuously within the designated area whilst trying to knock away the ball from other players. Any player who cannot maintain their dribble or goes outside of the designated area is out and should step out of the designated area. As number of players reduces further restrict the playing area (e.g. key, circle, top half of circle). Last player left wins. Variations: 1. Players only use weak hand to dribble. Points of Emphasis: 1. Head up 2. Correct dribbling technique - fingertip control - use the wrist - push the ball to the floor. 3. Low dribbling stance - protection stance. 55

56 Basketball Drill 44 Three on Two, Two on One Name: Three on Two, Two on One Type: Transition Drill Instruction: Two players assume "tandem" defensive position at one end, all other players form 3 lines at baseline at opposite end. Player in middle line has ball. Three players (first in each line) bring ball down court to play 3 on 2 versus the two defenders. As soon as defenders get ball, or a score is made, the two defenders play 2 on 1 in the opposite direction against either, a) the shooter, in the case a shot was just taken (made or missed), or, b) the person who turned over the ball, in the case an interception was made, or violation occurred. The other two offense remain to be Defence for next three players. 56

57 Variations: 1. Have players throw ball off backboard, rebound ball and outlet to start drill rather than just running off lines. 2. Must make certain number of passes in transition. 3. Start next 3 coming down court while 2 on 1 is still coming back (create traffic). Points of Emphasis: 1. Run lanes hard, cut to basket at free-throw line extended. 2. Sprint. 3. Correct defensive play of 3 on 2 situation, that is, a) tandem alignment, b) front defender takes ball, c) rear defender takes first pass and front player drops. 4. Correct offensive play of 3 on 2 situation, that is a) outside players stay wide and cut to basket, b) ball-handler draw front defender c) ball-handler make good pass to most open player and cut to ball-side elbow 5. Driving lane, passing lane concept. 6. Communicate (both offense and Defence). 7. Take the ball to the basket hard. 8. On turnover get straight into offensive transition. 9. On made shot, step out of court and get in-bound pass in quickly, straight into offensive transition. 57

58 Basketball Drill 45 Three-Man Weave Name: Three-Man Weave Type: Offensive transition, passing / receiving. Drill Instruction: Players form three lines at baseline. Player in middle line has ball. Ball is passed in a weave pattern up the court. Players cut behind the person they have passed to (see diagram). Player who receives ball near edge of offensive key makes a hard drive to basket. The other two players form a rebounding triangle and any missed shots are put back after the rebound. After the made basket, the ball is grabbed, the player steps out of bounds and the drill is repeated back down the court. Variations: 1. Players can wait at end of court (rather than coming back) for rest of players in line to come down court and then all take in turns to come back in opposite direction. This way, the next three players can start when the previous three cross halfway. 2. Specify the types of passes to be made. Points of Emphasis: 1. Sprint down the court. 2. Run the lanes - go wide. 3. Communicate - call for the ball. 4. Pass in front of the moving player. 5. No travelling. 6. Ball does not hit the floor. 58

59 Basketball Drill 46 Turning and Channelling the Dribbler Name: Turning and Channelling the Dribbler Type: Individual Defence, Dribbling Drill Instruction: Players in pairs, using both sides of the court. One player in pair is on Defence, she steps onto court with ball and hands offensive player the ball. Each pair must stay on own side of the court. Using good defensive stance and footwork to gain correct position, defensive attempts to turn the dribbler at least three times in the back court and then attempts to channel offensive player to the sideline in the front court. Upon reaching end of court, both players sprint back to other end and re-join line. Next time down, offense and defence swap places. Swap groups to opposite sides of court halfway through allotted time. Variations: 1. Initially Defence should not attempt to get ball. 2. To stress footwork have Defence play with hands holding towel behind back. 3. Add a third player to attempt trap at half-court line. Points of Emphasis: 1. Correct defensive stance and footwork. 2. Nose to ball and overplay to turn dribbler. 3. Quickness. 4. Emphasis is on defensive position and footwork. 5. Dribbler - protect the ball. 59

60 Basketball Drill 47 Two Teams Sliding Name: Two Teams Sliding Type: Defence Drill Instruction: Players line up, in two teams, along sideline as shown in diagram. Alternately, each team slides across floor in a line and returns. When one team returns, other team goes. To emphasize keeping low and defensive stance, players touch hands to floor between their legs 5 times and yell "Defence" (at start, at opposite sideline, twice at mid-court - once on the way and once on the way back- and on return). Players complete 180 degree pivot each time they cross split line. Variations: After a couple of repetitions, have players: 1. Jump in air before touching floor. 2. Sprint from opposite sideline to mid-court on return leg. 3. Close-out from mid-court to opposite sideline. Points of Emphasis: 1. Correct defensive stance and footwork. 2. Pure effort. 3. Teamwork - stay together. 60

61 Basketball Drill 48 Cincinnati Name: Cincinnati Type: Passing, offensive transition Drill Instruction: Players form two lines at half-court. One line in centre of court, the other near one sideline. One player is on free-throw line. First player in line at centre court must have ball. First player in centre line (2), passes to player at free-throw line (1) whilst first player in side line (3) sprints the outside lane. After receiving the pass, player (1) pivots and passes to (3) cutting to the basket. (3) receives pass and performs a lay-up. (3) continues out opposite side of court while (1) rebounds the ball and outlets to (3) who takes one or two dribbles and passes to the next player in centre line who doesn't have a ball. (3) goes to end of centre line, (1) goes to end of side line and (2) moves down to free-throw line to pass / rebound on next rotation. Variations: 1. Move side-line to other side of court. 2. Use two or more balls. Points of Emphasis: 1. Sprint the lane. 2. Drive the lay-up hard. 3. Pass the ball in front of the cutter so they don't have to stop. 61

62 Basketball Drill 49 Create a Lead Name: Create a Lead Type: Offense Drill Instruction: Players form four lines, two at each corner and two at half court. First players in half-court lines have a ball. Players in corner lines move to low post area and then "create a lead" (using the inside leg / inside arm technique). After receiving the pass they face-up to the basket and make a one on one move to the basket. Players rotate lines clockwise so all players get a turn at passing and receiving from both sides of the court. Variations: 1. Use different one-on-one moves to the basket for both shots and lay-ups. 2. Use no-defence, then token Defence, then real Defence on players creating the lead. Then add token, then real Defence to the passers as they become more accomplished. Points of Emphasis: 1. Stress the cut to the basket to make the defender move. 2. Stress the correct inside leg, inside arm in front of the defender technique. 3. Players must face basket after receiving the pass. 4. Explosive one-on-one moves to the basket. 62

63 Basketball Drill 50 Dribble, Cut, Pass & Drive Name: Dribble, Cut, Pass & Drive Type: Offense Drill Instruction: One player sets up on each low block. The remaining players line up at half-court. This line of players is behind coach who is standing on edge of centre circle, facing the basket. Players in line dribble past the coach executing a stated move (hesitation, crossover, reverse etc.) as they pass the coach. After the dribbler is past the coach, the coach signals to post players that one of them is to v-cut by holding out his left or right arm, or by establishing eye contact. Note this is not done until dribbler is past so he cannot see signal. Nominated player executes a good v-cut and receives pass from dribbler. Player then makes move to basket (dribble to jump shot, drive for lay-up etc.). Dribbler replaces post player who received pass. Post player who received pass goes to end of line. Variations: 1. Have other post player close out on receiver and play defence. Points of Emphasis: 1. Good, hard cuts. 2. Timing of guard to wing pass. 3. Pass into "shooting pocket". 4. Hard drives to basket. 63

64 Basketball Drill 51 Half- Court, Two Pass Drill Name: Half-Court, Two Pass Drill Type: Passing, Lay-ups Drill Instruction: Set up with three lines at half-court as shown in diagram. Ball start at one side. As middle line player cuts to ball, opposite wing sprints lane and cuts to basket. A pass to middle player at the top of the circle is followed by a pass to cutter for a lay-up. All players follow shot to form "rebounding triangle". Missed lay-ups must be "put back". Variations: 1. Start from opposite side of court. 2. Cutter receives pass outside key for jump shot. Points of Emphasis: 1. Run it hard, don't stop to receive or pass. 2. Good, hard passes. 64

65 Basketball Drill 52 Triangle Passing Name: Triangle Passing Type: Passing, Receiving Drill Instruction: Players use half-court and form three lines. Two lines are at the half-court corners and the third is under the basket. Players pass to player in next line, who is moving to the ball. Players then move to the end of the line they have just passed to. Variations: 1. Use two balls. 2. Change direction (go anti-clockwise). 3. On vocal command from coach players change direction during the drill. Points of Emphasis: 1. Move to the ball to receive pass. 2. Show "ten fingers" and call passers name. 3. Sprint to the end of the line after passing. 65

66 Basketball Drill 53 Triangle Shooting Name: Triangle Shooting Type: Shooting Drill Instruction: Players form three lines around basket. Players shoot and rebound their shots, pass to next in their line and return to end of line. Rotate positions. Variations: 1. Make it competitive by; a) Seeing which team can make 10 (or any number) of shots first. b) Seeing which team can make most shots from a set number. 2. Change distance of shot. Points of Emphasis: 1. Correct shooting form. 2. Follow the shot and aggressively rebound. 66

67 Section 2 Basketball Terminology Like any sport or discipline, basketball has its own language. A novice could listen to two coaches talking to each other and not have any idea of what they are talking about! This is true in almost any subject. This page will be like a basketball dictionary, trying to define our basketball terms. Realise that sometimes coaches don't completely agree on what something means, and sometimes we have more than one term for the same thing... e.g. a "screen" and a "pick" (same thing to me). Please look at the "half-court" diagram to define areas of the floor. The paint is the area inside the lane lines from the baseline to the free-throw line. If your offensive player has a foot on, or inside these lines for 3 seconds or longer as an offensive threat, he will be called for the 3-second violation. There is no restriction on the time defensive players can occupy the paint. The free throw line is the line you must stand behind when shooting a free-throw. Low post area is the area near the block on either side of the lane or paint area, to about half way up the lane toward the free throw line. High post is that area along the free throw line, and both elbows. The point is out front, and the wings on either side. The top of the key is above the free-throw circle (many years ago, the lane was not as wide as the free-throw line and circle, and so it looked like a key, or keyhole). The short corner is between the corner and the basket, about 4 metres out. Ball-side refers to the side of the floor where the ball is. Weak-side is the opposite side away from the ball. Players cutting on the weak-side toward the hoop, are using the "back-door". 67

68 The half-court line, is the line down the centre of the floor. It divides the full-court (entire playing area) into two half-courts. Your front-court is the half-court with your basket, and the back-court is the half-court with the opponent's basket. Once a team gets possession of the ball, it has eight seconds to get the ball across the half-court line into its front-court. Once across this line (all three points - the ball and both feet), they may not pass or dribble the ball back across this line, or step on the line (while having possession) or the cross court, or over and back violation occurs. The offense may retrieve the ball without penalty if deflected across by a defensive player. The split line is an imaginary line down the centre of the court, from basket to basket. The free throw line extended is an imaginary line that extends the free throw line out to the sidelines. The elbows are the points where the sides of the key join the free throw line. The sides of the court (either side of the split line) are referred to as; the ball side or strong side - the side where the ball is, the help side or weak side - the opposite side to where the ball is. We should also think of the court as being divided into three lanes and make sure that we always have players running down the court in each of them when we fast break, rather than running down too closely together. 68

69 Numbering players, offensive terminology. Years ago, numbers were not used. You usually had two guards who played the perimeter and brought the ball up the floor. The centre usually played around the high-post area, and the two forwards, started in the short corner to corner areas, extending out to the wings. Now, most coaches use a numbering system, as the old definitions often do not apply any more, with players playing in multiple offensive formations. Using a numbering system, makes it easier for coaches and players to understand plays, sets, and know their roles. Different numbering systems exist, and coaches have their own favourite ways of doing this. The diagram below shows a 3-2 set. The point guard is O1. The right wing is O2, and the left wing is O3. The right low post is O4, and the left low post is O5. O2 is usually the shooting guard, O3 is the small forward, O4 is the power forward, and O5 is the centre or strong post player. This is easy for young players plays to learn if you tell them that the even numbers (2 and 4) are on the right side, and the odd numbers (3 and 5) are on the left. In this set, you have three guards, or perimeter players, and two post players, rather than the old definition of two guards, two forwards and a centre. In a set, you would bring one of the low posts up to the high-post area. In a 1-4 set, you bring both post players up to the elbows (stack offense), or you can drop both wings down to the corners (low stack). You could use a 4-out, 1-in offense with four perimeter players and one post player. The open post offense (5-out) is yet another. Pick and roll -- a play where an offensive player sets a screen (pick) on a team-mate's defender, thereby freeing up the team-mate, after which the screener moves, or rolls off the screen to the hoop, or an open area for the return pass. Give and go -- a very basic play where after passing to a team-mate, the passer quickly cuts toward the basket, and receives the return pass back from his team-mate for the lay-up. 69

70 Reverse the ball -- this means to quickly move the ball, by passing, to the opposite side of the forecourt, either by a series of quick passes, or by means of a skip pass (a pass directly across court, thereby skipping one or more offensive players in the succession around the perimeter). You may want to reverse the ball quickly to over-shift a zone defence. By moving some of your offensive players to one side of the floor (e.g. against a zone defence), you over-load the zone. Post up -- offensive move wherein a low post player positions himself, and seals his defender off so that he can receive the pass down low on the block, where he can use a post move for a score, or quickly pass the ball back outside to an open team-mate for a three-pointer (going inside-out). There are other common basketball terms such as triple threat position, jab-step and perimeter one-on-one moves. Out-of-bounds plays are used in an attempt to get a quick scoring opportunity when you have to in-bounds the ball (either under your basket, or along the sideline.) Defensive basketball terms. Man-to-man defence -- each defensive player is assigned to guard a specific opposing player. He may switch his player with another team-mate if he gets screened. Man-to-man defenders must learn the meaning of on-ball (defending the player with the ball), deny (preventing your man from getting the ball), and help-side (sagging off your man to help your team-mates prevent inside penetration (see Basic Defence). The term close-out, refers to the method in which a defender quickly slides up to, and contains the ball-handler, or ball-receiver. There are the terms, on the line and up the line. These two terms refer to a defender's position on the floor, relative to the ball-handler and his man. Use this illustration... stretch a rope between the ball-hander and your man (let's say between the point guard and the wing). On the line means your defensive position is such that you can see your man and the ball, and your body is directly on that imaginary line usually with chest toward the player, and head toward the ball with arm up in the passing lane, in a full denial situation. Up the line means you are in a position backed off from this imaginary line, toward the basket, in a position where you can see both ball and your man, prevent the back-cut, and yet be able to force the ball-handler to pass away from your man. The farther apart the ball-hander and the wing player are, the more the defender can drop back up the line, and still be in position to intercept or deflect the pass. A trap is set when two defenders double-team the ball-handler, trying to force a turn-over or a jump-ball situation. Front the low post -- on defence, this has to do with how you defend the low post player. The defender can stay between him and the basket, or get out in front of him between the low post player and the passer, so to deny him the pass. 70

