“There is no substitute for hard work!” ~ Vince Lombardi Legendary Pro Football Coach Green Bay Packers

Foreword This is a Manual… a Guide… or better yet a Master Plan designed for the offensive improvement of the perimeter basketball player. It is a compilation of over thirty years of observing highly skilled offensive players and the abilities that make them so very special. I believe that a highly effective offensive basketball player can be developed through specialized drills and correct repetition. This manual will be the cornerstone. This MANUAL was also developed out of dissatisfaction. This dissatisfaction and frustration stemmed from witnessing basketball players from other parts of the world whom are more skilled offensively than American players. In terms of pure athleticism – spectacular dunks, acrobatic lay-ups - I believe that American basketball players are unrivaled in the world. Yet, when you discuss pure fundamental basketball, European basketball players, in my opinion, have surpassed the Americans. The reason for this growing discrepancy in fundamental basketball is that the European basketball player, from a very early age, is given specialized basketball instructions. Most of their basketball time is supervised and spent with repetitive drills – 90% of a youngster’s shooting, ball-handling, etc. basketball time should be I can’t begin to tell you the number of 8 and 9 year-old basketball spent in a structured players whom are very tall for their age. Their respective Little League basketball environment coaches make the tragic mistake of sticking them underneath the basket where specialized individual and never work with the youngsters to develop their perimeter game. Six skills are taught. or seven years later, this man-child at 8 or 9 years old that everyone thought would be a seven-footer is now 6’4” – the size of most point guards. I contend that very young players (ages 7-12) should play very little competitive 5-on-5 basketball. Ninety percent of a youngster’s basketball time should be spent in a structured basketball environment where specialized individual skills are taught. This supervised setting where the proper fundamentals are drilled with repetition will create small victories for the youngster and thereby build confidence. But perhaps most importantly, the youngster develops a highly skilled offensive repertoire over time. A player with superior perimeter skills – whether he is 6-feet or 7-feet tall – will be highly effective in any offensive system. The game of basketball demands that you put the ball into the basket MORE than your opponent. Coaches have devised numerous offenses designed to maximize every offensive possession. Yet, ultimately, every offense breaks down into one-on-one play. In fact, basketball is a continuum of one-on-one confrontations. Every time a player receives the basketball, he/she is engaged in a confrontation with a defender. This Manual is designed to train the offensive player with the necessary dexterity to win the majority of those confrontations with the defender. It should be pointed out here that the emphasis is on team one-on-one play not selfish, ball-hogging one-on-one play. Movements are to be as It’s intent is to create special offensive players who are able to score from anywhere on the court in an efficient manner. Regardless of game-like as possible. the offense, a player must have effective one-on-one abilities either in Quickness is important. the post or the perimeter. Team offense is the sum total of each Aggression is crucial. Speed player’s individual offensive skills. The team with five offensively skilled is essential. And over time, a players working together is a team that will be tough to beat. The SCORER’S MENTALITY is crown jewel among Coaches from grade school to the NBA and WNBA is the player who has the ability to create his/her opportunities off the developed! dribble – either for himself/herself or for an open teammate. This Coach’s luxury in a player gives the Coach much more flexibility in designing an offense. With the 35-second shot clock of collegiate basketball, the 24-second shot clock

of professional basketball, and the three-point line of both leagues, the player that is able to break his/her defender down as efficiently as possible and get good shots without monopolizing the basketball is coveted. The player must be an offensive threat at all times! This Manual offers a series of what I term as “core” drills. These drills are to be practiced at EVERY workout, for I believe them to be vital in a player’s offensive repertoire. They are the essentials – the foundation upon which other moves are sprung. This Manual incorporates shooting with ball-handling. Therefore, the Coach must emphasize to the Player that not only is he/she working on his/her shooting, but his/her ball-handling as well. The Coach must not allow the Player to get lackadaisical in ones ball-handling while concentrating on making every shot for example… or vise- versa. To perform effectively, all the drills in this Manual are to be as game-like as possible. Quickness is important. Aggression is crucial. Speed is essential. And over time, a SCORER'S MENTALITY is developed! Use cones or chairs to simulate a defender. Position the cone or chair outside or slightly inside the 3-point arc. ALWAYS end the series with 10 free throws. The player should consistently make 9 or 10 free throws. The shooting of free throws after some type of movement drill forces the player to shoot while somewhat fatigued. For the entire workout, the player will shoot approximately 250 free throws. PRACTICE does NOT make PERFECT! PERFECT PRACTICE makes PERFECT! A player will reflect what he/she repeatedly do. Perfection is not just repetition. Perfection is repetition done correctly. Practicing the wrong way, using improper fundamentals and techniques can be very detrimental to the player. It is imperative for the Coach to make certain that the player’s time (… and the Coach’s time) is utilized for progress. If the player is not performing the drill correctly, not concentrating or not working hard, STOP IMMEDIATELY! Make the correction and start over! Never depend solely on just telling the player to do something – teach him/her how and why he/she should do it… then DRILL, DRILL, DRILL until the player can perform the task in their sleep. Implant in the player’s mind that the striving for perfection is the ultimate goal and the reason for being there in the gymnasium. With correct repetition of the drills prescribed in this Manual, ultimately, the Player will be on offensive auto-pilot. He/She will make quick decisions and react without thinking. A lot of Players are looking for a “magic bullet”… the “magic formula”… and I have it! It’s simple! DON’T GET OUTWORKED! That’s the magic bullet! There’s a price to pay to become the best. Quentin A. Jackson Author, Coach, Tech Developer [email protected]

“Teach i t until it becomes habit.” ~ John Wooden

Legendary College Basketball Coach UCLA

The Guide for Individual Improvement of Offensive Basketball Skills

“A man can be as great as he wants to be. If you believe in yourself and have the courage, the determination, the dedication, the competitive drive, and if you are willing to sacrifice the little things in life and pay the price for the things that are worthwhile, it can be done.” ~ Vince Lombardi Legendary Pro Football Coach Green Bay Packers

WARNING: To prevent injuries, the player should stretch and perform some kind of warm-up routine before taking part in the workouts. ______

The Key

P ~ The Player C ~ The Coach D ~ The Defender

______

“You play like you practice, and you practice like you play.” ~ Morgan Wootten Legendary High School Basketball Coach DeMatha Catholic H.S.

