Setup and Organization

The drill is set up with a coach on the baseline holding a basketball, a single defender starting underneath the rim with his back to the basket, and two offensive players positioned on each wing at foul-line extended outside the three-point line. The defender does not know which side the ball will be passed to, forcing immediate recognition and reaction. The drill is live and continuous, with all offensive players operating under a two-dribble limit.

Step-by-Step Progression

The drill begins when the coach passes the ball to either wing. The defender must immediately recognize the ball side and sprint into a live closeout. The ball handler is allowed two dribbles to attack, attempting to reach the paint. The defender’s objective is to contain the drive, force a change of direction, and deny any paint touch. If the offensive player uses two dribbles without entering the paint, he must pick up the ball and pass to the opposite wing, then re-space outside the three-point line.

On the pass, the defender must attempt to deflect the ball first, then close out on air time to the second offensive player. The same two-dribble containment applies on the second drive. If the defender again denies a paint touch, the ball is kicked back to the original offensive player for a catch-and-shoot opportunity. The defender must contest the shot and complete the possession with a box-out and rebound, creating a live one-on-one rebounding situation.

Scoring

This is an individually scored defensive drill. Denying the first paint touch is worth one point. Denying the second paint touch is worth one point. Forcing a missed shot and securing the defensive rebound is worth one point. A defender can score a maximum of three points in one sequence. Any paint touch, made basket, or foul ends the defender’s turn immediately. A defender who scores all three points earns the right to remain on defense.

Coaching Points

Emphasize recognition, urgency, and discipline on every closeout. Defenders must stay low, use active hands, and prioritize containment over steals. The goal is not to stop the ball once, but to repeatedly absorb pressure without fouling or allowing penetration. Offensively, stress downhill attacks, efficient footwork, strong passes, and immediate re-spacing after drives.

Variations

You can remove the final catch-and-shoot and make the drill drive-only for younger groups. You can also limit offensive finishes to one specific hand, or require the defender to force baseline or middle. For advanced groups, add a shot clock to increase urgency or reward charges with bonus points.