Drill Library
Man in the Middle
Players work in groups to practice defensive techniques by closing out, mirroring the ball, and executing proper passing methods while emphasizing the need for strong, controlled movements to avoid penalties and enhance overall gameplay.
Video Demo
(2 minutes)
pivot
defense
close out
passing
beginner
intermediate
Michigan State
The "Michigan State" transition drill, inspired by Tom Izzo, involves progressively escalating game situations to enhance quick offensive decision-making and defensive skills, starting with a free throw and moving through various player advantages, culminating in five-on-five play.
Video Demo
(3 minutes)
transition drill
intermediate
No Paint Drill
A competitive drill where defensive players aim to prevent offensive players from entering the paint, earning points for staying outside while reinforcing the importance of effective defensive positioning and teamwork to limit scoring opportunities.
Video Demo
(4 minutes)
defense
beginner
intermediate
Passing and Layup
Teams aim to make 24 layups in two minutes, focusing on different types of passes and creating urgency to improve passing accuracy and finishing skills.
Video Demo
(5 minutes)
passing
layups
intermediate
Press Breaker
A chaotic drill where an offense of five players faces eight defenders to build skills in handling traps and pressure, emphasizing the importance of off-ball movement and purposeful dribbling to effectively break the press.
Video Demo
(3 minutes)
dribble
intermediate
Ray Allen Drill
Players start at varying distances from the basket and aim to make a series of shots, advancing back four feet for each successful shot while returning to the starting position after a miss, with a focus on maintaining good shooting technique and preparing their feet before receiving the ball.
Video Demo
(4 minutes)
shooting
beginner
intermediate
Shell Drill
A defensive drill that focuses on positional awareness, communication, and help defense as players practice rotations and closing out on shooters in a structured manner to enhance their overall defensive effectiveness.
Video Demo
(4 minutes)
defense
beginner
intermediate
Shell Drill with Down Screens
An interactive defensive exercise where players learn to navigate down screens while maintaining communication and proper positioning to effectively guard against various offensive plays.
Video Demo
(2 minutes)
defense
beginner
intermediate
Shell Rebounding
This drill involves players moving and communicating on defense, focusing on blocking out and securing rebounds after shots are taken.
Video Demo
(2 minutes)
rebounding
beginner
intermediate
Shell Skeleton Rotation Drill
Players learn to maintain proper defensive positioning and communication as they practice rotations in response to offensive movements, emphasizing quick footwork, closing out effectively, and understanding help-side principles.
Video Demo
(3 minutes)
defense
beginner
intermediate
Spartan Rebounding
Focuses on players making contact while competing for rebounds, enhancing their skills and physicality around the basket.
Video Demo
(5 minutes)
rebounding
beginner
intermediate
Spin Out Shooting
Players practice their shooting technique by spinning the ball out, taking shots from various spots while focusing on footwork, sticking the landing, and maintaining rhythm to ensure effective shot preparation and execution.
Video Demo
(5 minutes)
shooting
beginner
intermediate
The Offense Cannot Dribble
A drill where offensive players are pressured by a defense that is preventing dribbling, requiring them to focus on movement, cutting, and making quick passes to effectively operate under pressure.
Video Demo
(3 minutes)
passing
intermediate
Whistle Drill
A defensive exercise where players focus on communication and movement, responding to a coach's whistle to quickly adjust positions and maintain effective defensive coverage against offensive plays.
Video Demo
(1 minute)
defense
beginner
intermediate