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How to use your body in basketball
How To To Set & Use A Pick In Basketball
By Joe Haefner
Home > Coaching > Basketball Offense > How To Set & Use A Pick In Basketball
Picks in basketball are an invaluable tool that will give the offense many opportunities to score. If you know how to properly set a pick and how to use a pick, the defense will have trouble defending you. The greatest players in the game are masters at utilizing picks to create space for open shots not only for themselves, but also for their teammates. If you want to be truly great at utilizing picks, study film on players like Kevin Durant, Reggie Miller, Richard Hamilton, Steve Nash, and Chris Paul.
Picks are also often referred to as screens. You can set many different types of picks like the down pick, cross pick, ball pick, flare pick, new york pick, slash pick, flex pick, stagger pick, and many more.
Here's the definition of a pick:
When an offensive player legally blocks the path of a defender to open up another offensive player for a shot or to receive a pass.![]()
When setting the pick, you should:
- Feet spread - you want to create a wide base that is hard for the defender to get around.
- Hips down and knees bent - you want to be in an athletic solid position with your hips down and your knees bent, so it is difficult for the defender to nudge by you or knock you off balance.
- Back pointing to targeted area - you want to have your back pointing to the direction that you want the player using the pick to go.
- Stationary - you want to be stationary before the offensive player comes off of your pick. If you are moving as you set the pick, that is an illegal screen and an offensive foul will be called on you. Make sure to pick an area and let the offensive player run off of your pick.
- Protect yourself - place your hands in a position on your body to protect yourself. However, make sure you don't extend your arms toward the defensive player.
- Communicate the pick - make sure to let the offensive player know the pick is coming. You can do this by raising your hand and calling out the player's name.
- Open up to the ball - after the offensive player comes off of your pick, turn towards the ball and find an open space on the floor. Many times, the person who sets the pick is the player that ends up being open. If you set a ball pick, you can "roll" or "slip" to the basket or "pop" to an open area in the high post or perimeter.
When using the pick, you should:
- Fake opposite - before you come off of the pick, you should fake in the opposite direction to set up the defender. This will help you run the defender into the pick. If the defender cheats over the pick, cut backdoor.
- Shoulders by picker's hip - as you come off the pick, make sure to get low and get your shoulders at the same height as the player who is setting the pick.
This will prevent the defender from knocking you off of your path while maintaining good balance to catch and shoot or catch and drive.
- Think Curl - whenever you come off of a pick, think curl. This will create an aggressive mentality that will be hard to guard. When the defense starts to adjust, you can fade, pop out, or cut backdoor. By thinking curl, these options will open up even more.
Related Pages and Helpful Resources
Executing The Basketball Pick and Roll
Basic Basketball Screens
Basketball Pick and Roll Drills
What do you think? Let us know by leaving your comments, suggestions, and questions...
Basketball Post Play Skills to Help You Dominate the Paint
Good, better, best. Never let it rest, until your good is better and your better is best. – Tim Duncan
Playing in the PostIt is a common misconception to assume that unless you are tall or solidly built that you, therefore, don’t need to learn how to play effectively in the Post.
There is no doubt that tall and strong players are more likely to find themselves playing in the Post position throughout the game. However, at any moment in time, you may find yourself matched up man-to-man within the key area holding the basketball. There are essentially two scenarios here. Either kick the ball out or “school” your Opponent with a nifty post move of your own.
Which option would you choose? Isn’t it better to know rather than to be ignorant and miss a perfect opportunity to score?
This IQ Matrix map will specifically focus on the key components, techniques, and strategies on how to play effectively in the Post.
This article post is part of a Basketball Success Series of IQ Matrix maps. Topics within this series include:
• Part 1: Basketball Shooting Skills
• Part 2: Basketball Defensive Skills
• Part 3: Basketball Dribbling Skills
• Part 4: Basketball Passing Skills
• Part 5: Basketball Offensive Skills
• Part 6: Basketball Rebounding Skills
• Part 7: Basketball Movement Tactics
• Part 8: Basketball Post Play Skills
• Part 9: Basketball Mindset Strategies
Post Play BasicsThe 1st Branch of this IQ Matrix Mind Map breaks down some fundamental aspects of playing in the Post.
We Specifically discuss effective Post positioning, shooting, shot fakes, and the principles of drawing fouls in the Post area.
Post Positioning StrategyPlaying in the Post requires a great deal of commitment, strength, agility, and discipline. For this reason, you must master the fundamentals that will help you to establish good, solid Post positioning at all times on the basketball court. With these principles thoroughly ingrained into your psyche and body, you will be able to solidify yourself as an effective inside Post presence.
Your PhysiologyHow you position yourself in the Post area and to what effect you use your body will determine how effectively, efficiently and quickly you will be able to establish yourself as a solid inside presence on your team.
The following presents you with a few guidelines that will help balance, prepare and strengthen your body and stance when playing in the Post area:
Wide Stance
In order to gain maximum strength and balance, it is important to utilize a wide and solid stance that glues you securely to the ground.
You need to be a “force” when playing in the post area, and your stability always begins with your feet.
Bum Sticking Out
Your Bum is to be utilized as a leveraging tool against your Opponents. However, in order for it to be effective, you must position it so that it sticks out behind you. Only in this way will you be able to gain the necessary leverage to move your Opponents in an effective and efficient manner that will enable you to rebound and score with greater ease and proficiency.
Knees Bent
Your knees are like Springs that will help you to jump with force, speed and precision. They will also assist you to solidify your stance and position on the basketball court. Finally, they are also utilized for balancing purposes and leveraging your Opponent under the basket. However, in order for your knees to be effective, you must bend them slightly to allow you to solidify yourself in the Post.
Back Straight
When your back is straight you naturally have better balance, stability, and agility to move any which way at a moments notice.
It also makes you taller and positions your shoulders and hands higher, thusly enabling you to get better reach when receiving a pass or pulling down a rebound. Conversely, arching your Back forward will tend to destabilize you and will allow your Opponent to knock you off balance with the slightest shove.
