3-on-3 Help, Stunt, Recover is an elementary defensive drill that works on perimeter positioning, closeouts, and recovery. The goal is to build habits for on-ball defense and proper help-side locations in a guided, controlled environment.

Setup and Organization:
Divide the team into two groups. The offensive unit lines up at half-court while the defensive unit is stacked on the baseline. The first three players from each side step onto the floor. Offense sets up with one player at the point guard slot and two on the wings. The defense begins in a vertical stack in the paint. A coach with a ball is positioned on the baseline to initiate play.

Step-by-Step Progression:
The coach passes to one of the offensive players. The defense must recognize the receiver and sprint into their proper positions. The on-ball defender closes out with DOC principles, while the closest help defender drops to the elbow and the third defender adjusts accordingly. If the ball is centered, both help defenders position at the elbows. If it is on a wing, one sits at the elbow and the other drops into the paint, one step off the line. Offense is frozen, using only jab steps, shot fakes, or pass fakes before making perimeter or skip passes. In early stages, the coach controls passing on the whistle to allow teaching moments. Progressions include free passing speed by the offense, and finally allowing each offensive player one dribble to challenge ball defense and recovery on penetration.

Coaching Points:
Emphasize urgency on the closeout, communication, and being in proper stance. Defenders must understand both their immediate on-ball responsibility and their role in providing help or covering the second line of defense. Reinforce “ball-you-man” positioning and quick recovery with each pass.

Variations:
Begin with very structured passes to ensure proper positioning, then progress to quicker ball movement. Add live dribble penetrations as a final layer to test the defense’s ability to guard and recover. Coaches can also vary the starting point of the ball to force different recognition and rotations.