Stationary Ball-Handling Drills

Fingertip Control Strong hands and fingertips are imperative for basketball success. This drill will help the Player develop strength in the hands. The Player stands with arms straight and elbows stiff. On Coach’s signal, the Player begins by tapping the ball from one hand to the other at arm’s length in front of his/her body. After a sufficient amount of time, the Coach signals for Player to move the ball over his/her head while still tapping the ball from one hand to the other. Then the Player moves the ball below the midsection while tapping the ball from one hand to the other. Lastly, the Coach signals for Player to move the ball from overhead to the waist and below again in an up-and-down manner. Player should perform the drill in 30-seconds.

Around-the-Head Player stands with basketball raised slightly above the shoulders. Then the player rotates the basketball in a circular motion around the head. As the player gets a rhythm, he/she should work to increase the number of rotations around the head. The player can perform the drill for 30-seconds.

Around-the-Waist Player stands with feet parallel apart with a slight bend in the knees. The player performs the drill by bring the basketball around the waist in a circular motion. As the player develops his/her rhythm, the drill should be done as quickly as possible. 30-seconds.

Around-the-Ankles With feet together and in a crouched position, the player circles the basketball around his/her ankles as quickly as possible. Make sure the player keeps his/her head up. This will help him/her gain better confidence in his/her ball- handling ability. Have the player perform the drill for 30-seconds.

The Figure 8 With the basketball between his/her legs, the player gets in a crouched position. The player then hands the ball between his/her legs in a “figure 8” motion without dropping the ball. The player should perform the drill as quickly as possible within 30-seconds. A variation of this drill is to have the player drop the ball between his/her legs after the completion of one “figure 8” motion. The player then catches the ball after one bounce and performs another “figure 8” motion with a basketball drop. Once again, the player should perform the drill while being timed for 30- seconds.

The Pretzel The player puts the basketball between his/her legs with the hands in the back and front. Hands are then alternated quickly from back to front while the ball is dropped then caught between the legs. This drill emphasizes quickness of the hands. The player should be timed in 30-seconds. As the player progress, the Coach will stand in front of the player and hold up different numbers of fingers for the player to call aloud.

The Corkscrew The player stands with the basketball at chest-level. On the Coach’s signal, the player circles the basketball around his/her head for one rotation. Then the player circles the basketball around his/her waist for one rotation. Lastly, the player circles the ball around both ankles for the last rotation. This drill must be done as rapidly as possible with head-waist-ankles rotations occurring in succession. The player should be timed in 30-seconds.

Stationary Dribbling Drills

The Windshield Wiper In a good athletic stance with feet parallel, the player performs a crossover dribble while keeping the ball in the LEFT hand. Great drill for ball control. Emphasis is on the player’s ability to bring his/her hand on the SIDE of the basketball without a violation. As the player becomes more efficient with this drill, the Coach must challenge the player to perform the drill at a quicker pace.

The V Dribble With feet together and bending at the knees, the player dribbles the basketball back and forth in a “yo-yo” motion. As the player’s hand positions to the FRONT and BACK of the basketball with the dribble, it forms an imaginary “V” shape. Player then performs the drill with the opposite hand. Once again, the Coach should challenge the player to perform the drill as quickly as possible.

The Circle V Dribble Once again, the player stands with feet together with a slight bend in the knees. With the basketball in the RIGHT hand, player executes a CROSSOVER Dribble to the LEFT. Then with the LEFT hand, the player performs a BEHIND-THE-BACK Dribble to the RIGHT. As the movement continues, it creates a circular motion around the body with the dribble making a “V” in the front and back of the body. As the player improves, the pace of this dribble must increase. Player then performs the drill in the opposite direction. Game-like Speed!

The Figure 8 Dribble With feet a little wider than the shoulders and in a good athletic stance, the player slowly dribbles the basketball through the front of his/her legs. As the player brings the basketball from the back and around through the front again, it will make an “8”. Alternate with the direction of bringing the basketball through the front, then through the back while keeping the dribble approximately ankle-high. Always work to increase speed.

The Crossover Touch The emphasis of this drill is making the player stay LOW on his/her dribble. The player begins with feet a little wider than shoulder-width apart in a parallel position. With the basketball in the LEFT hand, the player performs a crossover dribble. As the basketball is secured with the RIGHT hand, the player squats down while lowering the LEFT shoulder to touch the floor with the LEFT hand. Continue the drill while alternating hands. Also a great drill for building leg strength. Go slow initially, then build up speed.

Ball-Handling Workout – Full Court

Speed Dribble The player starts at the baseline and dribbles full speed to the opposite end of the court. The player repeats the drill using the opposite hand. When the player returns to the starting point, it counts as one trip. The player has the option of ending each P trip with a hard lay-up. Any missed lay-ups require the player to perform another trip. After FIVE trips, the player shoots TEN free throws. Alternate between the player shooting five 2-shot free throws and 5 one-&-one free throws. A variation on this drill is the player must make 6 lay-ups in 35-seconds. If a lay-up is missed while timed, the drill is stopped and the player must start the drill from the very beginning. The Coach should emphasize to the player to concentrate and not allow fatigue to cause sloppy play – FINISH STRONG!