Shoulder’s Parallel to Backboard
You must train yourself to hold your shoulders parallel to the backboard when going up for the rebound or taking a shot from the Post area. This will yet again balance your body and enable you the best possible chance of scoring a basket or pulling down the rebound.
Provide a 2-Handed Target
Whenever possible always provide a two-handed target for your Teammates to pass to. This means raising your hands above your shoulders with open palms and fingers spread. Only in this way can you maximize your ability to receive a pass from your Teammates. Finally, as a general rule, whenever you are positioned within the Key area, always raise your hands in the air, thusly providing an ongoing target for your Teammates to pass to.
Location of Post PositioningAs a Post Player, you would position yourself in and around the basketball Key area either high at the free-throw line or low on either side of the basket. Keep in mind that you cannot stay within the Key area for longer than 3 seconds at a time. Therefore it is paramount that you make sure to gain Post positioning just outside of this Key area. Once you have the ball you can then begin working your way towards the basket.
Post Shooting StrategyAs a Post Player, it is important to develop the ability to use both hands when shooting under the basket. You should ideally shoot with your right hand on the right side of the basket, and use your left hand when shooting on the left side of the basket. However, if you Opponent is bearing down on you on your left or right side then you must use your non-contact hand (the furthest hand from your Defender) to shoot the ball with.
To be effective when shooting with your non-contact hand, make sure to release the ball slightly in front of your body and head.
This should allow you just enough leverage to ensure that your Defender doesn’t reach over the top of your head to block your shot.
Whenever going up for the shot in the Post, you must always be consciously aware of using your body appropriately to protect the ball from your Opponents. As a general rule, your body must always be between your Opponent and the basket.
Finally, when shooting the ball from under the basket, be sure to hit the top corner of the small square on the backboard softly to ensure that your shot has the most chance of going into the rim.
Faking Shot in the PostIn many instances, it will be very crowded within the Post area, and you will need to know how to fake your Defender in order to create more space for yourself to shoot the ball in the Post.
Initiate your fake by pumping (lifting) with your head and the ball. At the same time keep your Bum out and knees bent to maintain maximum power within your legs.
Drawing the Foul in the PostDrawing effective fouls within the Post area is a fundamental skill in basketball.
Great Post Players have an uncanny ability to draw fouls from their Opponents. This, therefore, allows them to score cheap points from the free-throw line.
To draw a foul from your Defender, begin by creating contact with them in mid-air as the Defender is coming down after their jump. At this point simply lean in by planting your inside shoulder into your Opponent. And finally, make sure to finish your shot with your outside hand, which is the hand furthest away from the body contact of your Defender.
“In Game” Post Play ScenariosThe 2nd Branch of this IQ Matrix Mind Map tackles some “In Game” scenarios for getting open and receiving the ball in the Post. We specifically discuss what to do and what NOT to do when getting open in the Post area. We also break down the mechanics of how to receive the ball in the Post using one and two hands.
Getting Open in the PostThe following are a set of guidelines that will help you to avoid fouling, turning the ball over, and will enable you to get good position to receive the ball in the Post.
Don’t Lean Back into DefenderWhen you are leaning back and literally resting on your Defender in the Post area with your Back and Bum, this should immediately tell you that you are off balance and do not have stable footing on the ground. The instant your Defender decides to step back, you will most likely lose your footing and could potentially fall to the ground.
Don’t Push Off DefenderAny type of pushing with your hands or arms within the Post area will most likely be called as a foul. Gaining position and leverage is not about pushing your Opponent off balance. It is rather about effective footwork and perfect balance.
Don’t Knock Defender’s Arms AwayDefenders will always attempt to frustrate you by reaching in with their arms to prevent you from receiving a pass from your Teammates. If you get into the habit of physically knocking their arms away then it’s very likely you will be called for the foul.
Instead, work on getting better foot positioning, which will likewise help you win the “arm battle”.
Don’t Extend Elbows to Create SpaceWhen playing in the Post area it is very tempting to extend your elbows in order to gain more space. This, however, can work against you, especially if you swing your elbows wildly into your Opponent’s body and face. Instead, consciously contain and control your elbows by keeping them closer into your body. This does not mean that you should never extend them. To the contrary, extending your elbows is a great tactic once you have taken a rebound and tucked the ball under your chin. However, still under these circumstances be very careful not to swing them uncontrollably, otherwise, you may be called for the offensive foul, or worse still, injure someone in the process.
Gain Leverage through Solid FootworkHow you use your feet will not only allow you to gain leverage on your Defender in the Post, it will also enable you to maintain good stability and balance to ensure that you are most effectively poised and positioned when receiving the ball from your Teammate.
Good stability and balance are achieved when your feet are positioned wide and your head is squarely over your knees. This will ensure that you a securely grounded and can take maximum advantage of your body to gain leverage and better positioning over your Defender.
Once you have position in the Post you must seal your Defender off in order to receive the ball from your Teammate. To do this you must effectively control your footwork by shuffling your feet to gain maximum positioning, by bodying up your Defender hip-to-hip and body-to-body in the post, and if necessary stepping over your Defender’s foot if that is what’s required to gain maximum leverage in the Post to safely and securely receive the ball from the perimeter.
Gain Leverage Using ArmsYour arms are just as important as your feet when it comes to gaining leverage over your Opponent in the Post. If your Opponent wants to instigate an arm battle inside the Post area then oblige them by utilizing bicep and armpit clamps.
Also, gain maximum leverage by using your arm-bar to create space for yourself to receive the pass from your Teammate. Once you have locked your arm-bar into your Opponent, simply reach over with your “free hand” to receive the ball from your Teammate.
Catching the Ball in the PostYou can catch the ball in the Post in one of two ways. By catching with 1 hand or with 2 hands. The following set of guidelines takes you through the process on how to catch the ball in the Post using these options.
Catching with 2 HandsBefore receiving the pass from your teammate, make sure that you have both of your hands outstretched with your palms open and all 10 fingers providing a target for your Teammate to pass to.
When you see the pass coming towards you, immediately release your Opponent from the seal you created and jump towards the ball landing in a hop while tucking the ball under your chin for maximum protection.
From here you can instigate any number of Post moves within your repertoire.
