3-on-0 Flow Entries is a teaching and warm-up drill used to rehearse our core offensive flow entries. It builds on earlier breakdown drills like Cut and Fill, Penetrate and Kick, and DHO progressions. The drill emphasizes timing, spacing, and running different options out of our flow offense without overcomplicating the reads. Its purpose is to teach players how to recognize and execute multiple options from a single entry, and ultimately to be able to flow into offense without a coach’s call. It is one of our staple drills throughout the season, run at least every other practice.

Setup & Organization

Three lines start at half-court: a ball handler on the right side of the jump circle, a wing player on the right sideline, and a trailing big in the middle. All players sprint into their spots to simulate transition spacing. The coach calls out the entry before the group begins, such as “pistol” or “21.” Each entry is run repeatedly for several reps, with each rep concluding in a shot. Players rotate through all positions to gain full understanding of every role in the action.

Step-by-Step Progression

The ball handler brings the ball into the slot while the wing sprints wide and the big trails to the top of the key. The coach calls the entry, and the group executes it—examples include drag, 21, pistol, or ghost. Each option must finish with a different scoring action before the group moves to the next entry. After every catch, the ball carrier must look to attack decisively, and spacing principles must be maintained at all times.

The drill continues in sequence, with multiple groups executing each entry six times, each rep finishing with a different shot outcome. Over time, the drill should progress from coach-called entries to players reading each other and flowing naturally into the appropriate action.

Scoring

Standard scoring applies: three points for made threes, two points for midrange or pull-ups, no shots in the paint allowed. Missed shots deduct three points from the team total. The goal is to reach 30 points within six to eight minutes, depending on skill level.

Coaching Points

Reinforce spacing at least two steps beyond the three-point line. Demand sharp, on-time passing and clear communication. Players must attack with intent and take the first great shot instead of overpassing. Stress the importance of all players knowing each position within the entry, not just their usual role.

Variations

Progress from half-court reps to full-court runs, where a unit executes an entry at one end, then sprints back and runs another entry at the other end. Allow players to choose the entry instead of the coach, then finally remove calls altogether so the team learns to read and flow naturally. Add defenders later to test recognition and decision-making under pressure.