Between-the-Legs Dribble The player starts at the baseline. [Figure B] Using a third of the court, the player dribbles with his/her RIGHT hand two times toward the sideline. The player then plants with the RIGHT foot and dribbles between the legs changing directions toward the center of the court. As the player approaches the center lane of the court with the LEFT-hand dribble, he/she plants with the LEFT foot and dribbles the ball between the legs. The player has now changed direction and dribbles toward the sideline again. The player should change directions about TEN times before reaching the opposite baseline. The player returns while repeating the drill. When the player gets to the starting point, it counts as one trip. After FIVE trips, the player shoots TEN free throws. Alternate between the player shooting 5 two-shot free throws and 5 one-&-one free throws.

Behind-the-Back Dribble The Player starts at the baseline. [Figure B] Using a third of the court, the player takes two dribbles with his/her RIGHT hand toward the sideline. The player plants the RIGHT foot and dribbles the ball behind his/her back changing directions toward the center of the court. As the player approaches the center lane of the court with the LEFT-hand dribble, he/she plants with the LEFT foot and dribbles the ball behind his/her back. The Player is now dribbling toward the sideline once again. The Player should change directions about TEN times before reaching the opposite baseline. The Player returns while repeating the drill. When the Player gets to the starting point, it counts as one trip. After FIVE trips, the Player shoots TEN free throws. Alternate between the Player shooting 5 two-shot free throws and 5 one-&-one free throws.

P

Figure B

Crossover Dribble The Player starts at the baseline and, once again, using a third of the court, [Figure B] the Player takes two hard dribbles with his/her RIGHT hand. Player plants the RIGHT foot and dribbles the ball low to the other hand changing directions. The Player continues with two hard dribbles with the LEFT hand. He/She then plants with the LEFT foot and dribbles low to the RIGHT hand again. The Player should change directions about TEN times before reaching the opposite baseline. The Player returns while repeating the drill. When the Player gets to the starting point, it counts as one trip. After FIVE trips, the Player shoots TEN free throws. Alternate between the Player shooting 5 two-shot free throws and 5 one-&-one free throws.

Reverse Dribble (Spin Move) The Player starts at the baseline. [Figure B] Using a third of the court, the Player takes two hard dribbles with his/her RIGHT hand. The Player plants with the LEFT foot and pivots back toward the opposite direction while swinging the basketball along with his/her body. The Player then takes two hard dribbles with his/her LEFT hand and plants with the RIGHT foot. The Player then makes the reverse back toward the opposite direction while bouncing the ball along with his/her body. The Player repeats the drill down the court and back. After FIVE trips, the Player shoots TEN free throws. Alternate between the Player shooting 5 two-shot free throws and 5 one-&-one free throws.

“Repetition, over and over again.” ~ Ralph Miller Former College Basketball Coach Oregon State University

Weak Hand Drill The Player, if right-handed, stands at the LEFT box [Figure A]. Using his/her LEFT hand, the Player dribbles up the court as fast as possible without losing his/her dribble. It’s important that the Player be under control. When the Player reaches the opposite basket, he/she makes a LEFT hand lay-up. The Player then rebounds his/her own shot and dribbles with his/her LEFT hand back to the basket of origin for the LEFT handed lay-up. Player repeats the drill down the court and back. After the Player makes SIX lay-ups in 35-seconds, the Player shoots TEN free throws. Alternate between the Player shooting 5 two-shot free throws and 5 one-&-one free throws. If the Player is left- handed, perform the drill from the opposite side using the RIGHT hand. NOTE: The Player should NOT push the ball out in front of him/her and then run to catch up to it. It must be a weak hand dribble. Most players need extensive work in this area.

One Hand - Behind the Back Player starts on the baseline and with the RIGHT hand performs a BEHIND-THE-BACK Dribble WITHOUT the use of the OFF hand. Start slow to get the rhythm, then go faster. After two trips down and back, switch hands and do the drill with the LEFT hand.

The Shammgod With the ball in the RIGHT hand, release the ball out in front with a FULL Dribble. Then with the RIGHT foot plant as if you’re going RIGHT, but come LEFT. As you come LEFT and BEFORE the basketball hits the ground, REACH out with the LEFT hand and bring the ball to the LEFT and EXPLODE to the basket. Start out doing the drill slow, then perform the move as quickly as possible. Switch hands and start with the LEFT hand.

Ball-Handling Workout – Half Court

The player should perform these drills on the LEFT wing, RIGHT wing, and Top-of-the Key. Drills can also be performed so the player can shoot the jump shots beyond the 3-point arc. The Coach should also simulate the player getting open by moving without the ball. The Coach should emphasize the importance of the player changing his/her direction and speed when trying to get open. When the player receives the ball and squares up to the basket, he/she should think three things – Pass… Dribble… or Shoot!

“It’s not the will to win that matters – everyone has that. It’s the will to PREPARE to win that matters.”

~ Paul “Bear” Bryant Legendary College Football Coach University of Alabama

The Power Drive for Lay-Up This is the fundamental staple of taking the ball to the basket. It must be emphasized that the player should execute the lay-up with the fewest amounts of dribbles. For this drill, the Coach stands at half court. The player on the wing receives the ball near the RIGHT hash mark and in a quick burst drives to the basket for a lay-up. The player always uses the hand in relation to the side of the floor he/she is on. The player rebounds and outlets to the Coach while jogging to the opposite side. After TEN lay-ups are made, the player shoots TEN free throws. Alternate between the player shooting 5 two-shot free throws and 5 one-&-one free throws. NOTE: For all drills that end in lay-ups, the Coach should have the player switch between overhand lay-ups, or what are called “floaters”, and underhand finger roll lay-ups. An offensive repertoire with “runners” and “floaters” will make a player practically unguardable.