Catching with 1 HandStep into the pass while using your offhand arm-bar against your Defender. This arm-bar is to be utilized as a leveraging tool to keep your Opponent at bay and allow you to securely take the pass from your Teammate.
As soon as you receive the pass, drag your back-foot into your Defender. This will allow separation between you and your Opponent, which will further open up space within the Post area for you to instigate any number of Post moves within your repertoire.
Finally, when you catch the ball in the Post with 1 hand, be sure to immediately tuck the ball into your chest area in shooting position. At the same time keep your shoulders up and your elbows vertical in order to maximize the leverage you have gained over your Opponent.
Post Play Training MovesThe 3rd Branch of this IQ Matrix Mind Map provides a quick overview of several Post Play training moves for you to practice and assimilate into your game.
We specifically target moves you can make while facing the basket, and with your back to the basket.
Post Moves: Facing the BasketThe following describes several Post moves you can utilize when facing the basketball rim. It is important to practice these moves regularly and consistently up until the point they become second nature. Only then will you gain the necessary confidence to make the best use of these moves during “In Game” situations.
Hook ShotBegin by facing the basket and holding the basketball waist high. You will be using your left foot as your pivot. Now face the rim just outside of the Key area on the right side of the basket. Turn sideways making sure that your shooting arm and the ball are straight out to the side, and not in front of your body. Make sure also that both your shoulders and the ball are positioned in a straight line. Your right elbow must be pointing behind you and positioned slightly down. While your left elbow must be pointing towards the basket positioned slightly up.
Now, square up to the basket by aligning your shoulders and the ball in a straight line to the basket you are shooting at. Finally, hook the ball directly over your head using a simple wrist flick motion.
Jump HookThe execution of the Jump Hook is almost exactly the same as was discussed for the Hook Shot above. The only difference is that you must jump when you shoot the Hook Shot. This allows you better height and arc on your shot, which comes into full effect against taller Opponents.
Fake, Step, HookBegin by facing the basket. Step fake to your left and pivot forward about a quarter turn. Now square-up to the basket and shoot the Hook Shot.
Step Fake and Shoot Around BasketBegin by facing the basket holding the ball waist high and making sure that your knees are slightly bent. Now, initiate the Step Fake by slowly pushing the ball in a direction away from your pivot foot, while simultaneously stepping in the same direction.
Once you have initiated the fake, bring your feet back in so that they are now shoulder-width apart as you move the ball over your head. From this position, square-up to the basket and shoot the ball.
Pivot Fake and Shoot Around BasketBegin by facing the basket. Now pivot forward about 180° degrees so that your back is now facing the basket. From this position simply push the basketball to the outside as you initiate the Pivot Fake. Now pivot backward again into your original position facing the basket. Make sure to hold the ball above your head. From this position square-up to the basket and shoot the basketball.
Post Moves: Back to BasketThe following describes several Post moves you can utilize when you have your back towards the basketball rim. It is important to practice these moves regularly and consistently up until the point they become second nature. Only then will you gain the necessary confidence to make the best use of them during “In Game” situations.
Spin and GoBegin with your Back to the basket. Determine where the defense is pressuring you most (to your left or right). Immediately pivot off your Defender and spin towards the basket attacking the weak-side where you experienced the least pressure from your defender.
Step HookBegin with your Back to the basket. Now pivot a quarter turn with your right foot. Step with your left foot, square-up to the basket and shoot the basketball.
Step, Pound, and HopBegin with your Back to the basket. Fake the ball in one direction. Now, point your lead foot and toe into the direction you want to go and immediately drop-step to the other side. Follow this up by moving aggressively towards the basket with one power dribble dropping the ball down with two hands. Now land in a hop on both feet and shoot the basketball.
Hook ShotBegin with your Back to the basket while holding the basketball about waist high.
You should ideally be positioned about a step to the left of the basket. Once positioned, simply pivot and turn 90° degrees forward, square-up to the basket and shoot the ball.
Pivot Backwards and ShootBegin with your Back to the basket. Raise the ball above your head then pivot back towards the basket. Now square-up to the basket and shoot the ball.
Pivot Around BasketBegin with your Back towards the basket on the right side. You will be using your left foot as your pivot foot. Now, move one step to the left, so that after you pivot you are in a good position to shoot the ball. Raise the ball over your head and then pivot forward to face the basket. Now, square-up to the basket and shoot the basketball.
Post Play Tips and StrategiesThe 4th Branch of this IQ Matrix Mind Map provides you with a number of essential Post Play tips, techniques, and strategies that will help you to excel as an inside force on the basketball court.
We specifically break down the mindset you must bring to every game, the skills you must master and discuss several “In Game” tactics you can utilize to get the edge on your Opponents.
The Mindset of a Post PlayerGreat Post Players have certain and specific qualities that enable them to gain the most out of their abilities when playing under the basket. These qualities are quite generic and apply to many aspects of basketball and life. However, when it comes to Post Play, they are of critical importance, and will help you to gain the most out of your potential in quick succession. Here they are in no particular order:
PatientA Great Post Player is incredibly patient all the time. They realize that mastering the skills that are required to play in the Post can take a lot of time and practice. They also understand that playing effectively from the Post requires patience to set up your Opponent in the perfect position to score a basket; patience to pinpoint gaps that open up in defensive sets, and patience to learn the movement and footwork that is necessary to excel as a Great Post Player.
DeterminedA Great Post Player is at all times 100% determined and committed to score a basket, to pull down a rebound or to draw a double team that will help one of their Teammates to get off an easy shot. Their determination when hustling for loose balls is just extraordinary and helps win the hearts of their Teammates.
PersistentA Great Post Player Never Gives Up! They always do whatever it takes to follow up a missed shot, to tip the ball into the basket, or to get their hands on a rebound that seems almost out of reach. And it is this persistence that wins them a loyal fan following and makes them the undisputed “heart” of their team.
Mentally Resilient and ToughBecoming a Great Post Player not only requires physical strength, stamina, and agility, it also requires a mental resilience and toughness that will keep a Post Player playing at their highest level from the moment they step onto the basketball court, till the moment the final buzzer sounds to end the game.
