Setup and Organization

This one-on-one live drill works on closing out in space, contesting shots, and rebounding. Set up with an offensive player holding the ball just inside the jump circle, facing the basket, and a defensive player positioned at the foul line. On the coach’s signal, the offensive player attacks toward the foul line, while the defender must turn, sprint to the baseline, touch, and recover to contest the play. The timing forces the defender to arrive as the offensive player reaches shooting or attack position. The drill can be run simultaneously on both ends of the floor to increase reps.

Step-by-Step Progression

1. Coach signals to start; the offensive player drives toward the foul line with the ball.
2. The defender turns, sprints to the baseline, touches it, and then closes out hard to the offensive player.
3. If the offensive player has space, he takes a jump shot from the foul line. The defender contests and boxes out for a live rebounding battle.
4. If the defender takes away the shot, play continues one-on-one from the top of the key with a two-dribble limit.
5. The possession ends with a made basket, defensive rebound, or stop, and the next player rotates in.

Scoring

Each defensive stop (contest, rebound, or forced miss) = 1 point. The defender stays on for the next rep after a stop. If the offensive player scores, he becomes the next defender. Track consecutive stops for competition. You can run this on both ends for efficiency and to create energy in practice.

Coaching Points

Focus on sprinting out of the baseline touch with urgency, chopping feet to arrive under control, and contesting without fouling. Emphasize high-hand closeouts, body balance, and immediate rebounding position after the shot. Offensively, stress attacking decisively and reading the defender’s recovery angle. This is a high-intensity, physical drill—use it to build defensive mindset and effort standards.

Variations

Add a scoring limit (e.g., play to 5 or 7 points) or time limit (e.g., 4-minute rounds). Adjust the starting distance or add a “no-dribble jumper only” rule for specific emphasis. For advanced players, add a second rebounder to simulate live box-out contests or loose-ball recovery situations.