71 Box-out -- what every player should do when a shot goes up... try to block out, or box-out, the person he is guarding to keep him away from the basket and prevent him from getting inside position for the rebound. Zone defence -- each defender, rather than guarding a specific opposing player, is assigned to guard or cover a certain area of the floor, or zone. Transition is the process of changing from defence to offense, or vice-versa. Transition offense is the former, and transition defence is the latter. Transition offensive strategy may involve a fullcourt fast break, or a secondary break wherein the offense attempts to quickly move the ball up the floor in hopes of getting the easy lay-up. Transition defence may be simply getting back down the floor as quickly as possible on defence, or may involve a full-court press, which can be man-to-man, or a zone press. Against a full-court press defence, the offense will often use a press-breaker, a play designed to counteract the fullcourt press. 71

72 Section 3 Skills Checklist The Hills Raiders Basketball Association Skills Checklist is a tool that we use for the progressive introduction of basketball skills to our junior players. Coaches should use the guide for the introduction of fundamentals to specific age groups and measure the level of proficiency indicated against the age groups you are coaching. The checklist legend is as follows: I = Introduce, R = Refine, M = Master 72

73 Body Movement Fundamentals U8 U10 U12 U14 U16 U18 Running I R M Change of pace I R M Change of direction I R M Stopping jump stops & stride stops I R M Jumping I R M Pivoting forward & reverse I R M Ball Handling Drills U8 U10 U12 U14 U16 U18 Various I R M Miscellaneous U8 U10 U12 U14 U16 U18 Court terminology I R M Player positions / roles I R M Dribbling (strong and weak hands) U8 U10 U12 U14 U16 U18 Fundamentals I R M Speed dribble I R M Control dribble I R M Power dribble I R M Retreat dribble I R M Change of pace / stutter / hesitation dribble I R M Crossover dribble I R M Reverse (spin) dribble I R M Behind back dribble I R M Fake crossover dribble (inside / out) I R M Between legs dribble I R M Passing / Receiving U8 U10 U12 U14 U16 U18 Fundamentals I R M Catching / receiving ("ten fingers") I R M Move to ball I R M Chest pass I R M Bounce pass I R M Overhead pass I R M Baseball pass I R M Push pass I R M Pass fakes I R M Shooting U8 U10 U12 U14 U16 U18 Fundamentals I R M Lay-up strong hand I R M Lay-up weak hand I R M Reverse lay-up I R M Set shot I R M Jump shot I R M Foul shots I R M Power lay-up I R M Hook shots I R M Catch & shoot I R M Dribble & shoot I R M 73

74 Individual Offense U8 U10 U12 U14 U16 U18 Triple threat position I R M Jab step strong side drive I R M Jab step crossover I R M Jab step shoot I R M Shot fakes I R M Posting up technique & target hand I R M Post moves drop-step I R M Post moves turn-around I R M V-cuts I R M Flash cuts I R M Flare cuts I R M Curl cuts I R M Rebounding U8 U10 U12 U14 U16 U18 Stance I R M Protection of ball I R M Positioning I R M Blocking out I R M Offensive power layup I R M Defensive outlet pass, power dribble out I R M Team Offense U8 U10 U12 U14 U16 U18 Court spacing I R M Ball movement, ball reversal I R M Pass, cut & replace I R M Give & go I R M Dribble entries I R M Screen the ball & roll I R M Screen away I R M Skip passes I R M Back screens I R M Down screens I R M Cross screens I R M Offensive alignments I R M Fast break I R M Motion offense principles I R M Zone offense principles I R M Delay game I R M Out-Of-Bounds Plays U8 U10 U12 U14 U16 U18 Offensive baseline I R M Defensive baseline I R M Offensive sideline I R M Defensive sideline I R M Jump Ball U8 U10 U12 U14 U16 U18 Positioning (offensive & defensive) I R M Technique I R M Plays I R M 74

75 Individual Defence U8 U10 U12 U14 U16 U18 Defensive stance I R M Maintaining position I R M Footwork shuffle I R M Footwork drop-step I R M Use of hands I R M Turning the dribbler I R M Channelling the dribbler I R M Man-to-man guarding the ballhandler I R M Man-to-man one pass away I R M Man-to-man two or more passes away I R M Defensive triangle ("pointing pistols") I R M Jumping to the ball I R M Close out I R M Defending cutters I R M Defending screens I R M Defending post players I R M Taking the charge I R M Team Defence U8 U10 U12 U14 U16 U18 Half-court man-to-man I R M Full-court man-to-man I R M Rotation principles I R M Zone press I R M Run and jump I R M Zone Defence(2-1-2, 1-2-2, 1-3-1) I R M Fastbreak defence I R M Trapping I R M Rules U8 U10 U12 U14 U16 U18 Scoring I R/M Double (illegal) dribble I R/M Travel I R/M Backcourt violation I R/M Jump ball start of each half I R/M Jump ball held ball I R/M Fouls hands I R/M Fouls blocking I R/M Fouls on shooter I R/M Five fouls on a player I R/M Eight team fouls I R/M 3 seconds in key I R M 5 seconds guarded I R M 10 seconds in backcourt I R M Jump balls held ball I R M Out of bounds I R M In-bounds passes and Defence of I R M Free throws player positions and rules I R M I = Introduce, R = Refine, M = Master 75

76 Section 4 Weekly Session Training Plans The intent of these training plans is to develop skills in a progressive manner. Each is set up for a one hour training session and has reference back to the skills in Section 1, Basketball Homework sheets in Section 5, Basketball Player Handouts in Section 6. Out of Bounds Plays in Section 7 and Offensive Plays in Section 8. 76

77 Weekly Training Session Plan Week 1 Duration: Major objective: Point of Emphasis: 1 hour Review players fundamental skill levels and fitness. Teaching emphasis is defensive skills. Time in minutes Skill / Drill Drill Ref # Coaching Emphasis 10 Warm-up drills Lay-up and Rebounding Lines Line Running Drills Line Dribbling Drills Stretching Correct lay-up form - strong rebounds. Footwork, balance. Pivoting technique. Head-up - speed and protection dribbles, change of pace. 10 Defensive Stance and Footwork Mass Defensive Drill Mirror Drills Low stance, quick feet, "wide then wider". Quickness, effort. 15 Team Man-Man Defence in Backcourt Shell Drill 39 Ball side / weak side / split line. Flat triangle - see your man & ball, "point the pistols". On ball and deny stance. Communication - "Ball", "Dead", "Help", "Shot". Help and recover. Passes only - token defence - teach players to move to correct positions. "Jump to the ball". 10 Defending the Dribbler Slide Run Slide Turning and Channelling the Dribbler Turn in the backcourt, channel to sideline / baseline in the backcourt. 5 Mushball 28 Free-throw routine and form. Strong to the basket. 10 Scrimmage No dribbles for first five minutes. Comments: Handouts: Player Homework 1 77

78 Weekly Training Session Plan Week 2 Duration: Major objective: Point of Emphasis: 1 hour Review players fundamental skill levels and fitness. Teaching emphasis is dribbling and passing skills. Time in minutes Skill / Drill Drill Ref # Coaching Emphasis 10 Warm-up drills Lay-up And Rebounding Lines Three-Man Weave Star Drill Stretching Shell Drill Mass Defensive Drill Turning and Channelling the Dribbler 15 Passing Technique Pepper Drill Bull in the Ring Communicate. Stance & footwork.. Chest, bounce & push passes. Step to pass and receive. Use of wrists. Peripheral vision. "Fake a pass to make a pass". 15 Dribbling Technique Line Dribbling Drills Chill Drill 16 3 Keep your head up. Use fingertips. Control and protection of ball. Keep ball low on crossover. Don't carry ball on reverse. 5 Fifty Passes 6 Defence organise and man-up. Offense make good passes. 5 Mushball 28 Free-throw routine and form. Strong to the basket. Comments: Handouts: 78

79 Weekly Training Session Plan Week 3 Duration: Major objective: Point of Emphasis: 1 hour Review players fundamental skill levels and fitness Teaching emphasis is offensive skills Time in minutes Skill / Drill Drill Ref # Coaching Emphasis 10 Warm-up drills Ball handling drills Horseshoe Shooting Line Dribbling Drills Stretching PH Keep your head up. Intensity, receive in shooting position. Crossover - keep it low. 10 Shell Drill Two Teams Sliding Review last week s teachings. Intensity, defensive stance and footwork. 15 Triple Threat Position / Jab Step One on One 29 Balanced, low stance. Short jab step, strong side and crossover. 15 V-Cuts / Backdoor Cuts Motion Offense - Cutting to Get Open Ten Fingers Only token (cooperative) defence. Explosive cut, catch and face. 5 Knockout 14 5 Scrimmage Comments: Handouts: Player Handout 16 Motion Offence Principles 79

80 Weekly Training Session Plan Week 4 Duration: Major objective: Point of Emphasis: 1 hour Transition and defensive team organisation Teaching emphasis is fast-break transition and defensive team organisation, also introduce first two Out of Bounds plays. Time in minutes Skill / Drill Drill Ref # Coaching Emphasis 10 Warm-up drills Line Jumping Drills Line Dribbling Drills Lay-up and Rebounding Lines Stretching PH Keep your head up. Left hand side - left hand dribble & shot.. 15 Team Defensive Organisation Four On Four Recover Shell Drill Two Teams Sliding Man-to-man, pick up at half court. Get back to half-court and find a man. Ensure they all understand their responsibilities at various positions. Stay low, no bobbing heads, heads in middle of bodies, footwork "wide then wider". 20 Fast Break Organisation Three-Man Weave Full Court Lay-ups with Chaser Five on Four Plus One Attack middle, pass ahead, run the lanes. Pass in front of the man running the court. Push ball out in front when speed dribbling. 10 Out of Bounds Plays Offensive Baseline - Box 1 Sideline - Split Line OB1 OB4 5 Mushball 28 Comments: Handouts: Player Handout 13 - Fast Break Responsibilities Player Handout 14 - Team Defensive Rules and Goals Out-Of-Bounds Play 1 - Offensive Baseline - Box 1 Out-Of-Bounds Play 4 - Sideline - Split Line Homework Sheet No 2 80

81 Weekly Training Session Plan Week 5 Duration: Major objective: Point of Emphasis: 1 hour Offensive position and defensive close out Teaching emphasis is offensively, the importance of ball reversal and getting receivers into key and defensively, closing out technique. Time in minutes Skill / Drill Drill Ref # Coaching Emphasis 10 Warm-up drills Pepper Drill Star Drill Line Running Drills Stretching Close Out Technique Close Out Drill 4 Teach bunny-hop and stutter step techniques. Sprint then stance, active hands. 20 Ball Reversal and Receivers Principle Shell Drill Motion Offense - Ball Reversal, Receivers Use to demonstrate moving the help defender 10 Three-Man Weave Four On Four Recover Full Court Lay-ups Review of fast break rules from last week 5 One on One 29 Catch and face, concentrate on jab step and strong side drive. 5 Terminator 43 Comments: Handouts: 81

82 Weekly Training Session Plan Week 6 Duration: Major objective: Point of Emphasis: 1 hour Defence and Offense position and plays Reinforce defensive effort, hustle. Review two OOB plays and introduce two more. Review v-cuts, ball reversal and receiver s principle. Time in minutes Skill / Drill Drill Ref # Coaching Emphasis 10 Warm-up drills Lay-up And Rebounding Lines Line Running Drills Line Dribbling Drills Stretching Shell Drill Two Teams Sliding Offense move ball quickly, force defence to jump to ball, close out. Stress communication. 25 Out of Bounds Plays Offensive Baseline - Box 1 Sideline - Split Line Offensive Baseline - Stack 1 Offensive Baseline - Stack 2 OB1 OB4 OB2 OB3 Review - stress pass to screener as they turn. Review - stress tight group. 10 Motion Offence Ball Reversal, Receivers 20 5 Knock out 14 Comments: Handouts: Out-Of-Bounds Play 2 - Offensive Baseline - Stack 1 Out-Of-Bounds Play 5 - Offensive Baseline - Stack 2 82

83 Weekly Training Session Plan Week 7 Duration: Major objective: Point of Emphasis: 1 hour Review players fundamental skill levels and fitness Teaching emphasis is defensive skills Time in minutes Skill / Drill Drill Ref # Coaching Emphasis 10 Warm-up drills Horseshoe Shooting Full Court Lay-ups Three-Man Weave Stretching Shoot off one dribble. 5 Mirror Drill Shell Drill Turning and Channelling the Dribbler Active defence, allow penetration to check defensive help. 15 Correct Execution Of 3 On 2 And 2 On 1 (offensively and defensively) Three On Two, Two On One Motion Offense - Cutting to Get Open Motion Offense - Ball Reversal, Receivers V-cut, backdoor cut vs active defence. Quick ball reversal, Two receivers. 5 Slide Run Slide Fingers Comments: Remind players that Homework Sheet No 2 is to be returned next week. Handouts: Player Handout 1 83

84 Weekly Training Session Plan Week 8 Duration: Major objective: Point of Emphasis: 1 hour Defence / Give and Go / Boxing Out Review defensive footwork and close-out technique. Give and Go. Importance of boxing out, correct technique. Time in minutes Skill / Drill Drill Ref # Coaching Emphasis 10 Warm-up drills Terminator Slide Run Slide Full Court Lay-ups Stretching Mass Defensive Drill Close Out Drill 18 4 Lead foot first, "wide then wider". Quick feet. Call "Ball" every time. Don't over commit. 15 Give And Go Motion Offense - Give And Go 23 Cut ball-side if possible. Take defender away first. Give a target hand. Tight cuts. 5 Mushball 28 With suicides 15 Boxing out Pass, Shoot, Box Out 31 Teach in pairs, forward and reverse pivots, make contact, be wide and balanced. 5 Scrimmage Comments: Handouts: Homework Sheet No 3 84

85 Weekly Training Session Plan Week 9 Duration: Major objective: Point of Emphasis: 1 hour Passing and Posting Passing technique (especially baseball pass, faking and aggressively finding the passing lane). Post one on one moves. Time in minutes Skill / Drill Drill Ref # Coaching Emphasis 10 Warm-up drills Pepper drill Lay-up and Rebounding Lines Chill Drill Stretching Baseball Pass Full Court Lay-ups with Chaser 11 Teach technique and practice with a partner. 15 Pig in the Middle Bull in the Ring Fifty Passes "Fake a pass to make a pass". Passing lanes. Step into defender. 15 Post one on one moves Post moves No defence. Jump stop and 3 C's (catch, chin, check). Drop-step baseline into power lay-up. Turn high and face into shot and crossover. 5 Knockout 14 Shooting technique 5 Terminator 43 Head up. Comments: Handouts: 85