When the body tires from physical strain and exhaustion, then it’s up to the mind to stand tall and help the Post Player to keep “keeping on” no matter what their physical condition or “In Game” circumstances.
Asks QuestionsA Great Post Player always asks themselves questions throughout the game. These questions enable them to gain new and better insights about the game, themselves, their Teammates and Opponents.
A Great Post Player understands that they are in a very important and powerful position on the basketball court. Within this position, they are able to draw defenses and double-teams, which consequently helps their Teammates get wide open scoring opportunities on the basket.
Specifically, when it comes to shooting, a Great Post Player will ask themselves the following set of 3 questions before shooting the basketball. These questions enable them to make better and more calculated decisions during the game:
Is there traffic in the key area?
Is there space to make my move?
Is one of my Teammates open to receive the pass?
A Post Player’s Critical SkillsPlaying in the Post requires a certain set of skills that a Post Player must learn and master in order to be the very best they can be on the basketball court.
The more these skills are developed, the more effective the Post Player will be throughout the game, and the more valuable they will be to their team.
Shooting 80% + Free-ThrowsA Post Player will find themselves playing under the basket and in the Key area for the majority of the game. Within this region of the basketball court there usually isn’t much room to move, making physical contact a very real possibility every single time down the court. As a result, the Post Player is likely to get fouled often while shooting the basketball. This will put them at the free throw line where they are expected to hit the vast majority of their shots in order to justify their efforts under the basket.
Great Post Players are in essence complete players and are therefore able to hit over 80% of their free throws from the line. Anything less than this is just not good enough and will impact your team in a very negative way. You also work hard to get good looks at the basket from the Post position.
If you get fouled, you, therefore, deserve to give yourself justice by hitting your Free Throws and penalizing the defense for their foul. And if over time your free throw shooting improves to such an extent that you are hitting almost every shot when you step up to the line, then this can only help your offensive game as Defenders will tend to hesitate to foul you, fully knowing you will hit your free throws.
Creative and Solid Passing AbilityWhen playing in the Post, you will usually find yourself being double and sometimes triple-teamed by your Opponents. In such instances, your Teammates will most likely be available for open looks at the basket. However, if your passing ability isn’t up to scratch then you will simply fail to find your Teammates when these scoring opportunities pop up. This is why it is of major importance that you are able to develop solid and creative passing skills and awareness.
Good Defensive FootworkWhen you are on the defensive end of the floor you will naturally be guarding good Post players on the other team.
In order to prevent them from scoring easy baskets, you will need to develop solid defensive footwork that will enable you to always stay between your player and the basket.
Defensive Anticipation SkillsLeading on from Good Defensive Footwork, you also need to develop the ability to anticipate your Opponent’s movements at a moments notice. This involves knowing when your Opponent is going to drive to the basket, realizing when your opponent is faking a shot, and understanding when to jump and how to reach for the ball in order to prevent your Opponent from scoring a basket.
“In Game” Tactics for Post PlayersThe following set of “In Game” tactics outlined below will help a Post Player to become more efficient and effective when playing in the Post. In essence, these tactics are nothing more than essential habits that must be developed at such a deep level of awareness that they become second nature, and can be actioned during a game without thinking.
Playing in the Key AreaWhen you have the ball and you are playing in the Key area, it is important to remember to use your dribble sparingly. It is usually very crowded within the Key as many players fight for position. And therefore, the less you use your dribble, than the less likely you are to turn the ball over unnecessarily.
Because it is so crowded within the Key area, it is important for a Post Player to protect the ball at all costs in order to avoid unexpected strips or deflections from Opponents. The best way to protect the ball is to make the most use of your shoulders, chin, and chest to help maneuver the ball away from the grasp of Defenders. As a general rule, whenever possible, keep your body between the ball and your Defender at all times.
Gaining Leverage and PositioningWe have already discussed how important it is to gain good positioning within the Post area. If you are not capable of gaining good positioning then you will struggle to be effective throughout the game.
To gain good positioning within the Post, be sure to always think about creating maximum space between you and your Opponent. Also, utilize effective footwork and arm movement tactics to seal your Defender behind you so that you can easily catch the pass from your Teammates.
Finally, playing in the Post is all about your ability to gain maximum leverage over your Opponent. The better you are at gaining leverage, than the more space you will create for yourself, and the more effective your Post moves will become.
Other Post Play Tactics to Keep in MindHere are a few other Post Play tactics that you should keep in mind when playing a game. These are all very much self-explanatory, however, they will take time to master through conscious awareness, practice, and repetition.
Keep Things Simple
Playing in the Post is all about keeping things as simple as possible. Don’t complicate matters by trying to be too fancy or doing too much. Instead, go for the high percentage plays and make the most use of your strengths and abilities.
Read Your Defense
Pay solid attention to your Opponents while on the basketball court. Get a sense for their reactions, where their eyes focus, what defensive and offensive moves they consistently utilize, and how they use their body position to their advantage.
Once you are consciously aware of your Opponent’s habits, moves, and actions then you will be better able to counteract their effectiveness on the basketball court.
Everyone you play against is like an open book. All you have to do is read it/them.
Run Length of Floor
Many Post Players believe that their role is to just gain position under the basket. Therefore anything that involves running simply does not fit into their game plan.
Did you know that it actually takes a very special Post Player to run the length of the floor on the fast-break? These players are special because it is so very rare to find. And if you become one of these players, then you will have an undeniable edge over your counterparts who couldn’t be bothered running the length of the floor on defense or offense.
Running the length of the floor will also provide you with new and potentially uncontested opportunities to score baskets.
Develop a “Go To Move”
Great Post Players have perfected a “Go To Move” in the Post that they utilize to great effect on unsuspecting Defenders. Yes, it will take time and practice to develop and master this move. However, the long-term benefits will certainly be worth the effort. You may like to start with the Post Play moves discussed a little earlier. Once you have mastered a few of them, you can then mix them up and create a “Go To Move” that incorporates several moves and “Fakes” in a few deadly steps.
