Setup and Organization

This drill is run individually or in pairs at multiple baskets. Each pair has one player under the rim with a ball and the other positioned outside the paint. The shooter cuts actively to a spot, showing target hands, while the passer delivers the ball and then sprints into a live closeout. The shooter must make a quick decision to take the catch-and-shoot or use a shot fake into a one-dribble pull-up. Roles switch after every shot, keeping the drill continuous and competitive.

Step-by-Step Progression

1. The shooter cuts with active feet and hands ready for the pass. 2. The passer feeds the ball and immediately runs a closeout. 3. The shooter decides between catch-and-shoot or shot fake into one-dribble pull-up if the closeout is too tight. 4. The shooter rebounds their own shot. The passer who closed out now becomes the shooter, and the rotation continues. 5. The drill runs continuously until a score target (e.g., 21) is reached.

Scoring

A made three-point shot is worth three points, a mid-range jumper is worth two points, and a clean rebound and put-back without the ball touching the floor is worth one point. Any miss where the ball hits the floor results in minus one point. The game is usually played to 21, creating urgency and competitive pressure between partners.

Coaching Points

Emphasize proper footwork and balance on the catch, aggressive and realistic closeouts, and strong decision-making with the shot fake. Players should show active hands on the cut, prepare their shot early, and communicate throughout the drill. Closeouts must be fast and under control to replicate game pressure, and shooters must respond with confident, decisive actions.

Variations

Coaches can restrict shooting zones (e.g., only mid-range or only three-pointers) or allow players to choose freely. You can also increase difficulty by demanding two-dribble pull-ups, step-backs, or limiting the number of consecutive threes. For larger groups, run this as a team competition across multiple baskets, with the first pair to 21 winning.