86 Weekly Training Session Plan Week 10 Duration: Major objective: Point of Emphasis: 1 hour One on One / Defensive Transition More post one on one moves. One on one from perimeter. Defensive transition. Time in minutes Skill / Drill Drill Ref # Coaching Emphasis 10 Warm-up drills Full Court Lay-ups Ten Fingers Terminator Stretching Defensive Transition Slide Run Slide Pride Drill Four on Four Recover Get back behind halfway line and find a man. On the ball slow them down - turn the dribbler in the backcourt. Stance and footwork. 10 One on One Post Moves 36 Introduce drop step middle into baby hook, review last week. 10 Offensive Baseline - Box 1 Sideline - Split Line Offensive Baseline - Stack 1 Offensive Baseline - Stack 2 OB1 OB4 OB2 OB3 Review and practice out-of-bounds plays. 5 Pass, Shoot And Rebound 30 Make contact. Comments: Handouts: 86

87 Weekly Training Session Plan Week 11 Duration: Major objective: Point of Emphasis: 1 hour Defence / Motion Defending the low post. Dribble entries into motion. Time in minutes Skill / Drill Drill Ref # Coaching Emphasis 10 Warm-up drills Pig In The Middle Terminator Horseshoe Shooting Stretching Shell Drill 39 Offense can cut after passing ball. 15 Defending the low post player Post Moves 36 Side front (high or low depending upon ball position). 5 Five Corner Passing 7 15 Dribble Entry Options into Motion Motion Offense - Dribble Entries 22 Read the defence and your teammates cut. 5 Mushball 28 Comments: Remind players that Homework Sheet No 3 is to be returned next week. Handouts: 87

88 Weekly Training Session Plan Week 12 Duration: Major objective: Point of Emphasis: 1 hour Offensive alignments Offensive alignments for motion, 3 Out 2 In. Motion options between perimeter and post. Time in minutes Skill / Drill Drill Ref # Coaching Emphasis 10 Warm-up drills Five Corner Passing Star Drill Full Court Lay-ups with Chaser Stretching Two Teams Sliding Turning and Channelling the Dribbler Hustle - "defence" Defence hands behind back holding towel - footwork Out 2 In Offensive Alignment Rules Shell Drill 39 Offense plays by 3 Out 2 In rules, play "live" 5 on 5 shell (coaches play if extra numbers needed). 10 Motion Options Between Perimeter and Post Motion Offense - Perimeter to Post 24 Pass to high post, wing cuts backdoor. Pass to low post, guard cuts to basket. Read defence on post. 10 One on One 29 5 Three on Two, Two on One 44 Comments: Handouts: Homework Sheet No 4 88

89 Weekly Training Session Plan Week 13 Duration: Major objective: Point of Emphasis: 1 hour Defence and Motion Review Review of defensive principles to date. Review of motion principles to date. Time in minutes Skill / Drill Drill Ref # Coaching Emphasis 10 Warm-up drills Full Court Lay-ups Line Running drills Ten Fingers Stretching Mass Defensive Drill Mirror Drills Close Out Drill Shell Drill Motion Offense - Cutting to Get Open Motion Offense - Ball Reversal, Receivers Motion Offense - Give and Go Motion Offense - Dribble Entries Motion Offense - Perimeter To Post Drill 20A & 20D combine v-cuts, ball reversal and receiver s principle. Run against defence. 5 Knockout 14 Comments: Handouts: 89

90 Weekly Training Session Plan Week 14 Duration: Major objective: Point of Emphasis: 1 hour Screening Introduce screening principles. Time in minutes Skill / Drill Drill Ref # Coaching Emphasis 10 Warm-up drills Five Corner Passing Horseshoe Shooting Line Jumping drills Stretching 7 13 PH10 15 Slide Run Slide Turning and Channelling the Dribbler Screening Principles Motion Offense - Screen Away Motion Offense - Screen and Roll Token (cooperative) defence only. Wide stance, contact defence (don't push). Cutter waits until screen set. Communicate and read defence. 10 Three On Two, Two On One 44 Get the ball down the floor quickly. 10 Full Court Four Line Passing 10 Comments: Handouts: Player Handout No 15 - Screening 90

91 Weekly Training Session Plan Week 15 Duration: Major objective: Point of Emphasis: 1 hour Screening / Out of Bounds / Motion Offense Review screening principles on screen away and screen and roll. Introduce two new OOB plays. 1-4 motion offense. Time in minutes Skill / Drill Drill Ref # Coaching Emphasis 10 Warm-up drills Full Court Lay-ups with Chaser Full Court Four Line Passing Slide Run Slide Stretching Mirror Drills Close Out Drill Motion Offense - Screen Away Motion Offense - Screen and Roll Add token Defenceon screener and cutter. 10 Out of Bounds Plays Sideline - Box 2 Sideline Screener OB5 OB Motion Offense Breakdown drills OF2 5 Pass, Shoot And Rebound 30 Make contact and hold offense - get rebound after it bounces. Comments: Remind players that Homework Sheet No 4 is to be returned next week. Handouts: Out-Of-Bounds Play 5 - Sideline - Box 2 Out-Of-Bounds Play 6 - Sideline - Screener 1-4 Motion Offense 91

92 Weekly Training Session Plan Week 16 Duration: Major objective: Point of Emphasis: 1 hour Screening / Out of bound plays / Motion Offense Review screening principles on screen away and screen and roll. Introduce two new Out of Bounds plays. 1-4 motion offense. Time in minutes Skill / Drill Drill Ref # Coaching Emphasis 10 Warm-up drills Pig In The Middle Pepper Drill Three-Man Weave Stretching Mass Defensive Drill Turning and Channelling the Dribbler Shell Drill Communicate, communicate, communicate! 15 Defence Against Screens Motion Offense - Screen Away Motion Offense - Screen and Roll Screeners defender - show numbers and recover. Cutters defender - fight over screen. 15 Out of Bounds Plays Sideline - Box 2 Sideline Screener Defensive Baseline - Call A Number Isolate OB5 OB6 OB7 OB8 Groups of 3 to practice getting open against defence. Groups of 4 if you want defence on in bounder Motion Offense Breakdown drills Comments: OF2 Handouts: Out-Of-Bounds Play 7 - Defensive Baseline - Call A Number Out-Of-Bounds Play 8 - Isolate Homework Sheet No 5 92

93 Weekly Training Session Plan Week 17 Duration: Major objective: Point of Emphasis: 1 hour Posting / Dribble Penetration Two post cooperation principles. Dribble penetration. Time in minutes Skill / Drill Drill Ref # Coaching Emphasis 10 Warm-up drills Full Court Four Line Passing Three-Man Weave Full Court Lay-ups Stretching Close Out Drill Two Teams Sliding Shell Drill Two Post Cooperation Principles Motion Offense - Post Players 25 Pass to high post, low post seals. Pass to low post, high post cuts to basket. Cross-screen. 10 Motion Offense - Ball Reversal, Receivers Penetrate and Dish Attack the gaps. 10 Four On Four Recover Five On Four Plus One 9 8 Comments: Handouts: 93

94 Weekly Training Session Plan Week 18 Duration: 1 hour Major objective: Motion Point of Emphasis: Motion Offense Time in minutes Skill / Drill Drill Ref # Coaching Emphasis 10 Warm-up drills Full Court Lay-ups With Chaser Ball Handling Drills Chill Drill Stretching 11 PH Slide Run Slide Turning and Channelling the Dribbler Close Out Drill Shell Drill Motion Offense Breakdown drills OF1 10 Three-Minute Rotation Drills Power Post Pickups Pass, Shoot and Rebound Defensive Shuffle And Pass Comments: Split into groups of three and have each group perform each drill for three minutes. Players rotate positions within the drills every minute. Players rotate to different drill after 3 minutes. Players count scores (baskets in first two, passes in last) and group with highest combined score after 9 minutes is winner. Handouts: Motion Offense 94

95 Weekly Training Session Plan Week 19 Duration: 1 hour Major objective: Offense / Defence Point of Emphasis: motion offense Defending cutters Time in minutes Skill / Drill Drill Ref # Coaching Emphasis 10 Warm-up drills Pepper Drill Star Drill Horseshoe Shooting Stretching Turning and Channelling the Dribbler Mass Defensive Drill Shell Drill Motion Offense Breakdown Drills OF1 10 Defending Cutters Bump the Cutter Motion Offense - Cutting to Get Open 2 21 Emphasis on deny defence, snap head and arm on backdoor. 10 Full Court Lay-ups Four on Four Recover Knockout 14 Comments: Remind players that Homework Sheet No 5 is to be returned next week Handouts: 95

96 Weekly Training Session Plan Week 20 Duration: Major objective: Point of Emphasis: 1 hour Review Review of all basics - no new learning. Time in minutes Skill / Drill Drill Ref # Coaching Emphasis 10 Warm-up drills Five Corner Passing Chill Drill Horseshoe Shooting Stretching Mirror Drills Slide Run Slide Close Out Drill Pig In The Middle Pepper Drill Three-Man Weave Horseshoe Shooting Motion Breakdown Drills OF1 10 Scrimmage On offense one team plays 1-3-1, other plays 1-4. Comments: Handouts: Homework Sheet No 6 96

97 Weekly Training Session Plan Week 21 Duration: Major objective: Point of Emphasis: 1 hour Playing under stress Stress offensive and defensive transition. Time in minutes Skill / Drill Drill Ref # Coaching Emphasis 10 Warm-up drills Star Drill Three-Man Weave Horseshoe Shooting Stretching Slide Run Slide Turning and Channelling the Dribbler One on One Three-Minute Rotation Drills Power Post Pickups Pass, Shoot And Rebound Defensive Shuffle And Pass Split into groups of three and have each group perform each drill for three minutes. Players rotate positions within the drills every minute. Players rotate to different drill after 3 minutes. Players count scores (baskets in first two, passes in last) and group with highest combined score after 9 minutes is winner. 5 Three on Two, Two on One Pride Drill Five on Four Plus One 38 8 Comments: Handouts: 97

98 Weekly Training Session Plan Week 22 Duration: Major objective: Point of Emphasis: 1 hour Ball Pressure / Motion Ball pressure on defence. Motion principles. Time in minutes Skill / Drill Drill Ref # Coaching Emphasis 10 Warm-up drills Horseshoe Shooting Full Court Lay-ups With Chaser Ten Fingers Stretching Shell Drill Motion Offense - Ball Reversal, Receivers Close Out Drill Ball pressure, deny, use voice. 15 Pivot Away, Two on One Fifty Passes Scrimmage Stress receivers, dribble penetration on offense. Comments: Handouts: 98

99 Weekly Training Session Plan Week 23 Duration: Major objective: Point of Emphasis: 1 hour Screening / Posting Review screening (offense & defence). Review post work. Time in minutes Skill / Drill Drill Ref # Coaching Emphasis 10 Warm-up drills Ten Fingers Three-Man Weave Lay-up and Rebounding Lines Stretching Mass Defensive Drill Two Teams Sliding Motion Offense - Screen Away Motion Offense - Screen and Roll Post Moves Motion Offense - Post Players Three-Minute Rotation Drills Power Post Pickups Pass, Shoot and Rebound Defensive Shuffle and Pass Comments: Split into groups of three and have each group perform each drill for three minutes. Players rotate positions within the drills every minute. Players rotate to different drill after 3 minutes. Players count scores (baskets in first two, passes in last) and group with highest combined score after 9 minutes is winner. Remind players that Homework Sheet No 6 is to be returned next week. Handouts: 99

100 Weekly Training Session Plan Week 24 Duration: 1 hour Major objective: Offense / Motion Point of Emphasis: Review offenses. Drill motion. Time in minutes Skill / Drill Drill Ref # Coaching Emphasis 10 Warm-up drills Line Dribbling Drills Line Jumping Drills Star Drill Stretching 16 PH Close Out Drill Mirror Drills Shell Drill Out 2 In Motion 1-4 Motion Motion OF2 OF1 Play 4 on 4 structured offenses - coach calls offense each time down the floor. 10 One on One Post Moves Mushball 28 Comments: Handouts: 100

101 Weekly Training Session Plan Week 25 Duration: Major objective: Point of Emphasis: 1 hour Play under Pressure Sharpen up - do everything at game pace! Time in minutes Skill / Drill Drill Ref # Coaching Emphasis 10 Warm-up drills Horseshoe Shooting Pepper Drill Full Court Four Line Passing Stretching Two Teams Sliding Close Out Drill Full Court Lay-ups Penetrate and Dish One on One Post Moves Pass, Shoot, Box Out 31 5 Terminator 43 5 Mushball 28 Comments: Handouts: 101

102 Weekly Training Session Plan Week 26 Duration: 1 hour Major objective: Review Point of Emphasis: Just practice! Time in minutes Skill / Drill Drill Ref # Coaching Emphasis 10 Warm-up drills Ten Fingers Full Court Lay-ups with Chaser Line Dribbling Drills Stretching Shell Drill Turning and Channelling the Dribbler Pass, Shoot, Rebounding Three on Two, Two on One Four on Four Recover Pass, Shoot, Box Out 31 5 Terminator 43 5 Mushball 28 Comments: Handouts: 102

103 Section 5 Player Homework Sheets One hour of practice the average time that teams get to train. This is a very limited time to get your team members up to a reasonable skill level. If the players want to be good basketballers, they will need to practice in their own time to improve their skills. We must encourage fundamentals skills, as the social media influence can inhibit development, and distortion of practice requirements. We recommend the coaches to hand out homework sheets like the ones outlined below once every four weeks. Individual skills and fitness are the focus. Every sheet is different to help the player develop. This will also help you determine those individuals that are committed to improvement. There is enough room to record 12 sessions, with three activities each session. That means the player should find three days during each week over four weeks to complete the homework sheet. We encourage the parents to be invested in their child s development through the signing off each activity. 103

104 Basketball Homework Sheet No 1 Week 1 to 4 One hour of practice is all we have together each week. If you want to be a GREAT basketballer you obviously need to practice more than that. A homework sheet like this one will be handed out every four weeks. It has room on it for you to record 12 sessions, with three activities each session. That means you need to find 3 days during each to complete the homework sheet and hand it in at the end of the four weeks to be returned after completion for your coaches review. Please ensure you write your name in the space provided, the date of the practice, and have a parent initial the square each time you complete an activity. Name Due Date Activity Date Parents Initial Ball Handling Drills (see Player Handout 10) Perform 10 of each of these activities; Body wraps Single leg wraps (Left) Single leg wraps (Right) Figure-8 wraps Blurr - with a bounce Jump Rope Drills Perform 3 sets of 20 of each of these; Two foot jumping Single foot jumping Alternate feet jumping Have a break between sets. Free Throw Shooting If you have a ring at home/local park; How many free-throws does it take you to make 20? Record the number here. 104

105 Basketball Homework Sheet No 2 Week 5 to 8 Name Due Date Activity Date Parents Initial Line Jumping Drills Find a line at home (or draw one with chalk) and perform 20 of each of these activities; 1. Side-on 2 feet jumps 2. Side-on 1 foot jumps (left) 3. Side-on 1 foot jumps (right) 4. Front-on 2 feet jumps 5. Front-on 1 foot jumps (left) 6. Front-on 1 foot jumps (right) Dribbling Drills Perform 50 of each of these; 1. Crossovers in front 2. V-dribble front (left hand) 3. V-dribble front (right hand) 4. V-dribble side (left hand) 5. V-dribble side (right hand) Catch and Face From the elbow, pass to yourself, turn and face into triple threat then; 1. Jab and strong side to lay-up 2. Jab and crossover to lay-up 3. Jab and shot fake, shoot Do 15 of each 105