Develop Counter Moves
Great Post Players understand that solid Defenders will read them like a book and will be fully aware of the repertoire of moves that can be initiated from the Post position. In such instances, these Great Post Players develop several Counter Moves that draw the defender IN while opening up new avenues to the basket.
The key here is to be creative and unpredictable, always leaving your Defender second guessing what you will do next.
Recognize Scoring Opportunities & Gaps
A Great Post Player has an exceptional ability where they are able to recognize scoring opportunities and gaps within defensive sets that others simply would not see. However, this isn’t something that can be taught through reading an article, it is instead something that comes through experience on the basketball court.
The key here is to always be aware, to read your Opponent accordingly, and to take advantage of what they give you each and every time down the court.
Concluding ThoughtsPlaying effectively in the Post requires dedication, commitment, practice, and patience. There is no doubt that it is arguably the most difficult position to master on the basketball court, as it involves close contact and provides you with little space to move or get to the basket.
However, with a dedicated spirit and a willingness to learn, anyone can master the footwork and technical skills that are required to play this position, no matter how tall, small, bulky or lean you may be. After all, the only limitation is the limitations you set in your mind.
Time to Assimilate these ConceptsDid you gain value from this article? Is it important that you know and understand this topic? Would you like to optimize how you think about this topic? Would you like a method for applying these ideas to your life?
If you answered yes to any of these questions, then I’m confident you will gain tremendous value from using the accompanying IQ Matrix for coaching or self-coaching purposes. This mind map provides you with a quick visual overview of the article you just read. The branches, interlinking ideas, and images model how the brain thinks and processes information. It’s kind of like implanting a thought into your brain – an upgrade of sorts that optimizes how you think about these concepts and ideas.
🙂
Recommended IQ Matrix Bundles The Basketball MVP 10 Map Bundle includes a selection of hand picked maps designed to help you understand the fundamentals of the game of basketball for coaches and junior players. The Mental Toughness 10 Map Bundle includes a selection of hand picked maps designed to help you develop the mental toughness needed to overcome any problem or challenge. The Goal Setting 10 Map Bundle includes a selection of hand picked maps that are designed with two objectives in mind: To help you set more effective goals and to help you achieve them.
If you’re intrigued by the idea of using mind maps for self-improvement then I would like to invite you to become an IQ Matrix Member.
If you’re new to mind mapping or just want to check things out, then register for the Free 12 Month Membership Program. There you will gain access to over 90 mind maps, visual tools, and resources valued at over $500.
If, on the other hand, you want access to an ever-growing library of 100s of visual tools and resources, then check out our Premium Membership Packages. These packages provide you with the ultimate visual reference library for all your personal development needs.
Gain More Knowledge…Here are some additional links and resources that will help you learn more about this topic:
- The Coach’s Clipboard
- Basketball Playbook
- Coach Like a Pro
- Basketball Life Tips
Recommended Products- Better Basketball DVDs @ Better Basketball.com
5 Basketball Exercises to Move the Ball with Passes
There is nothing better than watching a team move the ball quickly and efficiently around the court without greed.
Overcoming the defense with smart passing the ball to each other, creating situations for open shots and passes is one of the great offensive techniques.
Want your team to do it?
Basketball passing exercises in this article will help you with this.
But first let me explain something very important...
There are two types of training exercises:
1. Technique for passing the ball.
2. Decision making during transfers.
Unfortunately, most coaches only focus on the "technical" aspect of training and forget how to train their team's decision-making ability when it comes to sharing the ball.
Your players will not improve their game passes by doing thousands of repetitions of chest passes.
While technical drills have their place, they are far less important than passing drills with decision making.
We must let the players learn how to read the defense and make the right decisions.
In addition, ball passing exercises are great for starting a workout to warm up your team and get them to communicate and work together.
5 ball passing exercises.
1. Advance
How the drill works:
Players form 3 columns evenly distributed along the end line. The two outside players start with the balls.
3 players advance across the court passing the ball back and forth to the middle player and then finish the exercise with two shots from under the basket.
Purpose:
A fun passing exercise that works on catching and passing without running, with communication, timing, and shooting from under the basket at game speed.
Formation:
Players form 3 columns behind the end line.
Two players on the outside lines have balls.
Instructions:
3 players (1, 2 and 5) begin to move forward on the court. The 1st outside player passes the ball to the 2nd player in the middle line.
Immediately upon receiving the ball, the center line player returns the ball to the same player on the touchline.
The 1st middle player then turns to the other side and receives a pass from the 5th outside player and immediately returns the ball to him.
Outside players may use 1-2 steps to avoid running.
The drill continues until the players reach the opposite 3-point line. When this happens, the two outside dribblers go to the basket and shoot.
The group then waits at the opposite end for the rest of the groups to complete the exercise before starting the exercise on the other side. On the right scheme at the top, the three players (4, 3 and 2) continue the exercise according to the scheme described above.
Options:
Medium or 3-point shots. Instead of ending with a run to the basket, players may end with mid-range shots or 3-point shots.
Back and forth - Instead of waiting at the other end, the troika can complete the drill both ways. Only now the threes are placed on both end lines and begin the exercise when the three from the opposite side return to their half of the court.
One Ball - If you are coaching very young players, you can run this exercise with one ball until the players understand how it works.
Coach's notes:
Passes must be passed on the move in front of the player using proper passing technique.
The receiver must hold his hands at goodie level, showing 10 fingers and calling for the ball to be passed to him.
The middle player must catch the ball and quickly pass the ball to a running partner. Don't run!
Shooting technique while moving from under the basket is very important in this exercise. Watch your footwork and make sure all players are doing it right.
2. Monkey in the middle
How the exercise works:
Players are divided into groups of three. Each group has one ball. The two transmitters lined up 12 to 15 feet apart. The third player in the group is the "monkey in the middle". He tries to hit or steal the ball. The two outside players must pass the ball to each other without using cross passes or dribbling.
Simply turning and using feints to open up the passing line and pass the ball past the defender.
Goal:
A fun exercise that works on defense at the same time. This exercise will teach players how to use feints and turns to create a passing zone and also to protect the ball.
Lineup:
• Groups of 3 players.
• Each group has one ball.