The Power Drive for Pull-Up Jump Shot Core Move This drill constitutes a “core” move for the developing player. The ability to drive hard and pull up for the jump shot under control is a move that should be perfected. In the drill, the Coach stands at half court. The player on the wing receives the ball near the RIGHT hash mark and in a quick burst drives to the basket. Two to three steps beyond the 3-point arc, the player plants and pulls up for the jump shot. The player rebounds and outlets to the Coach and performs the drill on the opposite side. After TEN made jump shots, the player shoots TEN free throws. Alternate between the player shooting 5 two-shot free throws and 5 one- &-one free throws. NOTE: It’s imperative that the player becomes highly effective with the pull-up jump shot to avoid offensive fouls. Also, this is commonly known as the “mid-range” game, which is a lost art among today’s American basketball players.

The Hesitation Move for Lay-Up The Coach stands at half court. The Player on the wing receives the pass near the RIGHT hash mark and in a quick burst, dribbles toward the cone or chair, STOPS about 3 feet away from the cone or chair, but keeps the dribble alive. Player rocks back, then blows by the cone or chair for a strong lay-up. The Player rebounds and outlets to the Coach and performs the drill on the opposite side. It’s important that the Player practices ”selling” the “STOP” while performing the “hesitation” move. After TEN lay-ups are made (switching between “floaters” and finger rolls), the Player shoots TEN free throws. Alternate between the Player shooting 5 two-shot free throws and 5 one-&-one free throws.

The Hesitation Move for Pull-Up Jump Shot With the Coach standing at half court, Player on the wing receives the ball and quickly dribbles toward the cone or chair, STOPS about 3 feet away from the cone or chair, but continues the dribble. Player rocks back, then blows by the cone or chair. Two to three steps beyond the 3-point arc, the Player plants and pulls up for the jump shot. Player rebounds and outlets to the Coach and performs the drill on the opposite side. Once again, the Player must “sell” the “STOP” while performing this move. After TEN jump shots are made, the Player shoots TEN free throws. Alternate between the Player shooting 5 two-shot free throws and 5 one-&-one free throws.

The Inside-Out Move for Lay-Up Coach stands at half court. Player receives the pass from the Coach on the wing near the RIGHT hash mark and while dribbling toward the cone or chair with his/her RIGHT hand. About 3 feet away from the cone or chair, the Player fakes hard to the left with the left foot. Player also fakes hard to the left with the dribble, then drives hard to the basket for a right-handed lay-up. Player rebounds and outlets to the Coach and performs the drill on the opposite side. After TEN lay-ups are made (alternate between “floaters” and finger rolls), the Player shoots TEN free throws. Alternate between the Player shooting 5 two-shot free throws and 5 one-&-one free throws.

The Inside-Out Move for Pull-Up Jump Shot With the Coach standing at the half court circle, Player receives the pass on the wing by the RIGHT hash mark. While dribbling toward the cone or chair with his/her RIGHT hand, the Player fakes hard to the LEFT about 3 feet away from the cone or chair. The Player drives hard to the RIGHT with the dribble past the cone or chair. Approximately two to three steps beyond the imaginary defender, the Player plants with the LEFT foot and pulls up for the jump shot. Player rebounds and outlets to the Coach and performs the drill on the opposite side. After TEN jump shots are made, the Player shoots TEN free throws. Alternate between the Player shooting 5 two-shot free throws and 5 one-&-one free throws.

The Crossover Move for Lay-Up Player receives the pass from Coach on the wing by the right hash mark and dribbles hard toward the cone or chair with his/her RIGHT hand. About 3 feet away from the cone or chair, the Player fakes hard RIGHT with the RIGHT foot and crossover dribbles low to the LEFT hand. Staying low, the Player drives hard to the basket for a LEFT- handed lay-up. Player rebounds and outlets to the Coach and repeats the drill on the opposite side. After TEN lay- ups are made (switch between “floaters” and finger rolls), the Player shoots TEN free throws. Alternate between the Player shooting 5 two-shot free throws and 5 one-&-one free throws.

The Crossover Move for Pull-Up Jump Shot The Player receives the pass from Coach on the wing by the right hash mark and dribbles hard toward the cone or chair with his/her RIGHT hand. About 3 feet away from the cone or chair, the Player fakes hard RIGHT with the RIGHT foot and crossover dribbles low to the other hand. Staying low, the Player drives hard to the basket. Approximately two to three steps beyond the cone or chair, the Player plants and pulls up for the jump shot. Player rebounds and outlets to the Coach and repeats the drill on the opposite side. After TEN jump shots are made, the Player shoots TEN free throws. Alternate between the Player shooting 5 two-shot free throws and 5 one-&-one free throws.

The Studder Step Move for Lay-Up The Player receives the pass from Coach on the right wing by the hash mark. He/She dribbles hard toward the cone or chair and about 3 feet away from the imaginary defender, the player makes 4 QUICK choppy steps and explodes by the imaginary defender for the lay-up. The player rebounds and outlets to the Coach and repeats the drill on the opposite side. After TEN lay-ups are made (swap over between “floaters” and finger rolls), the player shoots TEN free throws. Alternate between the player shooting 5 two-shot free throws and 5 one-&-one free throws.

