This is a close-out drill. It will not be set up like this, but both coaches will be on the floor. Half the team will be with one, half will be with the other, and whoever goes will sprint to the other line after they go.
After the player passes the ball to the coach, they must close out immediately and get as close as they can. They must follow the ball with their hand and keep their eyes on the coach's hips. The coach will move the ball around, swaying from side-to-side or moving it around their head. When they are ready, the coach will pick a side (left or right) and start dribbling. The defender MUST DO EVERYTHING THEY CAN to jam the dribbler's protective arm by armbarring their hip. Then, they slide their feet and try to punch the ball out to cut off the drive.
This practice has no coaching points
This practice has no progressions
Rule enforcement is tightening on flops and charge-drawing. The coaches who develop real attacking skills will thrive - here's how.
Why every session should start close to the basket. Form shooting builds the muscle memory that makes all other shooting possible.
From World Cup qualifiers to rule changes and global development initiatives, basketball continues to grow worldwide. Here's what 2026 has in store.
Register for FREE and get coaching tips, top drills, session and more every week!
