Setup and Organization

Divide the team into two groups. The first two players of each group step on the floor—one unit on offense, one on defense. The drill starts with a defender holding a ball on the right wing and a second defender positioned as the low man underneath the basket (on the split line). Two offensive players begin on the opposite side: one in the baseline corner and one on the wing. The drill is scored from the defensive side: every stop = 1 point, charges = 2 points. Any foul or offensive rebound resets the defensive score to 0. The defensive unit with the highest score after its segment wins.

Step-by-Step Progression

1. The defender on the right wing initiates by driving baseline toward the rim—he will eventually become a defensive player in the live phase.
2. As the drive occurs, the low man rotates to help and looks to deflect any baseline pass out of the drive.
3. The driver passes to either offensive player (corner or wing) on the opposite side to trigger the scramble.
4. On the catch, the low man (who helped) takes the first closeout to contest the shot or contain the drive, while the original driver filters in as the second defender in help position.
5. From this point forward, the action is live 2-on-2. The defense must communicate, rotate, and finish with a rebound to earn a stop.

Scoring

Every defensive stop = 1 point. Charges taken = 2 points. Any foul or offensive rebound resets the defensive score to 0. The team with the most points in its defensive segment wins.

Coaching Points

Teach proper help angles—low man must rotate early to the midline and contest baseline passes with active hands. Emphasize communication: one calls “Drive! Drive! Drive!” and the other “Help!” or “Rotate!” on recovery. Closeouts should be short, controlled, and under balance. Defenders must finish every stop with two hands on the rebound before points are awarded.

Variations

Run the drill from either side of the floor to practice different help rotations. You can add a third offensive player in the slot to create a 3-on-2 scramble variation or restrict the offense to one dribble per player to focus on rotation timing and communication.