The Studder Step Move for Pull-Up Jump Shot The Player receives the pass from Coach on the right wing by the hash mark and dribbles hard toward the cone or chair. About 3 feet away from the imaginary defender, Player makes 4 QUICK choppy steps and explodes by the imaginary defender. Approximately 2-3 steps beyond the defender, the Player plants and pulls up for the jump shot. Player rebounds and outlets to the Coach and repeats the drill on the opposite side. After TEN lay-ups are made, the Player shoots TEN free throws. Alternate between the Player shooting 5 two-shot free throws and 5 one-&-one free throws.

The Studder Step - Crossover Move for Lay-Up The Coach passes the player the ball on the right wing by the hash mark. He/she dribbles hard with the RIGHT hand toward the cone or chair. About 3 feet away from the imaginary defender, the player makes 4 QUICK choppy steps and fakes hard right with the right foot and crossover dribbles low to the other hand. Staying low, the player explodes by the imaginary defender to the basket for the lay-up. The player rebounds and outlets to the Coach and repeats the drill on the opposite side. After TEN lay-ups are made (alternate between “floaters” and finger rolls), the player shoots TEN free throws. Alternate between the player shooting 5 two-shot free throws and 5 one-&-one free throws.

The Studder Step - Crossover Move for Pull-Up Jump Shot The Coach passes the Player the ball on the right wing by the hash mark. He/she dribbles hard with the RIGHT hand toward the imaginary defender. About 3 feet away from the imaginary defender, Player makes 4 QUICK choppy steps and fakes hard right with the right foot and crossover dribbles low to the other hand. Staying low, the Player explodes by the imaginary defender to the basket. Approximately two to three steps beyond the defender, the Player plants his/her RIGHT foot and pulls up for the jump shot. Player rebounds and outlets to the Coach and repeats the drill on the opposite side. After TEN jump shots are made, the Player shoots TEN free throws. Alternate between the Player shooting 5 two-shot free throws and 5 one-&-one free throws.

The Reverse Move for Lay-Up The Coach passes the Player the basketball beyond the three-point line on the RIGHT side. The Player takes two hard dribbles with his/her LEFT hand. The Player then plants with the RIGHT foot and pivots back toward the opposite direction while swinging the basketball along with his/her body. The Player then powers to the basket for the finish with a RIGHT hand lay-up. The Player rebounds his/her shot and outlets to the Coach. The Player returns to the RIGHT side and now takes two hard dribbles with his/her RIGHT hand. The Player plants with the LEFT foot and pivots back toward the lane while swinging the basketball along with his/her body. The Player drives hard to the basket for the LEFT hand lay-up. After TEN lay-ups, the Player shoots TEN free throws. The Player then repeats the drill on the opposite side. When the drill is complete, the Player shoots TEN free throws again. Alternate between the Player shooting 5 two-shot free throws and 5 one-&-one free throws.

The Reverse Move for Pull-Up Jump Shot The Coach passes the Player the basketball beyond the three-point line on the RIGHT side. The Player takes two hard dribbles with his/her LEFT hand. Player plants with the RIGHT foot and pivots back toward the opposite direction while swinging the basketball along with his/her body. Player then takes 2 dribbles to the basket and plants his/her LEFT foot and pulls up for the jump shot. The Player rebounds and outlets to the Coach. Player then repeats the drill on the opposite side. After the Player makes TEN jump shots, he/she shoots TEN free throws. Alternate between the Player shooting 5 two-shot free throws and 5 one-&-one free throws.

The Behind-the-Back Move for Lay-Up

The Player receives the pass from the Coach by the RIGHT hash mark. [Figure C] As the Player approaches the imaginary defender, he/she takes the ball behind his/her back with his/her RIGHT hand and dribbles toward the lane. The Player then explodes to the basket for the LEFT hand lay-up. The Player rebounds D and outlets to the Coach. This time, as the Player approaches the cone or chair, the Player uses his/her LEFT hand to go behind-the-back pass the imaginary defender. The Player then power drives to the basket for the RIGHT hand lay-up. P After TEN lay-ups with each hand, the Player shoots TEN free throws. Perform C the drill on the LEFT side receiving the pass from the Coach by the LEFT hash mark. Follow with free throws. Alternate between the Player shooting 5 two-shot free throws and 5 one-&-one free throws.

Double Behind-the-Back / Crossover for Lay-Up The Player dribbles hard to the defender with the RIGHT hand. As the Player nears the defender, he/she performs a Double BEHIND-THE-BACK move. As the ball comes back to the RIGHT hand, the Player makes a hard dribble to the RIGHT as if going for a right-hand drive. The Player plants on the RIGHT foot and quickly executes the CROSSOVER Dribble to the LEFT hand. With a hard LEFT hand dribble, the Player EXPLODES to the basket.

The Behind-the-Back Move for Pull-Up Jump Shot The Player receives the pass from the Coach by the RIGHT hash mark. [Figure C] As the Player approaches the imaginary defender, he/she takes the ball behind his/her back with his/her RIGHT hand and dribbles toward the lane planting his/her RIGHT foot and pulling up for the jump shot. The Player rebounds and outlets to the Coach. This time, as the Player approaches the cone or chair, the Player uses his/her LEFT hand to go behind-the-back pass the imaginary defender. The Player then plants his/her LEFT foot and pulls up for the jump shot near the baseline. After TEN jump shots, the Player shoots TEN free throws. Perform the drill on the LEFT side receiving the pass from the Coach by the LEFT hash mark. Follow with free throws. Alternate between the Player shooting 5 two- shot free throws and 5 one-&-one free throws.