106 Basketball Homework Sheet No 3 Week 9 to 12 Name Due Date Activity Date Parents Initial Ball Handling Drills (see Player Handout 10) Perform 10 of each of these activities; 1. Body wraps 2. Figure-8 wraps 3. Blurr - with a bounce 4. Finger Tipping (50) 5. Straddle Flip Dribbling Drills Perform each of these for 5minutes; 1. Figure 8 dribble between legs 2. Between the legs dribble Mikan Drill From underneath the basket, lay ball into basket using hook shot, alternating sides each shot. How many can you make in three minutes? 106

107 Basketball Homework Sheet No 4 Week 13 to 16 Name Due Date Activity Date Parents Initial Jump Rope Drills Perform 3 sets of 20 of each of these; 1. Two foot jumping 2. Single foot jumping 3. Alternate feet jumping Have a break between sets. Dribbling Drills Perform each of these for 5 minutes; 1. Dribbling around your body 2. Between the legs dribble Bank Shots From a 45 degree angle to the basket, 1. Make 20 shots from each side from two steps out. 2. Make 20 shots from each side from three steps out. 3. Make 20 shots from each side from four steps out 107

108 Basketball Homework Sheet No 5 Week 17 to 20 Name Due Date Activity Date Parents Initial Ball Handling Drills (see Player Handout 10) Perform 10 of each of these; 1. Figure-8 wraps 2. Blurr - with no bounce 3. Spider Drill Jump Rope Drills Perform 3 sets of 20 of each of these; 1. Two foot jumping 2. Single foot jumping 3. Alternate feet jumping Have a break between sets. Catch and Face From the elbow, pass to yourself, turn and face into triple threat then; 1. Jab and shot fake, shoot 2. Jab, fake, drive shoot. 3. Jab, fake, crossover, shoot. Do 15 of each. 108

109 Basketball Homework Sheet No 6 Week 21 to 24 Name Due Date Activity Date Parents Initial Mikan Drill From underneath the basket, lay ball into basket using hook shot, alternating sides each shot. How many can you make in three minutes? Jump Rope Drills Perform 3 sets of 20 of each of these; 1. Two foot jumping 2. Single foot jumping 3. Alternate feet jumping Bank Shots From a 45 degree angle; 1. Make 20 shots from each side from two steps out. 2. Make 20 shots from each side from three steps out. 3. Make 20 shots from each side from four steps out. 109

110 Section 6 Player Handout Sheets Player Handout sheets are provided to help players with the fundamental skills they require to play basketball. The themes covered are: 1. Lay-ups 2. Shooting 3. Dribbling 4. Stopping and Pivoting 5. Basic Defensive Skills 6. Some Defensive Philosophy 7. Rebounding 8. Triple Threat and Individual Offensive Moves 9. Side Drills 10. Player Positions 11. Court Terminology 12. Fast Break Responsibilities 13. Team Defensive Rules and Goals 14. Screening 15. Motion Offense Principles 110

111 Basketball Player Handout 1 Lay-ups The lay-up is the "basic" basketball shot that everyone should master. With practice, you should never miss a layup. 1. You can take two steps. 2. Always jump off the inside foot (the one closest to the centre of the court). 3. Bring the outside knee up to get extra height in the jump. 4. Jump up, not forward. 5. As you take your steps and jump, bring the ball up with two hands to the shooting position. 6. Shoot with the outside hand, using the inside arm to protect the shot. 7. At the height of the jump, shoot the ball softly off the backboard. 8. Aim for the top corner of the black square. 9. Keep your head up and keep your eyes on the target. The lay-up is one flowing action, not "Stop and shoot". Ideally, approach the basket at an angle of 45 degrees 111

112 Basketball Player Handout 2 Shooting (page 1 of 2) When you are thinking about your shooting technique, remember B-E-E-F. B - is for BALANCE, E - is for ELBOW, E - is for EYES, F - is for FOLLOW-THROUGH Balance 1. Make sure you are "squared-up" to the basket. 2. Make sure your feet are about shoulder width apart, the "shooting foot" (the one on the same side as your shooting arm) slightly in front. 3. Knees bent for balance (and to provide "upward thrust" when you shoot). Elbow 1. Keep the elbow of your shooting arm close to your body - no "chicken wings". 2. During the shot the elbow should come up to your eyebrow level rather than going out in front of your body too much. This makes sure you get plenty of lift on the ball rather than pushing it out in front of you. Eyes 1. Keep your eyes on the target (the basket). Don't watch the ball. Follow-Through 1. When you are holding the ball for the shot your wrist should be "cocked". 2. Release the ball off the fingers and snap the wrist back to put some backspin on the ball. 3. Keep your arm up in the air for a second - it should be like a "gooseneck". 4. Point your index finger at the target at the end of the shot. Holding the Ball 1. If you are holding the ball correctly you should see a "Y" being formed by your thumb, fingers and forearm of your shooting arm. 2. You should hold the ball with the pads of the fingers and thumbs. There should be a gap between the palm of the hand and the ball. 3. The other hand only acts as a guide and is removed from the ball before the shot is released. Angle of the Shot 1. Try and give the ball a nice arc, like the middle line in the diagram here. 2. If you throw the ball too flat it will be harder to get it into the basket. 112

113 Basketball Player Handout 2 Shooting (page 2 of 2) 113

114 Basketball Player Handout 3 Passing (page 1 of 2) Always try for fast, crisp passes - no high lobs or lollipops. If the receiver of your pass is guarded, always pass away from the defender. Look for the passing lanes above and either side of the defender s head. Fake a pass to make a pass. Chest Pass The chest pass is used only when you have a clear path to the receiver. 1. The ball is held close to the chest, keep your elbows close to your body - no "chicken wings". 2. The ball is held in both hands. Hands either side of the ball, fingers spread, thumbs behind the ball. Use the fingers and thumbs to hold the ball, don't use the palms of the hands. 3. Step towards the target and thrust the arms forward. 4. As you pass the ball snap your wrists so that the palms face outward, fingers point towards the target and the thumbs face down. 5. Ball should be aimed above waist height and below shoulder height. Bounce Pass The bounce pass is useful for going underneath the arms of a defender. Execution is the same as a chest pass except the arms are thrust out and down, so that the ball hits the floor about twothirds of the distance to the receiver. The ball should come up to waist level for the receiver. The Overhead Pass The overhead pass is useful when closely guarded, especially if you are taller than your opponent. It is also very useful for an "outlet" pass after a defensive rebound. 1. Hold the ball with both hands, using the finger pads and thumb on the outside of the ball. 2. Hold the ball above your forehead, not behind your head where it is easily stolen. 3. Step towards your target and pass the ball with a snap of the wrist and flick of the fingers. 4. After you have thrown the ball your palms should be facing out, thumbs down and fingers forward. 5. The target area is the receiver s chest or shoulders, or their target hand. 114

115 Basketball Player Handout 3 Passing (page 2 of 2) Push Pass The push pass is perhaps the most common pass used in basketball. It is called a "push pass" because the ball is pushed outwards from the shoulder using one hand. From the triple threat position the pass is made as follows; 1. The wrist and forearm are cocked behind the ball. 2. Step into the pass (using either foot) and push the ball forward. 3. Snap the wrist and fully extend the arm. The other hand is only used to steady the ball until it is released. 4. All players must practice and become proficient at the push pass with both hands. Other important points are; a) The push pass is a quick pass. b) Step into, or around your defender remember you're the boss! c) The push pass can be made high (over the defender s arms if they are low) or low (under the defender s arms if they are high). It can be either a bounce pass or a direct pass. d) Pass to the receiver s target hand. e) Pass away from the defender. f) Fake a pass to make a pass. Use a pass fake in one direction before passing in the other. Keep both hands on the ball for the pass fake. Keep the fake short but believable. Baseball Pass The baseball pass is used when you want to pass longer distances. 1. Ball is up behind the ear with the passing hand behind the ball and the other hand on the front or side of the ball. 2. Step forward with the opposite foot whilst snapping the wrist and fully extending the arm. 3. Follow through with the wrist. 115

116 Basketball Player Handout 4 Dribbling The following key points always apply when using a dribble: 1. Don't over use the dribble. A quick pass is always a better option if you have an open team-mate further up the court. 2. Don't waste your dribble. Wait for your defender to commit and drive past her. Use a big explosive step and don't dribble until you are past her. 3. Keep your head up. Don't look at the ball. If you are looking at the ball you can't see where your team mates are, or where the defenders are. You must be able to see the court. 4. Low is the way to go. Keep the ball below waist height. 5. Use the top of the ball. Keep your dribbling hand on top of the ball - don't carry. 6. Don't slap at the ball. Use your fingertips, not your palms, to push the ball to the floor, getting most of the "push" from your wrist. 7. Spread the fingers. Make sure your fingers are well spread, hand cupped. 8. No flying. Your elbow should be reasonably still, near your hip, with your forearm parallel to the floor. Speed Dribble The speed dribble is used when you are running at full speed down the court with no defender close to you. Key points are: 1. Push the ball out in front of you. 2. The less bounces over a certain distance the better. Protection Dribble The protection dribble is used when a defender is close. Key points are: 1. Adopt the stride stop stance - one foot in front of the other. 2. Knees bent, keep low. 3. Keep the ball slightly lower - about knee height. 4. Always dribble with the hand furthest from the defender, bounce the ball near your back foot. 5. Protect the ball with your body and your free arm. Advanced Dribbles to Practice 1. Crossover 2. Fake crossover (inside out). 3. Behind the back. 4. Between the legs. 5. Reverse (spin) dribble. A basketballer should dribble well with both hands. Practice with your weak hand as much as you can. Don't waste your dribble - use it wisely. Keep your head up and see the whole court. 116

117 Basketball Player Handout 5 Stopping and Pivoting Stopping There are two basic sorts of "stop" in basketball. They are the "Jump Stop" and the "Stride Stop". The following key points apply to both types of stop: 1. Keep your knees flexed (bent). 2. Your feet should be about shoulder width apart. 3. Keep your head above your landing point, don't lean forward or backwards. 4. Keep your hands above your waist and close to your body. The Stride Stop If you catch the ball in mid-air you are allowed to take two steps to stop legally. The first foot to hit the floor, which will be your back foot after you complete the second step of your stop, is your pivot foot. It is easier to stop "legally" using the stride stop when you are moving quickly. The Jump Stop If you can catch the ball in mid-air and land with both feet at the same time, without shuffling your feet, you can choose which of your feet is your pivot foot. Remember to keep your head up, and back side low. Use the jump stop to keep your pivoting options open. This is especially important when playing close to the basket in the low or mid post positions. Pivoting When you come to a stop, and you have the ball, you must keep one foot on the ground, in contact with the same spot on the floor. This foot that stays in the one spot is called your pivot foot. You can change the direction you are facing by turning on the pivot foot and stepping around with the other foot. This is called pivoting. You can pivot forwards (as shown above) or backwards (reverse pivot). Pivot backwards and forwards, changing direction to fool the defender. You should pivot on the ball of your pivot foot, don't try and keep the whole foot in contact with the floor. A pivot should be an aggressive fast movement. Take short steps, don't try and spin right around - you are not doing ballet! Try and keep the pivot "circles" smaller - it will give you much better balance. Try and keep the ankle and knee of the pivot foot bent at close to 90 degrees - again this will give you balance and keep you low. Keep the ball tucked into your chest, with your strong hand behind the ball, or move it aggressively up and down to avoid the defence. Protect the ball with your body and elbows, but don't use your elbows as a weapon. 117

118 Basketball Player Handout 6 Basic Defensive Skills (page 1 of 2) Defence is the key to winning a basketball game. Coaches want players who are willing to work hard at their defence. A good scorer who doesn't work hard on defence is less valuable than a hard-working defender who scores occasionally. Good defence requires the following personal attributes; Willingness to work hard Concentration Aggressiveness Determination Alertness You will also need to understand, and use, the following basic basketball skills; Correct stance Footwork (shuffle and drop step) Maintaining a good defensive position Defensive Stance 1. Keep your feet about shoulder width apart. 2. Have one foot slightly in front of the other. Usually it should be the "inside" foot (the one that is nearest the centre of the court) that is in front. Dictate the direction the offense can take. 3. Keep your weight on the balls of your feet, don't stand flat-footed. 4. Knees bent, backside low, back straight. 5. Keep your head up. The position of your hands depends on whether your man (the one you are defending) is within his shooting range or not. If your man is outside his shooting range (you think he cannot score from where he is) then; Keep your hands at about waist height with your palms facing up or out. If you want to try and knock the ball away, "dig up" at the ball rather than slapping down at it. Pressure the passing lanes. If your man is inside his shooting range (you think he can score) then; Keep one hand high (at shoulder level) to pressure the shot and to block the shooters view of the basket. Keep the other hand low to guard against the dribble and pressure the passing lanes. The Shuffle Step When moving to cover your offensive player always use the shuffle step. Your feet should not cross or come together as you would lose you balance and the ability to react quickly. Keeping a wide stance ensures it is harder for your man to drive past you. Take short quick steps, keeping on the balls of your feet. 118

119 Basketball Player Handout 6 Basic Defensive Skills (page 2 of 2) The Drop Step The drop step is a reverse pivot that is used to change direction when using the defensive shuffle step. It is important to use the drop step so that you give up a bit of ground while maintaining your position between your offensive player and the basket. If you just continue shuffling in front of your player, they will get right past you, or you will foul them. Defensive Position The most important thing to remember is to STAY BETWEEN YOUR MAN AND THE BASKET HE IS SHOOTING towards. Guarding the offensive player with the ball If the offensive player still has the dribble, stay about three feet (900mm) away, keeping pressure on the ball and the shot with your hands. If the player has used their dribble, then you can approach closer and increase the pressure. Most players in our age group will dribble with mainly one hand (usually the right hand). In this case you should try and overplay them to that side (move to their right a bit), to try and force them to dribble or drive using their weaker dribbling hand. Guarding a man without the ball Here the object is to stop the man from getting the ball. You should keep between your man and the basket but take a position that allows you to put your hand and knee into the passing lane. This is called the deny stance. Make sure to play a step towards the ball (jump to the ball) to force you man to cut behind you and not in front. The passing lane is a straight line between your man and the ball. 119

