Step 1/3Both run to the rim — coach picks one
Orange = offense · blue = defense · solid line = cut · dashed = pass · zig-zag = dribble · T = screen · dotted arc = shot
Finishing drill
Elbow Race Finishing
Two lines at the elbows run to the rim; whoever the coach passes to finishes while the other one defends.
- Time
- 10 min
- Players
- 4+
- Ages
- 9+
- Level
- All levels
Equipment: 1–2 balls
How to run the drill
- 1Two lines, one at each elbow. The coach stands at the free-throw line with a ball.
- 2On the coach's signal both players run towards the basket. The coach passes to one of them.
- 3Whoever catches it is on offence and finishes; the other defends without fouling. Live on the catch.
- 4Variations: pass further out so they need a dribble, or toss the ball between them and they fight for it.
Coaching points
- Catch first, then finish — quick, not rushed
- Defender behind you: finish off one foot. Beside you: two feet
- Eyes to the rim as soon as you have it
More finishing drills
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An attacker starts behind a defender who cannot see the ball. Removing the ball from the defender's back triggers a live chase to the rim.
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1v1 No-Dribble Rim Finishing
Finish using pivots and fakes against a defender allowed just one step near the rim. Change the starting angle after every attempt.
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Deep Seal and Finish
A post player has three seconds to establish a deep seal and receive the pass, then finishes against a live defender.
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