The Between-the-Legs Move for Lay-Up The Player receives the pass from the Coach by the RIGHT hash mark. [Figure C] As the Player approaches the imaginary defender, he/she takes the ball between his/her legs with his/her RIGHT hand and dribbles toward the lane. The Player then explodes to the basket for the LEFT hand lay-up. The Player rebounds and outlets to the Coach. This time, as the Player approaches the cone or chair, the Player uses his/her LEFT hand to go between- the-legs pass the imaginary defender. The Player then power drives to the basket for the RIGHT hand lay-up. After TEN lay-ups with each hand, the Player shoots TEN free throws. Perform the drill on the LEFT side receiving the pass from the Coach by the LEFT hash mark. Follow with free throws. Alternate between the Player shooting 5 two- shot free throws and 5 one-&-one free throws.

The Between-the-Legs Move for Pull-Up Jump Shot The Coach passes the Player the basketball by the RIGHT hash mark. [Figure C] As the Player approaches the imaginary defender, he/she takes the ball between-the-leg with his/her RIGHT hand and dribbles toward the lane planting his/her RIGHT foot and pulling up for the jump shot. The Player rebounds and outlets to the Coach. This time, as the Player approaches the cone or chair, the Player uses his/her LEFT hand to go between-the-legs pass the imaginary defender. The Player then plants his/her LEFT foot and pulls up for the jump shot near the baseline. Perform the drill on the LEFT side receiving the pass from the Coach by the LEFT hash mark. After TEN jump shots are made on each side, the Player shoots TEN free throws. Alternate between the Player shooting 5 two-shot free throws and 5 one-&-one free throws.

NOTE: Starting at the low block with a Coach standing beyond the top of the key, the Player should also execute drills simulating popping out from a down screen or making an “L” cut from the low block out to the foul line extended. For the vast majority of the moves, Player should always receive the ball beyond the 3-point arc.

Double Between-the-Legs for a Lay-Up The Player starts on the RIGHT hash mark and on the pass from the Coach attacks the defender with a hard RIGHT hand Dribble. As the Player approaches the defender, he/she performs a BETWEEN-THE –LEGS Dribble. When the ball comes up to the LEFT hand, the Player brings the ball back through the legs and EXPLODES to the basket with the RIGHT hand. It’s important that the Player gives him/herself space in executing the move. Spacing allows the defender to react to the set-up move. Reverse and perform the drill on the other side with the opposite hand.

Between-the-Legs / Behind-the-Back for a Lay-Up The Coach passes the Player the basketball on the RIGHT hash mark. With the ball in the LEFT hand, the Player attacks the defender with a hard dribble. As the Player approaches the defender, he/she makes a hard BETWEEN- THE-LEGS Dribble. As the ball comes to the RIGHT hand, the Player brings the ball BEHIND-THE-BACK and EXPLODES with the LEFT hand to the basket for a lay-up. Once again, combination moves require the Player to perform them in space. Don’t crowd the defender with the move. Perform the drill on the opposite side and switch hands.

The Tim Hardaway for a Lay-Up The Coach passes the Player the ball on the RIGHT hash mark. With the ball in the LEFT hand, Player dribbles hard to the defender. Then Player makes a hard BETWEEN-THE-LEGS move. As the ball comes to the RIGHT hand, Player executes a quick CROSSOVER Dribble back to the LEFT hand and EXPLODES to the basket for a Lay-Up. The BETWEEN-THE-LEGS Dribble is done to freeze the defender, then CROSSOVER Dribble is the Knockout Blow. It must be LOW and QUICK! VARIATION: Pull-up for the Jumpshot! Reverse and perform the drill with the opposite hand. ATTACK!

ONE-ON-ONE MOVES

It should be emphasized over and over that the Player must ALWAYS be in an ATTACK frame of mind while on the court. The Defender should get the feeling that the Player is relentless and his only recourse as a Defender is the Player having an “off” shooting night. Absolutely nothing that the Defender does should deter the Player from ATTACKING! Stay aggressive. Be unrelenting! ATTACK!

One Dribble Pull-Up Jump Shot Core Move This is a “core” shot that I believe the player must master. Perfecting the pull-up jump shot off one dribble will set up other moves thus making the player nearly unguardable. In this drill, the player receives pass from Coach beyond the three-point line on the RIGHT side. The player squares to the basket and explodes by imaginary defender with one RIGHT hand power dribble. The player then plants with the RIGHT foot and pulls up for the jump shot. The player returns to the same side, but then explodes with one LEFT-hand power dribble toward the lane and plants with the LEFT foot and pulls up for the jump shot. The player rebounds and outlets to the Coach and repeats the drill on the opposite side. After TEN jump shots are made on each side, the player shoots TEN free throws. Alternate between the player shooting 5 two-shot free throws and 5 one-&-one free throws.

Two Dribble Step Back Jump Shot Core Move This is another “core” move that the player should practice to perfection. It’s a shot that is virtually unblockable when executed correctly because not only is the offensive player stepping away from the defender, but the shot is a slight fade-away as well. In the drill, the player receives the pass from the Coach beyond the three-point line. The player squares to the basket on the RIGHT side and power dribbles by the chair or cone with the RIGHT hand. On the second dribble, the player steps away from the imaginary defender and pulls up for the jump shot. The player returns to the same side, but explodes with the LEFT- hand dribble pass the imaginary defender and toward the lane. On the second dribble, the player steps away from the imaginary defender and pulls up for the jump shot. The player rebounds and outlets to the Coach and repeats the drill on the opposite side. After TEN jump shots are made on each side, the player shoots TEN free throws. Alternate between the player shooting 5 two-shot free throws and 5 one-&-one free throws.