120 Basketball Player Handout 7 Defensive Philosophy (page 1 of 2) To be competitive with the top teams you need to have good defence. With effort and practice everyone can be great defensive players. Defence requires effort, determination, aggression and concentration rather than the ball skills required to be a great offensive player. Important points to remember, to practice and to execute in games are; A. Position You must be between the player and the basket when guarding a player with the ball. Play "in the passing lane" when guarding a player "one pass away" from the ball. Play "help defence" (towards the "split line") when guarding the player "two or more passes away" from the ball. B. Spacing Play about an arm s length away when guarding a player with the ball. If you know they are quicker than you play a bit further away, if you are quicker go in a bit closer. Play closer and apply more pressure once they have used their dribble. C. Stance Keep in the proper defensive stance. Feet shoulder width apart, knees bent, head up, hands ready. Keep low and wide. Stay in the stance and you'll be quicker and more balanced. Stand up and you'll be beaten every time. Remember nose behind toes - if you lean forward with your head you'll be off balance and beaten easily. D. Ball pressure Your main objective as a defender is to put pressure on the pass or shot. Apply as much pressure to the ball as you can. Trace the ball with your upper hand. Dig up - don't slap down. Don't foul. If the player has the ball well protected behind, don't reach around or give up your position and let them past you. No easy, uncontested shots. Try and block the players view of the court and basket. Have fast hands. Be like a fencer. Don't reach with your head. E. Quickness Stay on the balls of your feet. Shuffle glide. Big then bigger, then big again - don't bring your feet together. Keep your feet moving - pitter patter - remember the tennis player waiting for the serve. Stay on one level - don't move up and down - stay low. Steady heads. F. Vision Keep your head up - see the whole court, You must be able to see the ball and your man - remember pointing pistols. If in doubt, watch the ball. When sprinting back down the court, look over the inside shoulder, always look at the ball. 120

121 Basketball Player Handout 7 Defensive Philosophy (page 2 of 2) G. Attitude Controlled aggression. You must want to play defence. Want the ball. Positive self-talk - "They re not going to get that shot away!", "They re not driving past me!" Be nasty, mean and greedy - it's your ball - not theirs! When chasing a player, run for a spot on the court he wants to get to and get there first. H. Transition Sprint! Get back down the court before they do. Get in front of the ball. I. Give ground Give up ground using the drop step rather than letting the player get past you. J. Guard the Key Stop players getting the ball in our defensive key. Don't even let them in the defensive key! Under no circumstances is an opposition player to be in the key unguarded. Under no circumstances pass back across the defensive key when there are opposition players near. K. Communication Shout (loudly!) to let your team-mates know what is happening - it can also upset the other team s concentration. Shout BALL when your player (the one you are guarding) has the ball. Shout DEAD when they pick up their dribble. Shout SHOT when a shot is taken. Shout SWITCH when you go to guard someone else's man to let them know to take yours. L. Force the Opposition to the Sideline / Baseline / Corner 1. Always force the opposition ball handler to the sideline / corner. 2. Keep them out of the middle of the court. M. Own the Boards - Rebound, Rebound, Rebound. 1. The team that gets most rebounds, nearly always wins! 2. Block out - make contact. 3. Hands near ears. 4. Watch the ball - anticipate where it is going to go. 5. Jump high - jump stop % of rebounds bounce the opposite side from where the shot was taken. 7. Grab the ball like you really want it. 8. Once you've got it protect it - pull it in, elbows wide. 9. After an offensive rebound - power the shot straight back up - power lay-up is the only shot I don't mind you using two hands. 10. After a defensive rebound - look for an outlet pass to the wing or dribble the ball out. N. Shot Blocking 1. Don't bring the arm / hand down or forward. 2. Keep the arm upright - no fouls this way. 3. Don't jump unless the ball has left the shooters hand - beware of shot fakes. 121

122 Basketball Player Handout 8 Rebounding A good rebounder is a very valuable player. They get the ball back for the team at the defensive end and get opportunities for extra shots at the offensive end. Although there are some techniques and skills to learn, rebounding is mainly about effort and determination. 1. Be in the right position. 1. Be between your man and the basket. 2. Try and anticipate where the missed shot is going to go. 2. Box out your opponent. 1. In defence, after the shot goes up, pivot into your man, make contact with your behind. 2. Stay low (knees bent - sitting position) for balance and strength. 3. Stay wide (legs and arms) so you are harder to get past. 4. Keep your arms up, hands up at about ear level, palms facing the basket. 3. Watch the shot (ball) and anticipate where it is going to go. 4. Move to the ball and jump up high! 5. Catch the ball with two hands above your head. Don't wait for it to come down to you. 6. Land with a two-foot jump stop. 1. Then you can choose your pivot foot. Defensive Rebounds 2. Bring the ball into the body and protect it. 3. Look for an outlet pass to the closest wing, or a strong dribble and then a pass. 4. The rebound is the first stage of a fast break - move! Offensive Rebounds Be strong and go straight back up for the shot. Remember the pump fake - get the defender up in the air. Australian player Luc Longley boxes out Patrick Ewing. 122

123 Basketball Player Handout 9 Triple Threat and Individual Offensive Moves The Triple Threat Position You should develop the habit of always going straight into the "triple threat" position when you get the basketball. The triple threat position is: Facing the basket Feet about shoulder width apart. Knees bent, keep your "behind" low. Stay on the balls of your feet, don't stand flat-footed. Keep your head up - looking around the court. Holding the ball in the "ready" position, if closely guarded protect it on your back hip. From the triple threat position, you can: dribble (drive to the basket) pass shoot Remember to always "square up" to face the basket. Individual Offensive Moves These moves are all used to beat the defender. They all start with you in the "triple threat" position. Remember this means you can dribble, pass or shoot. Begin with a short "jab" step toward the defender, or a shot fake, to make him react in some way. The following important points apply to all these individual offensive moves: Don't automatically bounce the ball as soon as you get it. Save your dribble. Always adopt the triple-threat position - remember to "square up" and face the basket. Keep low, knees bent, butt low. Make the jab step short and quick - keep your weight on your pivot foot - this will help you stay balanced. Make your shot fakes believable they must look like the start of your normal shooting action. Don't make the shot fake and following action too quick - give the defender time to react. Make the drive step quick and long to get past the defender with this first long step. Drive close to the defender, straight at the basket, no banana cuts. Attack the lead foot and hand of the defender. Read the defence - see what they do before you decide your move. You must start the dribble before your pivot foot leaves the floor. Strong Side Drive If your defender doesn't react quickly to the jab step, make a strong side drive. Make sure the drive step is long and try and get your head and shoulders past the defender. Protect the ball by keeping it on your "strong" side, protecting it with your body. Keep the defender on your back by moving across in front of her. Crossover Drive If the defender reacts to your jab step by moving to that side, go past him on your pivot-foot side using a crossover drive. Rip the ball through low to the other side of your body as you make the crossover step across your body. Dribble with your "off" hand to keep your body between the defender and the ball. Jab Step into Jump Shot If the defender reacts to your jab step by moving backwards, and her hands are down, take the shot if you are in range and have room. 1. It is important to keep the jab step short to retain your balance for the shot. 2. Make a good high jump shot to ensure the defender doesn't reject the shot. 123

124 Basketball Player Handout 10 Side Drills (page 1 of 2) There will be sometimes during practice when not all players are involved in a on-court activity. During these times, you should not just stand around and do nothing. Use the following ball-handling, stationary dribbling and jump-rope activities to keep you busy and improve your skills and fitness. These drills are designed so that you can still watch what is happening on the court. Ball Handling Drills With all of these drills - KEEP YOUR HEAD UP - DON'T LOOK DOWN AT THE BALL! Body Wraps Wrap the ball around your head from hand to hand. Move down your body and wrap the ball around your waist. Move down again and wrap the ball around your ankles. Single leg wraps Stand with your legs apart and wrap the ball around one of your legs from hand to Do 10 in one direction, then 10 in the other, then change legs. Figure 8 leg wraps Stand with your legs apart and wrap the ball around both of your legs from hand to hand in a figure 8. Do 10 in one direction, then 10 in the other. Blurr - with a bounce Stand with your legs apart and hold the ball with one hand in front and one hand behind your body. Letting the ball bounce only once, change hands, the front to the back, and the back to the front. Blurr - with no bounce Same as above but don't let the ball bounce. Spider Drill Dribble the ball twice in front of your body, once with each hand, then dribble the ball twice with the hands behind the body, again once with each hand. Then return to the front for the same again. Straddle Flip Hold the ball with both hands in front of the body. Release the ball and catch it before it bounces with both hands behind the body. Repeat coming back to the front. Finger Tipping Tip the ball continuously, and rapidly, between the fingertips of both hands. Move the position of the ball from above your head to out in front of your body and back again as you tip the ball. 124

125 Basketball Player Handout 10 Side Drills (page 2 of 2) Dribbling Drills REMEMBER - KEEP YOUR HEAD UP AND PRACTICE MORE WITH YOUR WEAK HAND. 1. V-dribbles (crossover) in front of your body - from hand to hand - keep the ball low. 2. V-dribbles (front to back) either side of your body - in the stride stop stance. 3. V-dribbles in front of your body - one hand only. For 2 & 3 above, remember the hand & wrist must change position each dribble (from one side of the ball to the other. 4. Protection dribble right hand for 5-10 dribbles, then swap to left hand for 5-10 dribbles - repeat. 5. Dribble round your body. 6. Figure 8 dribble between the legs. 7. Between the legs dribble. 8. Behind the back dribble. Jump Rope Drills Jump rope (skipping) is great for conditioning and developing foot quickness. Try sets of 20 of each of the following, Both feet jumping. Single foot jumping (hopping). Alternate feet jumping. Or use your imagination. Line Jumping Drills Use the lines of the basketball court (or any lines - draw one with chalk if you need to) to do the various drills below. These will develop your foot quickness as well. Try sets of 20 of each of the following. Standing side on to the line, jump with both feet, back and forth across the line. Standing side on to the line, jump with single foot (hop), back and forth across the line (use right then left foot). Standing front on to the line, jump with both feet, back and forth across the line. Standing front on to the line, jump with single foot (hop), back and forth across the line (use right then left foot). Make up any combination of the above, or again use your imagination. 125

126 Basketball Player Handout 11 Player Positions A basketball team is usually made up of the following player positions. These positions are given names and numbers. Point Guard The Point Guard is usually one of the smaller players in the team. They are usually the best ball handler on the team. They must be an excellent passer of the ball. Although the point guard is usually not depended upon to be a big scorer, they should be a good shooter to force the defence to come out and cover them. It is usually the point guard who brings the ball down the court and sets up the offense. Shooting Guard The shooting guard is usually the bigger of the two guards. They must also be a good passer and receiver and is usually the second best ball handler. They should also be a good outside shooter. Small Forward The small forward will probably be bigger than the two guards, possibly not as quick and maybe not as good a ball-handler. They must be a good passer and receiver of the ball and should also be a good offensive rebounder. Should also be a good outside shooter. Power Forward The power forward will be one of the biggest and strongest players on the team. The power forward is a physical player, providing strength and power close to the basket. The power forward should be an excellent offensive and defensive rebounder. The power forward should be a strong shooter close to the basket. They should also be a strong receiver and passer. Centre The centre will usually be the biggest player on the team. Like the power forward they play close to the basket and must be a strong offensive and defensive rebounder. As the centre often draws a lot of fouls, they should be a good free throw shooter. As a junior player you grow and develop and may progress from being a Point Guard to a Centre, or visa versa. Therefore, all players should work on all their skills, such as dribbling, shooting, rebounding and foot speed. 126

127 Basketball Player Handout 12 Court Terminology The following diagrams illustrate court positions and terminology. The split line is an imaginary line down the centre of the court, from basket to basket. The free throw line extended is an imaginary line that extends the free throw line out to the sidelines. The elbows are the points where the sides of the key join the free throw line. The sides of the court (either side of the split line) are referred to as; the "ball side" or "strong side" - the side where the ball is, the "help side" or "weak side" - the opposite side to where the ball is. We should also think of the court as being divided into three lanes and make sure that we always have players running down the court in each of them when we fast break, rather than running down too closely together. 127

128 Basketball Player Handout 13 Fast Break Responsibilities 1. Good defence starts fast breaks. A defensive steal, or defensive rebound are ideal ways to begin our fast break. If we all play aggressive defence, pressure the passing lanes, block out our opposition players we will get more fast break opportunities. 2. React quickly. Once we get the ball back, either from a rebound, steal or opposition basket we need to react quickly. Step out of bounds to take the ball quickly. Get to a position to receive the inbound or outlet pass quickly. 3. Fill the lanes. We must have the left, middle and right lanes filled with a player sprinting down the court. We need to communicate what we are doing (e.g. "I'm left, I'm right etc.). Usually we want the ball coming down the middle of the court. 4. Run hard and wide. Sprint down the court hard every time. Stay wide to spread the defence. 5. Slow down enough to get your body under control as you approach the basket. As you approach the free throw line extended, slow down enough to get your body under control and cut towards the basket. 6. Always pass ahead to the open man. If there is a team member open in front of you, always pass them the ball - never dribble if a man is open ahead of you. 7. If you do dribble - use it effectively. If you do decide to dribble - go somewhere. Don't waste dribbles and slow down the break. In the open court use the speed dribble - push it out in front and run hard. 8. Always see the ball. As you set up for the outlet pass use the "knife" position (back to the sideline) so you can see the entire court. As you sprint down the court look over your inside shoulder to see the ball and your teammates. 9. Passing line - driving lane. Read the defender and decide. If there is no defender on the line between you and the basket drive hard to the hoop. If there is no defender on the passing lane between you and a man closer to the basket pass ahead. 10. Make the intelligent pass. Fake a pass to make a pass. Read the defenders hands - if they are high, pass low, if they are low, pass high. 11. Who does what? As we are playing man-to-man defence we cannot always be sure who will be at what position when the turnover that starts the fast break occurs. This means that you need to use your intelligence to decide your role and communicate to your teammates. Most often the guards and one forward will be the lane-fillers, while the posts will be the defensive trailers. The man closest to the basket should be the one who takes the ball out of bounds after an opposition score. This will often be a post player. Both guards, or a guard and a forward (if a guard has the rebound, steal, or inbound pass) should try to get open on the ball side elbow and ball side sideline (free-throw line extended). 128

129 Basketball Player Handout 14 Team Defensive Rules and Goals Team Defensive Signals We will play only man-to-man defence, we will not play or teach a zone defence. We believe that a solid understanding of man-to-man individual skills and team principles is vital to the development of our players. We vary the pressure we place on teams up the court by determining where our first defensive point of attack is, or where we pick up our defensive assignments. The diagram to the left shows the four different positions and how we signal to the team what we want to do. For example, if the coach calls, "22" or "Blue" the team would pick up just behind the half-court line. We will also have different variations of some of the defences to allow for some slight modifications to them. These are: Safe (e.g. 24-Safe) With the Safe versions of our man-to-man defence we have a nominated safety player dropping back. In this case we will not place a man on the in bounder for the offensive team, or we might nominate a member of our opposition who we do not pick up early in the offense. Contain (e.g. 21-Contain) With the Contain versions of our man-to-man defence we choose not to deny the guard to guard pass instead we allow this pass and the defensive guard off the ball helps to stop penetration. Team Defensive Principles Ball pressure is paramount. We must place extreme pressure on the ball to make passing and dribble penetration difficult for our opponent. In defensive transition we must always be behind the line of the ball. If we are not behind the ball, we are not in a position to play defence. In all our defensive options (see above), the player nearest the ball at the point of turnover or score must take the ballhandler. We must try to turn them, as many times as possible, in the backcourt to slow the progress of the ball and give us time to get back. Once the ball crosses the half-court line our intention is then to channel the ball towards the sideline and corner. On the ball we must deny penetration into the key, especially down the middle. One pass away, we deny the pass (exception is guard in Contain, see above). Two passes away, we should be one step off the passing the lane, with two feet in key, pointing pistols (see man and ball). Three passes away, we should be one step off the passing lane, on the split line, pointing pistols. On penetration, the help must come from the weakside. Ball side defender who is one pass away can hedge and recover. When defending the low post, we side front - on the high side when the ball is high - on the low side when the ball is low. Use correct footwork to step across in front of the offensive post as ball is moved high-low or low-high. Jump to the ball - as the pass is made, not after it is made ("fly with the ball"). Communicate, Communicate, Communicate! 129