• The passers are lined up 12-15 feet apart with the third player (back) in the middle.
Instructions:
1. The drill starts with the defender attacking the player who starts the drill with the ball.
2. The attacker uses feints and steps to pass to another attacker while the defender attempts to parry or intercept the pass.
3. After each pass, the defender rushes towards the ball carrier and tries to press the ball again.
4. When the defender recovers the ball or kicks the ball, the players change positions.
Variations:
Change after a certain time - Players can change positions
after a certain period of time (depending on the age of the players, their strength and stamina), and not after each interception and elimination.
For example, 30-40 seconds.
One dribbling available. Let the attacking players hit the ball once to the floor to open up the passing corner. It will be tougher for the defender.
Only bounce passes allowed - in order to make it more difficult for attackers, allow them to only bounce passes.
Notes:
• It is very important for a defender to have active arms and legs at all times. This is the best way to intercept.
• Passing players must wait for the defender to recover before making the next pass. The purpose of the training is to learn how to pass and create passing angles.
• If there is no set time, the offensive player must not hold the ball for more than 5 seconds without passing the ball.
• No passing in an arc! They make the drill too easy for the attackers and will not lead to improvement.
3. Swing passes
How the exercise works:
The team is divided into 4 groups in the corners on half the court.
The players make a pass to the player on the right, who start running along the sideline towards the endline. The sender then joins the end of the column into which he passed the ball.
Purpose:
A drill intended to be used primarily with young players or as a warm-up. This training will improve passing the ball on the move, as well as improve reception and passing without dribbling.
Lineup:
• The team is divided into 4 groups. One group located in each corner.
• The first player in one of the groups has the ball.
Instructions:
1. The drill is started by ball carrier 02 passing the ball 01 to the player on the right.
2. Before passing the ball, the receiver must start running in the direction of the next group, where he will make the next pass of the ball.
3. 01, having received the ball, passes it to player 05, who starts a dash towards 03.
4. After each pass, the passer joins the end of the group where the ball was passed.
5. The exercise continues according to the same scheme with passes and jerks of the players along the square in the same direction.
6. After a certain period of time, the coach changes the direction of the passes.
Options:
Turn on the second ball. If the players perform confidently, then you can enter the second ball in the opposite corner.
Various types of passes - The drill can be performed with one or two hand passes, bouncing, etc. One Dribbling - Players are allowed to make one dribbling before passing to the next player. This can be useful if you are passing with one hand.
TIPS:
• The receiver does not need to slow down or speed up to catch a transmission. Transfers must be accurate, timely and forward.
• The receiver must initiate the snatch in a timely manner with arms outstretched to assist the passing player in making a timely and accurate pass.
• It is very important that you do not make any mistakes during the exercise.
Don't let them fall into this bad habit.
• Begin the exercise at medium speed at the beginning until the players understand it. Then increase the intensity.
4. Bronze gears.
How the drill works:
Starting at the end line at the edge of the penalty area, pairs of players pass the ball back and forth using different passes as they run across the court to the other end line. When they get there, they move closer to the touchline and come back using various passes over the players in the middle of the court.
Purpose:
An excellent warm-up that provides many passes in a short amount of time. Including passes of various lengths and types for players in training.
Line-up:
• All players find a partner.
• Each pair has one ball.
• Pairs split into two columns behind the endline at the edge of the SR.
Instructions:
• 1.
The first pair move to the opposite side at a slow pace in the middle of the court, passing the ball from the chest to each other.
• 2. As soon as the first pair is closer to the 3-point line, the next pair starts.
• 3. When the first pair of players reach the opposing endline, they move to the touchlines and return, passing the ball over the pairs of players moving in the middle of the court.
• 4. When the players return to their starting position, they rejoin the pairs in the middle of the court and continue continuous training.
• 5. Every couple of minutes, change the type of passes players make for middle pairs and outside pairs.
Options:
Gears for pairs in the middle. For the mid lanes, there are several types of passes that I recommend: from the chest, with a rebound, one-handed from the chest, and one-handed with a rebound.
Outline Passes - For outside lines there are several types of passes that I recommend: chest passes, overhead passes, one hand passes.
Remember to consider your team's age, strength and skill level when deciding which passes they should use during practice.
Tips:
• Follow the pace of the exercise; especially if it is used as one of the warm-up exercises. Walking should not be allowed, but too much traffic should also be avoided. Accurate transmission is the main focus of training.
• Players on the outside lines must not make too many passes in an arc and with a very high trajectory on their passes. They should be at a height that is safe enough not to hit the midlines, but straight enough to reach your partner quickly.
• The ability to pass the ball with either hand is an important skill to develop. Expect mistakes when your players first perform a drill, but make sure you train them properly.
• Footwork is very important during this workout. Players must be able to catch the ball and pass back to their partner in two steps. If you are training young children and they cannot pass the ball at speed yet, slow down the pace of the exercise.
• After each run around the court, the players must switch to the sides so that they practice passing short and long passes from both sides of their body.
5. Netball
How the exercise works:
regular battle without dribbting the ball is allowed at any time. Games can be played 3 on 3, 4 on 4, or 5 on 5.
Target:
An excellent exercise that improves not only passing the ball, but also moving without the ball, positioning, jerking, etc. This exercise will lead to less use of dribbling in games and fewer losses.
Lineup:
• Divide the players into two teams based on the number of players available for training.
• Try to make teams of the same height and skill level.
• Only one ball is needed for training.
Instructions:
1. Teams play normal full game - no dribbling!
2. The exercise is performed within the time specified by the trainer.
3. Start with the arrangement shown in the diagram.
Point system:
• The game is played up to either 5 or 11 points.
• Each 2-point roll is worth 1 point.
• Each 3-point roll is worth 2 points.
• Must win by 2 points.
• In the event of a shooting foul, the offensive player throws one free throw for 1 point.
Variations:
One Shot Allowed - Players are allowed 1 dribbling when they gain possession of the ball. This is not a requirement, just an option.
Only bounce passes allowed - Restrict your players to only use bounce passes.
