Orange = offense · blue = defense · solid line = cut · dashed = pass · zig-zag = dribble · T = screen · dotted arc = shot
1v1 Rooted Defender
A defender can retreat from the three-point line but cannot step above it. The attacker reads the gap and chooses a shot or drive.
- Time
- 7 min
- Players
- 2+
- Ages
- 8+
- Level
- Beginner
Equipment: 1 ball per pair, 2 cones to mark the starting line
How to run the drill
- 1Setup: one attacker with a ball starts about 2 metres above the top of the arc. A defender starts on the arc. Mark a line across the court through the defender's starting position with two cones.
- 2Start: the attacker's first dribble makes the possession live. The defender may slide sideways or retreat towards the basket but cannot cross the marked line towards the attacker.
- 3Rules: the attacker can shoot or drive in either direction and has eight seconds to finish. The defender can contest and steal within the permitted area. The defender is not fixed to one spot; only forward movement beyond the line is restricted.
- 4Scoring and reset: a made basket earns the attacker 1 point. A turnover, defensive rebound or time expiry earns the defender 1 point. Play through offensive rebounds within the original eight seconds.
- 5Rotation: swap roles after every possession. Reset the ball and defender to their starting positions. Play first to five points, then change partners.
- 6Progression: change the starting angle or remove the line restriction so the same read is made against a fully live defender.
Coaching points
- Use the space the defender leaves
- Change pace as you reach the line
- Defender: retreat on balance and protect the rim
More ball handling drills
1-on-1 Zig-Zag
Ball handler zig-zags the length of the floor against a defender who shuffles and turns them.
1v1 Speed Dribble Race
The dribbler starts a few steps ahead and races the length of the court for a layup while the defender sprints to cut them off.
1v1 Through the Gate
The defender commits to one of two gates. The attacker recognises the open gate and tries to finish within three dribbles.
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