130 Basketball Player Handout 15 Screening (page 1 of 2) Screening is used to allow one of your team-mates to get open away from their defender. By setting a screen, you block the path of the defender so that they cannot follow your team-mate as they cut off your screen. The player who is setting the screen should remember the following key points: 1. Keep your feet shoulder width apart, bend your knees and take up a strong balanced position. 2. Hold your arms strongly across your chest to protect yourself. 3. Expect contact - the idea is for the defender to run into you. 4. Make sure your body is positioned square to the direction you are trying to screen. 5. Make sure the defender is in the middle of your body. Remember the T. 6. Remember to call your team-mate so she knows you are screening. Remember the raised fist. 7. You must not push the defender. 8. You must remain stationary, and in your cylinder. 9. Once the cutter has gone, roll to the basket. The player who is going to cut off the screen should remember the following: The Down Screen Don't cut too soon. You must wait for the screener to have set the screen properly and to be stationary. Fake in the opposite direction that you are going to cut to put the defender off balance. Cut close to the screener. Brush shoulders with them. If you leave a gap the defender may get through it. Read the defence and make your move accordingly. A screen can be set for your team-mate with the ball (screening the ball) or for a teammate without the ball (screening away). A down screen is when the screener moves down towards the offensive baseline to screen a defensive player closer to the baseline. When setting a down screen remember the following principles, The screener should always be inside (closer to the centre of the court) the cutter. Screener has their back to the ball. This way the screener should have a cut to the basket and a cut to the ball. What the cutter does depends upon the reaction (and ability) of the defender. If the screener does a good job and the defender is run right into the screen, the cutter should make a tight cut, close to the screener, into the lane looking for a pass. If the defender gets between the screener and the cutter (fights over the top of the screen), the cutter can go back door looking for the pass. The screener should turn (face the basket) to block the defender. If the defender chooses to go behind the screener, the cutter pops out for an easy pass (and possibly a 3- point shot). Again, the screener can turn to block the defender. 130

131 Basketball Player Handout 15 Screening (page 2 of 2) The Back Screen A back screen is when the screener moves up away from the offensive baseline to screen a defensive player further away from the baseline. When setting a back screen, the screener is usually outside the field of vision of the defender and therefore must give the defender at least one step of room. Otherwise any contact could be called as a foul on the screener. When setting a back screen, remember the following principles, 1. The screener should have their back to the basket. 2. Screener must watch the cutter as well as the defender to determine their next move which is often a roll to the basket. Again, the cutter must read the defence. The options are a tight front cut or to go back door (depending upon the reaction of the defender). The Cross Screen The cross screen is when one offensive player sets a screen moving across the court (roughly parallel to the baseline). The cross screen is often used when a team has two big men playing inside. If unable to get open, the ballside big man can screen across for the weak-side big man. Once again, depending upon the reaction of his defender, the weak-side big man can cut baseline to the opposite low post, or high side to the opposite high post. The Screen and Roll Often, the role of the screener is seen as less important (or less glamorous) than the shooter or ballhandler. When you set a screen, often the defenders will concentrate on your team-mate cutting off your screen. This is when you should roll to the basket, looking for the pass and often an easy basket. It is often the screener who gets open and gets the easy lay-up. When rolling to the basket remember to always see the ball and to present a target. Read your team-mate cutting, and the reaction of the defence, often a quick pop-out or flare after the screen can result in an easy shot. Getting a Switch Setting a screen can often result in a switch of defenders. This can lead to an offensive advantage (big man versus small man, quick guard versus slow big man). 131

132 Basketball Player Handout 16 Motion Offense Principles Proper spacing is critical. If we are too far apart passes are easier to pick off. If we are too close together we allow defenders to cheat - we allow them to defend the pass and still be in position to stop the drive. Pass and move. Don't stand still. It is too easy to guard someone who is standing still. Recognise space and move into it. We always want the point position filled. Read the defence - take what they give to you. Don't overuse the dribble - only dribble to drive / penetrate the key, improve your passing angle or avoid a 3 second call. In the post, if you want the ball have your hand up and yell for the ball. If you are going to relocate or go set a screen, drop your hand and stop yelling, one second before you move. On the perimeter, catch and face into the triple threat position every time. You are not a threat on the perimeter with your back to the basket. Make your changes of direction explosive - fool the defender. In the post, use little movements and use your body position and leverage. Remember the slash arm technique and get your foot across and in front of the defender. Use leverage to seal the defender once you have established a good position. Communicate, Communicate, Communicate! 132

133 Section 7 - Motion Offenses These notes have been prepared to assist coaches in developing the concept of motion - style offense to players. Whilst much of the content focuses on screening and use of screens there is no reason why players as young as 11 years of age cannot be taught the concepts of spacing, timing and floor balance using simple pass and cut techniques. Provided they have been taught to lead and square up to the basket properly. There is a separate section detailing a teaching progression to achieve this. As will be explained in more detail later, motion offense can be adapted to suit any make-up of team, and therefore can be run from a variety of different 'sets'. However, in your role as a coach in Junior Development it is important that you develop all round skills for all players. Obviously in the long-term players must specialise and master specific skills. But it is quite likely that as your players progress to higher levels they will need to change positions. Your local centre player may be faced with the prospect of playing the perimeter if he or she is selected in a state squad. You can assist your players by adopting approaches, which will result in all round better players. One strategy to achieve this is to ensure that regardless of any other type of motion offense taught, players be taught motion five (5) out ie. no centres. In doing so all players are going to learn all positions. Big players will be taught to play from the perimeter facing the basket, and perimeter players will be taught to post up. Every player must do all things. The result will be better skilled players and greater versatility for your teams. In addition, the five out concept reinforces the concepts of spacing, timing and floor balance and improves court awareness. This approach does not detract from the need to teach each player the basics of his/her position. Obviously a seven-foot centre must ultimately learn to play inside. But the 6'5" centre had better be able to play facing the basket to achieve any prominence beyond local competition. The outside approach is also a lot of fun for the players and they enjoy developing the skills of the various positions. It also serves to break from the monotony of playing one position all the time. Motion Offense Philosophy Motion Offense is not, as some people perceive, a freelance offense but an offense of rules which reflects each individual coaches philosophy. If the offense is not correctly taught it can result in disorganised free-lance basketball. Therefore, your players must be disciplined in the concepts of shot selection, spacing, balance and most importantly reading the defence. Your players must be instructed correctly and effectively to execute the essential components of the offense. The offense is a grounding in how to play the game as opposed to learning to play a position. Specialising in a position will develop as your players mature and will be influenced by their physical stature. Learning the motion offense will ensure that they have the skills required to play in a role that their size and quickness will determine. The motion offense is an ideal teaching vehicle for individual and team offensive movement and provides an excellent fundamental skill base for your players. It also teaches players to read the game and develop a sound knowledge of team concepts, but most importantly they love it! 133

134 1. Reasons for Motion Offense Reasons for motion offense are: 1. It is difficult to defend 2. It is adaptable 3. It is flexible 4. Players find it enjoyable 5. Individual player development 6. It is difficult to scout 1. Difficult to Defend 1. The hardest aspects to defend in basketball are constant player and ball movement. Motion offense offers both characteristics. 2. The toughest team offensive manoeuvre to defend is the screen. Motion offense combines constant screening and cutting both internally and on the perimeter. 3. Adaptability 1. Motion offense can be used at any tempo 2. Motion offense can be used against all defences, man to man and zones, therefore your one offensive system enables you to attack all the time and lessens the amount of preparation involved in teaching different offenses for different defences. 3. It is also very easy to combine with transition/press offenses and special plays can be incorporated. 4. Flexibility 1. It is flexible in that you can use your players in many ways. 2. If in foul trouble you can substitute in your next best player not necessarily your next best point guard, off guard, forward etc. 3. Because teaching motion offense involves instruction of individual offensive moves of all position; there is no need for role specialisation. Everyone learns to play all positions. 4. Enjoyable 1. Players enjoy motion offense because it provides the opportunity to express themselves individually. 2. Motion offense also creates a great teaching environment. 3. Individual Player Development 1. Motion offense creates a positive state of mind for players. 2. It teaches overall fundamental skills, the development of all playing roles and all individual offensive fundamentals 3. Difficult to Scout 1. Whilst offensive tendencies can be scouted, no movement can be predicted because there is no predetermined movement. 2. Even you as a coach have no certainty of what your players are going to do. 3. You just know that they are going to play as a unit to provide good shot opportunities. 134

135 2. Essential Components of Motion Offense Essential components of Motion Offense are: 1. Passing 2. Movement 3. Screening/Cutting 4. Shot selection 5. Importance of space 6. Concentration 7. Role identification 1. Passing 1. Good passing decreases turnovers. 2. Create a good passing attitude. 3. Do not pass to a teammate - pass away from the defence. 4. Good passing creates a better shot for the recipient. 5. Movement 1. Move with a purpose 2. When you pass, move, but never in the direction of your pass 3. Screening/Cutting 1. Both screener and cutter can be recipients of the ball - Show a target 2. Shot Selection 1. An offense that is effective is determined by the quality of the shots that you can create. 2. Spacing 1. Create good spacing 2. Concentration 1. Think before you move 2. Concentrate on your timing 3. Role Identification 1. Play within your capabilities 135

136 3. Basic Principles of Motion Offense The basic principle of Motion Offense is: 1. Read the defence 2. No predetermined movement 3. Communication 4. Develop good habits 1. Read the Defence 2. Take advantage of what the defence is giving you 3. Play your man on offense 4. V-cut and screens are the basic movements 5. No Predetermined Movement 1. Screener must think before he moves 2. See how the defence reacts to screen 3. Triple threat position - catch and face. 4. Be a threat, Make the defence play honestly 5. Demand your 'space' 6. Good floor balance/space 7. Good shot selection 8. Communication 1. Call out screener s name when going to screen and signal 2. Verbalise and visualise 3. Develop Good Habits 1. Refine and rehearse all individual and team concepts 136

137 4. Basic Concepts Vs Man to Man Defence General 2. When you pass, move, but do not follow your pass 3. Do not make two simultaneous cuts to the same area 4. Make use of all screening opportunities off the ball and move with a purpose 5. Call out the man's name for which you are screening 6. When you receive the ball, face the basket (triple threat) and hold the ball for a count of two, unless you have a good scoring opportunity. Do not pass too quickly. Ball 1. If a screener s back is to you, hold the ball to see what develops. 2. Be patient. 3. Do not reverse ball while a screen is taking place. Spacing 1. Perimeter players should be 4-5 metres apart (pass length). The ball should not go along the baseline unless a scoring opportunity is available. 137

138 5. Motion Offensive Sets/Alignments Motion offense can be initiated from a variety of different sets, such as those set out below. Once the basics have been taught using '5 out', '3 out 2 in' and '4 out I in' formations, floor balance can be adapted to suit the make-up of your team. 138

139 6. Type of Cuts Players need to be able to execute all the cutting movements shown below and to understand when each is appropriate. V cut lead The most basic moved used by a player to get free to receive a pass Inside cut The basic give & go movement Back cut This is an essential movement to combat the defender who overplays the passing lane Replace yourself A particularly useful movement: 1. against a defender who sags too far from his opponent, or 2. to prevent congesting the key area if other teammates are involved in cutting and/or screening activity 139

140 This next series of diagrams illustrates the types of cutting movement available to a player when a team mate, instead of passing the ball, initiates an offensive play by use of a "dribble entry" from the point to the wing. Back cut Deep cut Back cut, button hook & seal Shallow cut - Guard to forward Shallow cut - Guard to Guard In effect, any time a player dribbles towards a team-mate, we want that teammate to vacate that position on the floor by executing one of these moves and relocate to another position to maintain proper floor spacing. 140

141 7. Types of Screens Away screen Down screen Back screen - Post to perimeter Up Screen - Perimeter to perimeter Cross Screen Familiarity with these types of screens is only the beginning. The next section details effective use of screens, and it is in this area that much of your time will be spent. 141

142 8. Using Screens The most critical element in learning motion offense is an understanding of how to set and use screens. Much of your time will be spent doing breakdown drills to teach this aspect, that is teaching players to play their man or read the defence. We will use the away screen as an example of the various options available to players in getting open off screens. However, before describing these options there are a couple of important points which should be made. 1. The screener should always set his defender up for the screen by taking two steps in the direction of his pass before moving to set the screen. 2. The screener must come to a jump stop with a strong wide stance and ensure the screen is set at the proper angle. 1. Away screen - nose to ear of the defender 2. Down screen - back to the ball 3. Up and back screen - back to the basket 4. Cross screen - back to the ball 3. The cutter must always set his man up for the screen by executing a v-cut. Take four steps towards the basket before coming off the screen. 4. Employ the rule; one to the ball one to the basket. 1. That is, if the cutter goes to the ball or flares, the screener goes to the basket. 2. If the cutter goes to the basket the screener opens to the ball. 3. Players must attempt to create two scoring opportunities off every screening situation. 142

143 9. Screen Options These various options need to be drilled first in isolation, and without defence. Then introduce defence to the screener only, increase the options available to the defender and finally introduce the second and third defenders and allow players to practice live. In the initial stages it is often useful to set up two passers so that both the cutter and screener become accustomed to giving targets to receive the ball. OPTION 1 - Defender into the screen In this instance the cutter manages to run the defender into the screen. The cutter should execute a straight cut to the ball and the screen opens to the basket. OPTION 2 - Defender follows the cutter. Here the defender follows the cutter around the screen, so the cutter should 'curl cut' to the basket and the screener open to the ball. OPTION 3 - Defender sags below the screen. This time the cutter should flare to the open. The screener should adjust his screening angle to prevent the defender closing out before opening to the basket. OPTION 4 - Defender anticipates the cutter over the top. The defender cheats over the top of the screen in anticipation of a straight cut, so the cutter back cuts and the screener opens to the ball. OPTION 5 - Defenders switch Any switching situation the cutter should curl to the basket under the switching defender and the screener should flare or open to the ball. 143