Head Fake, One Dribble Pull-Up Jump Shot The player receives pass from Coach just beyond the three-point line. Player squares to the basket and gives a strong head fake showing the ball. The player quickly explodes by imaginary defender with one RIGHT hand power dribble. The player then plants with the RIGHT foot and pulls up for the jump shot. Player returns to the same side and repeats with a strong head fake. This time the player explodes with the LEFT hand and plants with the LEFT foot and pulls up for the jump shot. The player rebounds and outlets to the Coach and repeats the drill on the opposite side. After TEN jump shots are made, the player shoots TEN free throws. Alternate between the player shooting 5 two-shot free throws and 5 one-&-one free throws.

Fake Right & Go Left for Lay-Up The Coach must make sure that the player does not lift his/her pivot foot while making the fake. The Coach passes the player the basketball at the three-point line. The player squares up to the basket and with a hard fake to the RIGHT, the player power drives to the LEFT for the LEFT-hand lay-up. The player must practice this move without picking up his/her LEFT pivot foot. Also, the player should be able to get to the rim with a maximum of two dribbles. The player rebounds and outlets to the Coach and repeats the drill on the opposite side. After TEN lay-ups are made (switch between “floaters” and finger rolls), the player shoots TEN free throws. Alternate between the player shooting 5 two-shot free throws and 5 one-&-one free throws.

Fake Right & Go Left for Pull-Up Jump Shot The Player receives the basketball at the three-point line. The Player squares up to the basket and with a hard fake to the RIGHT, the Player power drives to the LEFT toward the lane. Make certain not to “travel” by lifting the pivot foot. After two strong dribbles, the Player plants his/her RIGHT foot and pulls up for the jump shot near the foul line extended. Once again, the Player must practice this move without picking up his/her LEFT pivot foot. Also, the Player should use a maximum of two dribbles. The Player rebounds and outlets to the Coach and repeats the drill on the opposite side. After TEN jump shots are made, the Player shoots TEN free throws. Alternate between the Player shooting 5 two-shot free throws and 5 one-&-one free throws.

Fake Left & Go Right for Lay-Up The Coach passes the Player the basketball at the three-point line. The Player squares up to the basket and with a hard fake to the LEFT, the Player power drives to the RIGHT for the RIGHT hand lay-up. The Player must practice this move without picking up his/her pivot foot. Also, the Player should be able to get to the rim with a maximum of two dribbles. The Player rebounds and outlets to the Coach and repeats the drill on the opposite side. After TEN lay-ups are made, the Player shoots TEN free throws. Alternate between the Player shooting 5 two-shot free throws and 5 one-&-one free throws.

Fake Left & Go Right for Pull-Up Jump Shot The Player receives the basketball at the three-point line. The Player squares up to the basket and with a hard fake to the LEFT, the Player power drives to the RIGHT toward the baseline. After two strong dribbles, the Player plants his/her LEFT foot and pulls up for the jump shot. Once again, the Player must practice this move without picking up his/her pivot foot. Also, the Player should use a maximum of two dribbles. The Player rebounds and outlets to the Coach and repeats the drill on the opposite side. After TEN jump shots are made, the Player shoots TEN free throws. Alternate between the Player shooting 5 two-shot free throws and 5 one-&-one free throws.

Jab Step for Jump Shot The objective is the get the defender to retreat. The player receives the ball and gets in the “triple-threat” position. The player then takes a quick, 6-inch step toward the defender. Once the defender takes a step or leans back, the player rises and shoots the jump shot. The player rebounds his/her shot and outlets to the Coach. Repeat the drill on the opposite side. The Coach must emphasize the jab step being strong and convincing. The defender must think that the offensive player is going to drive to the basket. After TEN jump shots are made, the Player shoots TEN free throws. Alternate between the Player shooting 5 two-shot free throws and 5 one-&-one free throws.

The Runner This is a specialty shot that a Player can add to his/her offensive arsenal for maximum versatility. I love this shot. The Runner is a difficult shot to perfect because the Player and the target are moving, thus extensive practice is needed. With the Player near the RIGHT hash mark, the Coach throws the player the basketball. As the Player approaches the imaginary defender, he/she makes an initial move with the dribble – inside-out, studder-step, crossover, reverse, behind-the-back, between-the-legs, etc. After the initial dribble move pass the defender, the Player takes a maximum of two additional dribbles. The Player rises off of one foot while lofting the shot. The Coach must make certain that the Player practices shooting off each foot. The Player should alternate between the shots toward the lane and the shots lofted dribbling toward the baseline. The Player rebounds and outlets to the Coach and repeats the drill on the opposite side. After TEN “runners” are made on each side, the Player shoots TEN free throws. Alternate between the Player shooting 5 two-shot free throws and 5 one-&-one free throws.

Timed Shooting

The Coach should also talk about the mental aspect of shooting. Visualizing the basketball going in the basket on every release. Have a mental image of the basketball swishing through the nets every time.

Elbow Jumpers The player stands at the elbow of the free throw lane with the Coach beneath the basket. As the Coach signals to begin, the player must make 15 shots in one minute. After each shot, the player rebounds his/her shot and passes the basketball to the Coach. The player must alternate from right to left elbow. After the player makes 15 shots in the allotted time, he/she shoots TEN free throws. Alternate between the player shooting 5 two-shot free throws and 5 one-&-one free throws. If the player fails to make 15 shots in the allotted time, he/she must perform the drill again.

Seven-Spot Shooting The player stands on the right baseline just inside the three-point line. On the Coach’s signal, the player shoots the basketball while having one minute to make two shots from seven spots on the floor. The player stays at a spot until he/she makes two consecutive shots. The seven spots are: top-of-the-key; left wing; left mid baseline; left baseline; right wing; right mid baseline; and right baseline [see right figure]. After the player makes a total of 14 shots, he/she shoots TEN free throws. Alternate between the player shooting 5 two-shot free throws and 5 one-&-one free throws. If the player fails to make the 14 shots in the allotted time, he/she must perform the drill again.