3 teams. The exercise starts by dividing your team into 3 groups of 3 to 5 players. Two teams start defense in each half. The third team is in the middle of the court on offense. The offensive team chooses one side and tries to score the ball without dribbling. Same scoring system as above. After a goal is scored or the possession of the ball is changed, the defensive team receives the ball, attacks in the opposite direction.
The previous offensive team may play defense up to the center line of the court. Play until one team reaches 5 or 11 points.
Tips:
• It's very important to give players instructions on how to set up wide and run smart to get the ball.
• If you need to step in to make adjustments or re-emphasize the most important points of the exercise (distance, snatches), step in but keep it short.
• All passes must be at least 3 feet long. Don't let the players run up and pass the ball from each other's hands.
• Footwork is important in this exercise. Make sure the players are not running and that they are using turns correctly.
• Players must speak and use raised arms when rushing to the basket to receive the ball.
V. Melnichuk
Use of fitball in basketball lesson | Physical education
Author: Aladina Olga Gennadievna
Red Army
Settlement: Nizhny Novgorod Region, Dzerzhinsk
Contents
- Introduction ………………………….
.......................... ......... 3 - Lesson Plan …………………………………………………. 5
- Conclusions ………………………………………………….. 9
- References …………………………………………... 9
Introduction
Understanding the educational value of physical culture is an important condition for the process of physical education of students and the formation of their skills of independent mastery of the values of physical culture, attitude to a healthy lifestyle, the need for physical activity.
At present, a healthy lifestyle has become a kind of trend that attracts more and more people around the world. Therefore, the number of additional sports paraphernalia is also increasing, adapting to modern trends and allowing you to stay in good physical shape. Among other sports equipment, fitball (Swiss ball) has become very popular. This device, which was originally developed for special health-improving gymnastics, is now used in various sports training for men and women.
Let's take a closer look at what a fitball is, how to approach the issue of choosing the right one, and what is the usefulness of practicing with such a ball.
The concept of "fitball" is familiar to many, however, not everyone knows what it is. For some, this term is associated with the improvement of infants or with children's games, although this large gymnastic ball is actively used in more serious workouts, allowing you to perform useful exercises and keep your body in excellent physical shape.
Initially, the creators of this balloon had a different idea - to help people suffering from health problems. A physiotherapist from Switzerland noted the unique properties of an ordinary ball and in the fifties of the last century developed a fitball, which began to be actively used in rehabilitation programs to correct posture, restore tone and strengthen muscles (including in the postoperative period).
The benefits of training with a fitball were so obvious that soon this ball began to be used in gyms, fitness centers, and at home as a universal projectile.
Currently, there are a huge number of exercises that use the Swiss ball.
Relevance. At present, the socio-economic transformations in the country have also affected the processes of rethinking, revising the concept of development of the national education system. Vocational education in secondary specialized educational institutions is designed to form a specialist who is ready to effectively meet the needs of society and the state. With the stage of reforming the system of vocational education, the requirements for the level of qualification of a specialist also increase. The content of education in secondary specialized educational institutions is determined by the federal state educational standard. It is based on the functional tasks that a graduate should be able to solve, and the competencies that he should acquire in the learning process.
The Federal Target Program "Development of Physical Culture and Sports in the Russian Federation for 2018-2023" provides for the development and implementation of a set of measures to ensure the development of physical culture and mass sports in educational institutions, at the place of residence as an integral part of a healthy lifestyle.
Today in the student environment there is dissatisfaction with the content of academic physical education classes, which negatively affects the level of physical fitness. In this regard, it is relevant to search for effective ways to improve the health of students. Inclusion in the educational process of health-saving, physical-sports and rehabilitation-preventive technologies and methods. Contributing to the familiarization with a healthy lifestyle, accelerating the recovery of working capacity, improving physical and mental health after intense labor, educational and sports activities.
The development of physical culture and sports is associated with a constant increase in its species diversity, the emergence of new types of physical culture and sports activities, the growing popularity of non-traditional systems of physical exercises, updating the list of sports and sports disciplines. Among them, the so-called "health fitness" has received quite wide distribution and recognition in recent years.
Translated from English, “fitness (fitness)” means suitability, conformity. Entered into everyday life of a Russian person at 90-ies of XX century. the word fitness has become by far one of the most frequently used in the context of active motor activity.
Lesson plan
This paper describes the experience of using a fitball in a physical education lesson in the "Sports Games" section on the topic "Techniques for dribbling, passing, throwing the ball in basketball"
Purpose of lesson : Increasing interest in basketball lessons .
Learning tasks :
1) Continue to learn the technique of dribbling, throwing the ball, using non-standard equipment.
2) Assess the technique of passing the ball.
Developmental tasks:
1) Development of special endurance.
2) Development of coordination of movements.
3) Development of arm and leg strength.
Educational tasks :
1) Formation of the desire to achieve the goal.
2) Increasing interest in physical education.
3) Broadening the horizons of students
Type of lesson: training - developing
Methods of conducting: frontal, flow, group, repeated, competitive.
Venue: sports hall.
Equipment: basketballs, chips, fitballs, gym mats, stopwatch, whistle.
Lesson duration - 90 minutes
Introduction - 30 min.
Formation and greeting. Reporting lesson objectives and safety briefing. Organizational and methodical instructions. Pulse control.
Walking exercises:
a) on toes;
b) on the heels;
c) on the outside and inside of the foot;
d) half squat;
e) in a squat position;
Running around the hall :
a) "snake";
b) with direction change;
c) with a change in tempo;
d) running backwards
outdoor switchgear in motion :
I.
P. hands on the belt - head tilt forward - backward - left - right for each step - 4 series;
I.P. right hand up - for each step, change the position of the hands - 8-10 times;
I.P. arms to the side, 1-4-circular movements of the arms inward, 1-4 - outward - 4 series;
I.P. hands in front of the chest in the lock for each step turn in the direction of the walking leg - 16 times;
I.P. walking - leaning forward for each step, touching the foot with your hands -8 times;
I.P. hands forward for each step, swing the leg with a touch of the opposite hand - 10 times;
Rearrangement in 2 columns through the middle of hall
Outdoor switchgear with fitballs
I.P. standing ball down 1-2 ball up, 3-4 ball down;
I.P. standing the ball down 1-2 circle with the ball to the right rise on toes, 3-4 also to the left;
I.P. standing the ball at chest level 1.3 rotation right from above, 3.4 left from above;
I.