144 10. Teaching Motion Offense (5 Out) You will need to decide at what level you need to introduce motion offense concepts. It may be necessary to go right to the beginning and cover the section, which deals only with five out pass and cut. Some may need to spend considerable introductory time on the screening techniques in the previous section, notwithstanding the need for everybody to regularly reinforce those techniques. Others may be ready to jump right into the offense. Teach the offense by the whole method first. Explain the principles outlined in previous sections. Reinforce every week. Then break down the offense and use 3 on 3 to teach the various screening techniques. This is most important in also teaching timing and how to read the defence. The concept of 'one to the ball, one to the basket' cannot be over emphasised, neither can countering switches. Basic Rules The basic rules for the offense, regardless of the alignment, can be summarised as follows: a On any downward pass (point to wing, wing to baseline) cut or screen away b On any outward pass (base to wing, wing to point) set backscreens, cut and replace yourself, shallow or deep cut clear-out. c On a dribble entry at a player, the player without the ball clears out/or scissors handoff with the dribbler, posts up, shallow cuts, or screens opposite. d On any pass to the post area, run three cutters in the same direction. These basic rules are not absolutes. Read the defence and judge for yourself. The next series of drills should form the basis of your teaching. They are followed by examples of the type of 5 out offensive movement you can teach. 3 on 3 Breakdowns to Teach Use of Screens 1. Pass and screen away 1. V. Cuts. Shoulder to shoulder. Cut according to the defence. Pass to the cutter. Pass to the screener. 2. If the defence switches. bend or flare the cut. Slip or flare the screen. Here the cutter bends below the switching guard to the basket. The screener flares. 3. Here the cutter flares and therefore the screener cuts. Our rule is always one to the ball, one to the basket. 144

145 2. Dribble Entry 1. Point dribbles at the wing who V cuts for a backdoor pass and continues or freezes his man under the basket and buttonhooks back to the post for a pass. The weakside player sees this and flares or flashes to take the help defence away from the low post. 2. Same play, except wing man screens opposite for the corner man. Read the "D" and obey our rules as in 1 (b) and l (c) regarding switches. Low post man must step back from the low post to get room to V cut. 3. Here the defence switches so the cutter flares and the screener cuts back. If the cutter had cut, then the screener would flare. 4. Shallow cut. Same play, wing man freezes his defence and shallow cuts for a pass. In the 5 on 5 this cut can often be off a screen. 145

146 3. 3 on 3 from the wing 1. Here 2 passes to the coach and either cuts to the basket or screens away for I who cuts off the screen to the basket, or to the ball while I cuts to the basket and 3 fills the top. 2 may continue to screen for 3 rather than rolling off the screen to the basket. Read the defence. 2. Here 2 passes to the coach in the corner and either cuts or screens for I to cut to the basket. I may take the screen or screen away for 3 who can now cut to the basket off two screens from I and 2. This same drill can be used with a player in the corner and coaches on the helpside, -or without coaches, and four on four. etc. 3. Here 2 passes to l at the top of the keyhole. Here we usually have 3 move into the lane area and backscreen for 2 to cut to the basket. Of course, you can have 2 screen for 3 to come to the ball or go to the basket. Teach both, but make sure you do have some backscreens in your 'plays'. 146

147 These are examples of the type of movement which can be generated from the 5 out alignment. 4. Five Out No Post 1. Start with five players outside the three point line. Player who passes the ball has first option to post up. Other players can only post up off a flash cut from the baseline or after they set a screen or come off a screen. 2. Player 1 passes to 3 and screens away for 4 or 2 cuts and posts up. Players 5 and 2 exchange (usually with a downscreen for a down pass). 3. Now we follow the four out one inside rules. Players in the post have a count of "four" to get the ball then they must clear to the corners, set a screen or fill a spot. 4. Player 3 passes to 4 and we repeat the rules as in (b). Players 1 and 2 exchange while 5 fills the spot left by 3, or screens away for I or Pass from the base to the wing. Player 5 passes to 4 and cuts to post up, cuts and replaces himself, or screens opposite for the other corner man or wing. He may also screen on the ball for 4. As before on any back pass, set back screens. Therefore 3 would set a backscreen for 2 to flare for 1 etc. Any number of situations can develop. 6. Again, 4 passes back out to 3, so we prefer a backscreen. Player l backscreen for 2 to flare or cut. Player l is in an excellent position to set the screen, or to slip through and cut to the basket, for a pass. Player 5 can backscreen for 4, who having passed the ball may cut to the basket first, or use the backscreen. 147

148 7. Flash Post 1. The 5 out offense are excellent for 'blind pig' flash post play. Our rule is that anytime you are in the corner area you may flash for a pass and then play our usual rules. 2. Player 2 receives, 3 flashes backdoor to post up or screen away for 4, player 1 fills as does player 5. Player 5 may screen down for player 4 so that 3 will set the pick for 5 rather than 4. If 3 posts up ball side then 4 and 5 must exchange screens. 3. Low post feed rules are as follows; the high man cuts either 1 or 2) with the other two players interchanging screens. Player 3 relocates for a pass. The essential play is to move to prevent the defence doubling down on the post. 1. Dribble Entry On dribble entries we clear out both wing players. Player 1 dribbles at 2, players 2 and 3 clear out and set screens opposite. Players 4 and 5 exchange screens, then come off the screens set by 2 and 3. Player l has an excellent clear out while the defenders on 5 and 4 can be easily picked off with the two quick screens. 2. Cross Court Passes In the 5 out spread offense, backscreens and flares are especially effective, plus they spread the defense. Here player I sets a backscreen so that 3 "V" cuts and flares for the long pass from 2. This play causes problems for the defense and often results in lay ups for the screener. 3. Spacing While it is ideal to have five players capable of shooting the three and driving from the perimeter this is rarely possible. Teach the players to develop their range and then to get to the spots that they can threaten from. Here we see 5 who is a big slow player playing in the low post short corner position. His is his-range. If 3 gets the ball he can cut to the basket or seal his man and post up. If 2 penetrates then X5 must decide whether to stay in touch with 5 or go to 2. If X5 helps then 5 can set up for the jump shot or backdoor behind X5 for the pass and power layup. If 2 has the ball 5 is also in an excellent position, facing the basket, to fake low and flash for the medium or high post. Get players to stretch the defence but do not allow the defence to cheat by positioning yourself or cutting outside your jump shot range. 148

149 4. Four Perimeter One Post In this offense we follow the principles and rules set down previously. In this case we want to take advantage of our one big man or to keep him basically inside, and to spread the remaining defenders. 1. Player 5 may start anywhere on the keyhole. His basic rule is to allow one cut before coming to the ball unless he is already ball side. Pass from the point to the wing. Player 1 has first priority and will screen away for 2, 3 or 4 or cut to the basket, post up, then clear out. 2. On the same pass 2 and 3 obey our rules of exchanging down or up or any perimeter pass. 3. Player 4 now has the ball and looks to pass to 5 who stays in the post (or screens away for player 1). On the pass back out we obey our rules of backscreens, so 5 backscreens for 4 while l backscreens for 2 to flare to the corner. Player 4 posts up, or exchanges with 5 again to get 5 back inside, or screens away for 2 or Dribble Entry Same rules as before: player 2 clears out, posts up, scissors, screens for 5 or shallow cuts. Players 4 and 3 interchange. 5. Passes to The Post The same as before. Three players move in the same direction. High guard cut. 149

150 5. Three Out Two In Option 1-5 on 5 movement 1. Three players (1,2,3) begin outside the three point line. The post players (4,5) line up anywhere on the keyhole their side of the split line. 2. In this case the wings and post players start in a stack formation high/low. The wing and post player either side of the "split line" can start in any formation they wish. 3. We have both post players high. We begin our motion and follow our rules. Player l passes to 3 and cuts off a screen by 4 or screens away for 2. Post 5 rolls for a pass. 4. Player 3 looks to pass to 5. At the same time l and 2 are exchanging with down or back screens. If 5 does not get the ball he can screen away for 2 or 1, whoever is in the low post. Player 3 has an excellent one-on-one. 5. Player 3 passes back to 4. On a pass outwards, we want the wings and posts to interchange usually with backscreens. Here the use of flares and curl cuts must be taught. Player 4 passes to the cutters or the screeners. 6. Player 4 passes to player 2 who looks to pass to player 1 posting up. On any down pass, we down screen, so 5 down screens for 3. As 1 is a point guard we would expect him to screen away for the opposite low post who would be player

151 7. Player 1 screens for 5. Meanwhile 4 obeys his rule and screens away for the wing (3) or the low post (now 1). 8. This type of movement continues with all 5 players interchanging. As all players have different skills we expect players to play to those by creating scoring opportunities for themselves and others. Post players get back inside, perimeter players play outside. This continuous movement allows the team to post up big perimeter players to bring good outside shooting post players to the perimeter and forces the opposition to switch and thereby the offense gains mismatches. Option 2 - Dribble Entry 1. Player l dribbles at player 3 who Scissors off 1 and a screen by 5, or who clears out posts up / screens opposite / shallow cuts off a screen by All of the above are good options. The result will be good balance with a man at the point and two either side of the "split line". From here follow the rules dribbles at 1 who cuts off a backscreen by 5 and shallow cuts to the point. 151

152 Option 3 - Post Play a. Pass to the Post On a pass to the high post the wing backdoors and posts up or screens away, or shallow cuts. 5 and 2 react to 3 while 1 replaces 3 at the wing. This is a good backdoor against pressure and a good post up for 5. b. Pass to the Low Post Player 2 passes to the post. Player 1 cuts with 3 replacing, while player 2 relocates. Player 5 reacts by screening or coming high to drag the defensive help away from 4. Again, read the action. c. Opposite Post Rule Anytime a player is in the low post opposite the ball that player must take two steps off the key and face the ball. This allows 4 now to 'V' cut if 5 screens for him, to flash to the free throw line, and to set up a backscreen on 2's man so that 2 can flare to the comer. 4. High Post Screen At anytime a high post man can screen for the point man. When player 1 dribbles off the screen the rules are the same as for a dribble entry by I at 3. Player 4 can now stay at the point or screen for 2, 5 or 3 (shallow cut). All the previous 'rules' allow the players to use their initiative and to read the plays. The critical factors are timing, spacing, creating for others, and reading the defence. Many situations will develop out of the 'the three out two inside' game if the two players either side of the split line play off and create for each other. 152

153 Option 4-3 on 3 breakdowns for '3 out 2 in' a. High Post Screen This time the point man dribbles off a pick by the high post. The wing man repeats his three options as in II (a). b. Here the wing man freezes his man under, then cuts off the screen, reading the defence, bend or flare, and the high post rolls to the basket for a pass. c. Backscreens Low post sets a screen 2 metres from the wing man who "V" cuts according to the defence. Screener reacts to the cutter. d. Switching If the defence switches, back cut the cutter or flare. The screener slips the screen and comes to the ball. 5. Down screens Crackdowns. Wing man screens down for post player. Cutter "V" cuts and reads the defence. Screener reads the defence and steps to the ball. 153

154 6. Switching Defence switches. Screener cuts to the basket between the defenders and the cutter flares. The high defender is caught with no one to defend. 7. U.C.L.A. Cut Point man cuts off the high post and posts his man up for a pass. 8. Same play Wing man passes out to the post player and screens down (or gets a back pick) for the low post. The wing and low post obey the rules as described previously. 9. Post Cross Screens This is virtually the same as in Option 2 (b) except here we have two post players. 10. Switching Defence Cutter obeys rules and cuts between defender or flares. If cutter bends then the screener flares. If the cutter flares the screener cuts back to the ball. 154

155 11. General Teaching Drills and Variations 1. 3 on 0 - Swing wings Be sure to set the screen at the proper angle, receive the ball with good floor spacing and square up in triple threat position. Passer then cuts or screens away as appropriate. 2. Guard cross 1 passes to 3 then cross screens for 2. 2 makes a basket cut looking for a pass from 3. If 3 is unable to hit 2, look to reverse the ball to Cross screen drill 4 and 5 are in the proper post up position straddling the block. 1 takes the ball to either side, the man opposite the ball widens out. The post man on the ball side turns, looks, recognises then screens. l must deliver the pass to the cutter when he is shoulder to shoulder to the screener. Ball into post, 5 steps up or steps to basket, depending on what his defensive man does. S can flash to the ball if his man gives help on the post (4) when l has the ball. 155

156 4. Back screen to down screen 1 passes to the coach and 5 steps out to back screen for him. 1 sets up his man and cuts off the screen. If 1 isn't open, he widens out and 5 goes and down screens for him. 5. Stack offensive sets Point guard 1 declares a side by dribble entry; ballside low man takes a step opposite of where he is going to cut. This indicates angle of screen to screener. 6. Baseline exchange Point-guard 1 dribble entries. 3 sets a double screen with 4 for 2 to cut to the ball. 2 flares off the screen. Guard can screen away for 3 after passing the ball. 7. Wing cut to shallow cut 3 cuts off the low stack. If not open 1 can dribble entry and 3 shallow cuts to maintain spacing. 8. Shuffle off down screen 3 releases off stack for a pass. 5 up screens for 1 to cut, post or clear away on 2 Post feeds Feed and relocate. Post goes one on one or passes back out of any double team. 156

157 10. Inside cut and flare Dribble entry by 1 and 3 fakes outside, then cuts inside off screen by 5. 5 flares to the comer. 11. Inside cut denied If 3 is not open he can screen away for 4 on the opposite post area. 12. Shallow cut with double flare 1 and 2 run a shallow cut with 2 going inside the top of the key. 5 flashes to high post and 1 hits him with a high post feed. 1 and 2 run flare cuts off 3 and 4 screens. 5 looks for either 1 or 2, if not open go into regular motion offense. 13. Flare screen/down screen 4 sets a flare screen for 2 while 1 dribbles over to improve the passing angle. If 1 is unable to get the ball to 2, he keeps his dribble. 1 starts away then comes back as 4 goes down and down-screens for Flare screen drills 1 passes to 2 makes an inside cut and then cuts off 3 back screen. 3 must set the back screen up as high as he can - top of the key area, once1 cuts off the screen, he starts his foot preparation when he receives the ball from

158 15. 5 can come from the low post area and I use a flare screen to get open. 3 clears away as we want to leave one side of the court open for a good shooter dribbles towards the middle of the court and 2 makes a shallow cut. Unable to get the return pass from 1, he makes a flare cut 3's back screen dribbles to the middle of the court, 1 makes a shallow under 2 and steps back to receive a pass from 2. 2 then flare off 3's back screen. 1 must dribble to the middle of the court to increase the passing angle. 158

159 12. Pass and Cut Series (5 Out) As stated in the introduction to these instructions, this is an ideal offense in which to introduce the basic concepts which can be later developed into a full, adaptable motion offense. The cutting rules and court balancing are presented in a whole method format. Three and four man progressions and breakdowns to emphasise the rules and techniques can easily be incorporated to build up the movement. There is no doubt that players who have mastered this style of offense will more readily adapt to the screening concept so integral to the motion offenses they will learn as they progress through the ranks. a. Down court passes - Rules Players one pass away lead for the ball (other players do not lead). One pass, one cut. Downcourt pass (cutter) balances out to other side of court. If you are replacing a player who just cut - combine your movement with a lead for the ball. 2 and 3 lead, l passes and cuts. 2 replaces 1 (combining a lead with movement). 5 leads. 2 downcourt passes to 5. 1 balances out to other side of court. 4 replaces 3. 2 will cut after downcourt pass. 2 will balance out to other side of court. 2 will replace 2 (combining a lead with movement). 1. will replace 3. 1 will replace