NBA Three-Pointers The Player must shoot as many three-pointers from NBA range within a two-minute period. The Player rebounds his/her shot and outlets to the Coach. Then Player sets beyond the three-point arc to receive the pass. This drill is done to improve the shooting range of the Player.

3-Point Shooting The Player sets behind the three-point line and must make 100 three-pointers in ten minutes. The Player rebounds his/her shot and outlets to the Coach. After each made shot, the Player must move at least 5-feet in any direction. Time can be adjusted to the ability of the Player (Try 50 three-pointers in 5 minutes). This is an extremely tough drill because of the fatigue factor. After Player makes the shots in the allotted time, he/she shoots TEN free throws. Alternate between the Player shooting 5 two-shot free throws and 5 one-&-one free throws.

Free Throw Shooting Drills

Consecutive Free Throws The player shoots free throws until there is a miss. The Coach makes note of the number of made free throws, with the goal of surpassing that number at the next workout. For a little twist, the Coach can devise little ways of distracting the player – clapping, yelling, stomping, etc. This will force the player to concentrate deeper on making the free throws.

Swish Free Throws This is a great drill for fine tuning a player’s free throw shooting touch. The player shoots TWENTY free throws. The Coach only counts those that swish through the net without touching the rim. The Coach makes a note of the number of swish free throws out of twenty shots. The player is to increase that number at the next workout.

Eyes Closed Free Throws This is a great drill in helping the player to develop his/her mental imagery in shooting. Picturing the ball going through the nets every time is the key to exceptional shooting. With this drill, the player will conduct his/her regular pre-free throw shooting routine. Just before the player goes into his/her shooting motion, the Coach stops the player and tells him/her to close their eyes - then shoot. The player shoots TWENTY free throws. The number of made free throws should increase at the subsequent workout.

“A player must be trained thoroughly. He must repeat the same drills over and over in practice so that he automatically responds to a situation.” ~ Vince Lombardi Legendary Pro Football Coach Green Bay Packers

FUN… FUN… FUN!

The “Beat The Pro” Drill The player imagines he/she is playing his/her favorite pro player – LeBron James, Lisa Leslie, Kobe Bryant, Kevin Garnett, Diana Taurasi, Kevin Durant, etc. The drill is performed at game-like speed. The player receives the pass from the Coach and shoots a jump shot from beyond the three-point arc. When the player makes the shot, it counts as ONE point. If the player misses, it counts as TWO points for the “Pro.” The player rebounds and outlets to the Coach and sets up to receive the pass. The game is over when either the Player reaches a score of 21, or the “Pro” reaches a score of 20. When the score is reached, the Player shoots TEN free throws. Alternate between the Player shooting 5 two-shot free throws and 5 one-&-one free throws. Vary the types of shots – one-dribble pull-up, catch- and-shoot, fade-aways, NBA-three-pointers, etc. – be creative and most importantly… Have FUN!

BONUS

The 5-Second Drill THIS DRILL IS PERFORMED WITH TWO PLAYERS. The 5-Second Drill is designed to condition the Player to create a good shot by breaking his/her defender down in five seconds. Player #1 receives the pass from the Coach near the RIGHT hash mark with Player #2 defending. The Coach begins to count down aloud as soon as Player #1 receives the basketball. Player #1 must make 5 shots. Both Players shoot TEN free throws. Coach performs the same drill with Player #2 receiving the pass near the RIGHT hash mark and Player #1 on defense. After Player #2 makes 5 shots and both Players shoot their free throws, the drill is conducted on the LEFT side. The point of emphasis is to get a GOOD shot every time!

The 3-Dribble Drill THIS DRILL IS ALSO PERFORMED WITH TWO PLAYERS. The 3-Dribble Drill is also designed to condition the Player to create a good shot in an efficient manner by using only three dribbles. Player #1 receives the pass from the Coach near the RIGHT wing beyond the three-point line. At that point, the play begins. Player #1 must make 5 shots. Both Players shoot TEN free throws. The Coach performs the same drill with Player #2 receiving the ball beyond the three-point line and Player #1 defending. After Player #2 makes 5 shots and both Players shoot their free throws, the drill is conducted on the LEFT side.

The Touch Finder This is a great drill to help the Player develop his/her shooting touch. Player stands one-foot away from the front of the rim and shoots the basketball. The ball must hit nothing but net and absolutely cannot hit the rim. The Player must stay at the location until he/she makes the basket without hitting the rim. Once the Player accomplishes this, he/she takes a step back and completes the same task. The Player performs the drills until he/she is shooting a free throw. Once again, the Player is not finished until he/she makes the shot without hitting the rim. The points of emphasis are (1) fingertip control, (2) excellent follow-through, and (3) proper ball rotation.

Heavy Ball Shooting This is an excellent drill at the very end of a workout. It will increase a player’s shooting range by strengthening the arm, wrist, and fingers. The player sits on the floor about three-feet away from the Coach. With the “heavy ball”, the player simulates his/her shot with the Coach. Sitting on the floor forces the player to use his/her shooting motion without the use of his/her legs. After FIVE “shots” the Coach takes a step back. The player again simulates his/her shot with the Coach now standing a little further back. The drill continues until the Coach is standing approximately 15-feet away from the player. The player will “shoot” approximately fifty times to the Coach. NOTE: It’s imperative that the Player performs no other shooting after performing the Heavy Ball drill. The player can perform some other strengthening or conditioning exercises – push-ups, sit-ups, sprints, etc. – but absolutely no other shooting!