P. sitting on the ball. 1-4 head tilt forward-backward-left-right;
I.P. sitting on the ball. 1-4 circular motions back. Also forward;
I.P. sitting on the ball hands to shoulders. 1, 3 turns to the right, 2, 4 turns to the left;
I.P. sitting on the ball hands on the belt 1 tilt to the right, 2 tilt to the right with the arm, 3 -4 also to the left;
I.P. sitting on the ball hands on the belt 1- 4 circular movements of the pelvis;
I.P. sitting on the ball hands on the ball 1-4 steps forward, also back;
I.P. sitting on the ball 1 max right, 2, 4 and. n. 3max left;
I.P. sitting on the ball 1-2 rolls to the right, 3-4 to the left.
I.P. sitting on the ball 1-2 jumps on the ball, 3-4 run around the ball on the right hand on the ball. Also in the other direction
Pulse control.
Main part - 50 minutes
Passing the ball is a technique by which a player directs the ball to a partner to continue the attack.
The ability to correctly and accurately pass the ball is the basis of a clear, purposeful interaction of a basketball player in the game. There are many different ways to pass the ball. They are used depending on a particular situation, the distance to which you need to send the ball, the location or direction of movement of the partner, the nature and methods of countering opponents. When passing, it is important to maintain a balance position, because the direction of the intended transfer may be blocked by the opponent, and the player willy-nilly make a “jog” or the ball will be intercepted.
Passing the ball with two hands from the chest is the main way to quickly and accurately direct the ball to a teammate at close to medium distance in a relatively simple game situation, without close guarding of the opponent.
Overhead two-handed pass: is most often used at medium distance when the opponent is closely guarded. The position of the ball above the head makes it possible to accurately throw it to the opponent through the hands of the defender.
Preparatory phase: the player lifts the ball with slightly bent arms above his head and brings it over his head. Main phase: the player, with a sharp movement of the arms, unbends them in the elbow joints and makes a sweeping movement with the hands, directs the ball to the partner.
Passing the ball with one hand from the shoulder: the most common way to pass the ball at close range. There is minimal swing time and good ball control. Preparatory phase: hands with the ball are taken to the right shoulder (when passing with the right hand, the ball lies on the right hand and is supported by the left hand) so that the elbows do not rise, at the same time the player turns towards the swing. The main phase: the ball on the right arm, which is immediately straightened and at the same time performs a movement with the brush and a turn with the body.
All ball passing options can be practiced:
- in pairs (one player sits on the ball, the other performs passes in motion)
- individually (sitting on the ball, using a bounce from the wall)
- in pairs, using fitballs as weighting agent.-Step-5.jpg/aid43486-v4-728px-Play-21-(Basketball)-Step-5.jpg)
Dribbling is a technique that allows the player to move the ball around the court with a wide range of speeds and in any direction. The dribble allows you to get away from a tight defender, get the ball out from under the shield after a successful fight for the rebound and organize a swift counterattack. The dribbling is carried out by successive soft pushes of the ball with one hand (or alternately with the right and left), down and forward, somewhat away from the feet. The dribbling is characterized by the synchronicity of the alternation of steps and movements of the hand counterattacking with the ball. When working out this technical element, we can use the fitball as a chip that needs to be circled with a basketball. Large balls can be placed around the hall in any sequence and tasks can be changed, taking into account the degree of preparedness of students.
Throws in the basket . Preparation for the execution of the throw is the main content of the team's game in the attack, and getting into the ring is its main goal.
To successfully participate in the competition, each basketball player must not only skillfully use passes, catch and dribbling, but also accurately attack the ring, performing throws from various starting positions, from any distance, with opposition from opponents. The order of exercises is as follows:
1. Stand on the free-throw line and take the starting position.
2. Stand on the free-throw line, hit the ball once or twice into the court and return to the starting position.
3. The same, but before the throw, take a breath and hold your breath at the moment of the throw.
4. Perform the entire throw preparation procedure learned in the first three exercises and perform the throw itself.
5. Perform a series of shots in a row without leaving the free-throw line (5-10 shots, the ball is served by a partner).
6. The same, but the throws are performed in series of two: the first ball is served by the partner, the second is followed by the basketball player himself.
When working out this technical element, we use a fitball:
- as a non-standard starting position (sitting on the ball)
- as a distracting element (the defender holds the ball on outstretched arms)
You can also add competition elements by dividing the students into two commands. At the same time, they start shooting from the penalty line, the team that scores ten hits in the basket wins.
You can fix technical elements in a two-sided game.
Final part - 10 min.
Recovery exercises with fitball.
I.P. lying on your back, ball over you 1-2 stretch up, 3-4 and. P.;
I.P. lying on the back ball over oneself 1-2 ball to the right bent right leg to the left, 3-4 to the other side.
I.P lying on the back legs on the ball 1.3 bend the legs 2.4 unbend p.
I.P. lying on the ball 1, 3 push with feet forward, 2, 3 push with hands back;
I.P. emphasis on the hands of the feet on the ball 1-2 turn to the right side, 3-4 to the left;
I.
P. sitting hands on the ball 1-4 to maintain balance.
Pulse control.
Reflection (what did you like, what did you learn new, what did you experience difficulties)
Homework: repeat the rules of basketball. Summarizing.
Conclusions:
The success of training and its duration are directly dependent on the construction of the learning process. Its basis is the laws of the pedagogical process. Due to the specifics of basketball, didactic principles are embodied in certain conditions of the organization of the educational process and appropriate methods.
Competent implementation of didactic principles not only speeds up the learning process, but makes it more effective and interesting.
Children get satisfaction not from the fact that they have learned to perform this or that movement, but from the learning process itself. Exercises on the balls are more appropriate to use as fragments of the lesson. In general, the use of balls should not exceed 40% of the total duration of the lesson, since it is important to enable students not only to exercise on balls, but also to walk, run, jump, play.