160 b. Up court passes - Rules Players one pass away lead for the ball other players do not lead). One pass, one cut. Upcourt pass (cutter) balances out to same side of court. If you are replacing a player who just cut - combine your movement with a lead for the ball. 2 has just cut after a downcourt pass. 2 will balance out to other side of court. 3 will replace 2 (combining a lead with movement). 4 will replace 3. 1 will replace 4. 5 passes to 3 and moves. 5 will-walk player into post and reverse pivot (face post). This is the move we want in both forward spots. 5 replaces himself (combining a lead with movement). 4 will make a lead. 3 Upcourt passes to 4. 3 makes cut. 3 balances out to same side of court. 5 will replace 3 (combining a lead with movement). 1 will make a lead. 4 wants to reverse the ball and should make a better angle with a few dribbles before passing to 1. Now we are back into downcourt passes. 4 will cut... and so on. 160

161 c. Skip pass and cut Skip passes are when a player misses (skips) another to pass to the next. The passer then cuts. For example, a player I can skip pass to 4 or 5 and then cut. Player 1 will balance out to the other side of the court. This is the usual rule. Other players rotate up. The rule on all cross-court, skip passes is: 1. pass and cut balancing out to the same side of the court 2. next player rotates up The same type of movement if the skip pass is from 3. The same rule applies if there is a skip pass from 4 or 5. Once 'Pass and Cut' has been mastered this can be introduced very quickly into practices and games. 161

162 d. Backdoor Cuts This is a great move to use after a time out, but more importantly players should be taught to execute this move without hesitation any time they recognise that a defender is overplaying a lead for the ball. 1 has the ball. 3 leads as per usual. 3, on reaching the three point line will backdoor cut. Teach players to read the defence. 5 will then lead for the ball (replacing 3). 3 will balance out to the same side of the court. 1 can pass to 5. 1 will then make a move. On any back cut from the point position always balance away from the ball. On any back cut from the corner the rule is to balance out to the same side of the court. When 5 leads, 5 will replace himself. 162

163 Section 8 Out of Bounds Plays The Out of bound plays provided below are a starting point for you implement into your teams play list. They are solid and proven plays that are referenced in a few of the Weekly Session Training Plans. Out-Of-Bounds Play 1 Offensive Baseline Box 1 Out-Of-Bounds Play 2 Offensive Baseline Stack 1 Out-Of-Bounds Play 3 Offensive Baseline Stack 2 Out-Of-Bounds Play 4 Sideline Split Line Out-Of-Bounds Play 5 Sideline Box 2 Out-Of-Bounds Play 6 Sideline Screener Out-Of-Bounds Play 7 Defensive Baseline Call A Number Out-Of-Bounds Play 8 Multiple Isolate Out-Of-Bounds Play 9 Sideline Diamond 163

164 Out-Of-Bounds Play 1 Offensive Baseline Box 1 Name: Box 1 Type: Offensive Baseline Play Instruction: Players line up as shown in diagram A. Big men (4 & 5) are on ball side, guards are on weakside. 1. Player 4 screens across for player Player 5 screens across for player Player 2 cuts high off screen and comes to corner as pressure release. 4. Player 1 cuts high (this is critical - we don't want 1 cutting low so screen must be set appropriately) and comes to ball. 5. As player 1 cuts off screen, player 5 pivots and blocks out defender. 6. Inbounder looks for pass to player 5 as she turns and blocks out. 7. Other options are player 1 and player 2. Some important points for all set out-of-bounds plays. 1. Should be one of our best passers with the ball behind the baseline. 2. In these circumstances often, the best inbound pass is a bounce pass. 3. The inbounder should not step out of court and take the ball from the referee until players are ready and lined up. 4. The inbounder should take a step back from the line to give herself plenty of room. 5. The inbounder should slap the ball or make a loud call to indicate the start of the play. 6. All players moving to the ball should do it using a V cut. That is step towards your defender to put them off balance and then cut in the opposite direction 164

165 Out-Of-Bounds Play 2 Offensive Baseline Stack 1 Name: Stack 2 Type: Offensive Baseline Play Instruction: 1. The inbounder should slap the ball or make a loud call to indicate the start of the play. 2. All players moving to the ball should do it using a V cut. That is step towards your defender to put them off balance and then cut in the opposite direction. The idea behind this play is to create an open shot for one of our better shooters. 1. The shooter is the last in line. 2. The first player in line cuts to the basket, calling loudly for the ball. Although meant as a decoy, if she is open give her the ball! 3. The second and third players pivot on their inside foot and present a wide double screen. It is important that there is no gap between them. 4. The shooter does a short cut in behind the screen and receives the pass and takes an uncontested (hopefully) shot. 5. The screeners and the shooter should push into the key to contest any rebound. The third in line should head for the opposite side of the key. 6. The first in line should sprint back to the top of the key to be in a good defensive position. Some important points for all set out-of-bounds plays. 1. Should be one of our best passers with the ball behind the baseline. 2. In these circumstances often, the best inbound pass is a bounce pass. 3. The inbounder should not step out of court and take the ball from the referee until players are ready and lined up. 4. The inbounder should take a step back from the line to give herself plenty of room. 5. The inbounder should slap the ball or make a loud call to indicate the start of the play. 6. All players moving to the ball should do it using a V cut. That is step towards your defender to put them off balance and then cut in the opposite direction 165

166 Out-Of-Bounds Play 3 Offensive Baseline Stack 2 Name: Stack 2 Type: Offensive Baseline Play Instruction: The idea behind this play is to confuse the defence and get one or more players open close to the basket. 1. In this play all players call loudly for the ball and present a target. 2. The first player in line cuts inside to the basket. 3. The second player in line cuts to the corner. 4. The third player in line cuts towards the ball once the first and second players have gone. 5. The fourth player in line cuts to the wing. 6. The inbounder should only pass to a player who is open. Ideally, we would try and get the ball to player 1 or 3 who are closer to the basket. 7. The inbounder should cut to the basket once she has passed the ball. Some important points for all set out-of-bounds plays. 1. Should be one of our best passers with the ball behind the baseline. 2. In these circumstances often, the best inbound pass is a bounce pass. 3. The inbounder should not step out of court and take the ball from the referee until players are ready and lined up. 4. The inbounder should take a step back from the line to give herself plenty of room. 5. The inbounder should slap the ball or make a loud call to indicate the start of the play. 6. All players moving to the ball should do it using a V cut. That is step towards your defender to put them off balance and then cut in the opposite direction. 166

167 Out-Of-Bounds Play 4 Sideline Split Line Name: Split Line Type: Sideline Play Instruction: The main idea of this move is to create open space in front of the person throwing in the ball. 1. Four on-court players stand together in a tight group on the imaginary split line down the middle of the court. 2. On the slap, all players cut to open space. Don't forget the initial jab or step to get the defender off-balance. 3. It is not important in this move which player goes where, just that all players move in different directions to get open. 4. The inbounder should pass to the most open player, preferably one who is closer to the attacking basket. 5. The inbounder should cut towards the basket once she has passed the ball. 6. Be careful of the centre line - avoid back-court violations. Some important points for all set out-of-bounds plays. 1. Should be one of our best passers with the ball behind the baseline. 2. In these circumstances often, the best inbound pass is a bounce pass. 3. The inbounder should not step out of court and take the ball from the referee until players are ready and lined up. 4. The inbounder should take a step back from the line to give herself plenty of room. 5. The inbounder should slap the ball or make a loud call to indicate the start of the play. 6. All players moving to the ball should do it using a V cut. That is step towards your defender to put them off balance and then cut in the opposite direction. 167

168 Out-Of-Bounds Play 5 Sideline Box 2 Name: Box 2 Type: Sideline Play Instruction: Be careful of the position of the box relative to the centre line avoid back-court violations. 1. Four on-court players line up in box (square) formation at least 3 metres apart. 2. The box straddles the imaginary split line down the middle of the court, 4 & 5 are closer to the inbounder. 3. All players initially face the passer. 4. On the slap, 4 screens for 1 and 5 screens for & 2 wait until the screeners are set and then cut of them into space. 6. After 1 & 2 have cut, 4 & 5 turn and move to the ball. 7. The inbounder should pass to the most open player, preferably one who is closer to the attacking basket. 8. The inbounder should cut towards the basket once she has passed the ball. Some important points for all set out-of-bounds plays. 1. Should be one of our best passers with the ball behind the baseline. 2. In these circumstances often, the best inbound pass is a bounce pass. 3. The inbounder should not step out of court and take the ball from the referee until players are ready and lined up. 4. The inbounder should take a step back from the line to give herself plenty of room. 5. The inbounder should slap the ball or make a loud call to indicate the start of the play. 6. All players moving to the ball should do it using a V cut. That is step towards your defender to put them off balance and then cut in the opposite direction. 168

169 Out-Of-Bounds Play 6 Sideline Screener Name: Screener Type: Sideline Play Instruction: With this play we want one of our longest and best passers with the ball at the sideline. 1. Four on-court players move quickly into a box formation well spread either side of the split line. 2. At the ball slap, player 5 fakes towards the ball and then breaks toward basket. A long pass to 5 is the first option if the defence is not covering the break. 3. Also, at the ball slap, 2 screens down for 4. 4 must wait until the screen is set and then run her man into the screen and cut down the sideline looking for the inbound pass. 4 is the second in-bound option if she has lost the defence. 4. Once 4 has used the screen, 2 screens across for 1, who uses the screen and cuts towards the ball. 1 is the next option, again if open. 5. After 1 has used the screen, 2 looks to get open in the middle of the floor as the final option. 6. After passing the ball 3 cuts to the middle of the floor looking for a return pass from 1 or 2, or to join the fast break if 4 or 5 were used. Some important points for all set out-of-bounds plays. 1. Should be one of our best passers with the ball behind the baseline. 2. In these circumstances often, the best inbound pass is a bounce pass. 3. The inbounder should not step out of court and take the ball from the referee until players are ready and lined up. 4. The inbounder should take a step back from the line to give herself plenty of room. 5. The inbounder should slap the ball or make a loud call to indicate the start of the play. 6. All players moving to the ball should do it using a V cut. That is step towards your defender to put them off balance and then cut in the opposite direction. 169

170 Out-Of-Bounds Play 7 Defensive Baseline Call a Number Name: Call a Number Type: Defensive Baseline Play Instruction: We want one of our longest passers with the ball behind the baseline, she must be competent with the baseball pass. 1. Four on-court players line up across the freethrow line extended. Players must be evenly spread with one player near each sideline and one near each elbow. 2. Each position, from left to right across the court is numbered 1-4. These numbers do not correspond to the player position numbers, they are just used for this play. 3. On the slap, the inbound passer calls a number from 1-4 (in the diagram to the right she has called 2. All players move towards the ball, but the player whose number was called takes two slow steps in towards the ball, then explosively V cuts looking for a pass and fast break. 4. The inbound passer should try for the long baseball pass to the player whose number she called, or if this is not possible look for the short pass to any other open player. 5. If the long pass is made, other players should sprint down to help the player with the ball on the break. The inbound passer is the defensive trailer. Some important points for all set out-of-bounds plays. 1. Should be one of our best passers with the ball behind the baseline. 2. In these circumstances often, the best inbound pass is a bounce pass. 3. The inbounder should not step out of court and take the ball from the referee until players are ready and lined up. 4. The inbounder should take a step back from the line to give herself plenty of room. 5. The inbounder should slap the ball or make a loud call to indicate the start of the play. 6. All players moving to the ball should do it using a V cut. That is step towards your defender to put them off balance and then cut in the opposite direction. 170

171 Out-Of-Bounds Play 8 Multiple Isolate Name: Isolate Type: Defensive Baseline or Sideline Play Instruction: In this play we try to isolate one of our guards or ball-handlers into a one-o n-one situation where it should be easy for her to get open and get the ball. First, we need to teach players how to get open against their defender. It is up to the guard who is going to receive the ball to walk slowly to a position where he is level with his teammate who is inbounding the ball. He must now react according to how his defender is playing him. If playing him tight the defender will be in one of three positions. 1. If the defender is playing him on the left or right side (see diagrams A and B), the receiving guard should take a small step at the defender to freeze him, use an armbar to hold him off if necessary, indicate a target hand and move opposite to the defender. A pass to this side should be easy. 2. If the defender is fronting the receiving guard, he should signal for a lob pass over the top of the defender (see diagram C). Again, this should be an easy pass. Drill this one-on-one by splitting players into groups of three and having them take a baseline or sideline area and rotate through the positions of inbounder, offense and defence. We can also now teach some team techniques for building on this. A set used from the defensive baseline against full-court man-to-man is shown in diagram D. 171

172 If the defender decides to leave the inbound passer and doubleteam the receiving guard, he should move to the closest corner of the court dragging the defenders with him. This will free up the court for a move for one of the forwards to sprint into space to receive the inbound pass (see diagram E). If forward 3 is denied by his defender, he should screen up for the other forward who should flash to the ball (see diagram F). Players should always position themselves so that they can see their four team-mates. One example of this is stressing to the forwards coming to the ball that they land in the knife position. That is land side-on with your back to the closest sideline. That way, you can see all the court and your four teammates. Some important points for all set out-of-bounds plays. 1. Should be one of our best passers with the ball behind the baseline. 2. In these circumstances often, the best inbound pass is a bounce pass. 3. The inbounder should not step out of court and take the ball from the referee until players are ready and lined up. 4. The inbounder should take a step back from the line to give herself plenty of room. 5. The inbounder should slap the ball or make a loud call to indicate the start of the play. 6. All players moving to the ball should do it using a V cut. That is step towards your defender to put them off balance and then cut in the opposite direction. 172

173 Out-Of-Bounds Play 9 Sideline Diamond Name: Diamond Type: Sideline Play Instruction: This play is best used in the back court, or just over the half-court line. It is not suitable when the inbound position is well into the offensive half of the court. 1. Players line up in a diamond formation (see diagram A). 2. Player 5 (centre) is on opposite side of court near sideline. 3. Player 4 (other big man) is a few steps off the inbound passer. He will act as a stationary screener for the first two cuts. 4. Guards 1 & 2 are arranged as shown to form the diamond or "kite" shape. 5. The first cutter is guard 2 who runs straight at 4. Depending upon the position of his defender he cuts inside or outside of 4 up the side of the court. First inbound pass option is to 2 running up the side of the court. 6. If 2 does not get pass, the second cutter is 1 who also runs at 4 and depending on his defender goes to the left or right of 4. 1 is the second pass option. 7. If 1 does not get the pass he continues his cut across the lane and up the court is also an option running the opposite lane if left undefended. 9. If neither 2, 1, or 5 get open, 4 will step into open space away from the defender looking for the pass. 10. The inbound passer cuts up the court after the inbound pass. Some important points for all set out-of-bounds plays. 11. Should be one of our best passers with the ball behind the baseline. 12. In these circumstances often, the best inbound pass is a bounce pass. 13. The inbounder should not step out of court and take the ball from the referee until players are ready and lined up. 14. The inbounder should take a step back from the line to give herself plenty of room. 15. The inbounder should slap the ball or make a loud call to indicate the start of the play. 16. All players moving to the ball should do it using a V cut. That is step towards your defender to put them off balance and then cut in the opposite direction. 173