Setup and Organization

The coach stands on the baseline with a basketball and two offensive players are positioned at the elbows. One defender starts at the top of the key while the second defender begins underneath the basket on the baseline. The coach passes to either offensive player to start the drill. The two offensive players immediately attack, creating a temporary 2-on-1 situation until the trailing defender recovers from a three- to four-step disadvantage. The drill is typically run for eight minutes, with teams switching roles after four minutes.

Step-by-Step Progression

The offensive players must spread wide and attack decisively off the dribble, looking to score within one pass or less. The first defender’s job is to contain the drive, stunt without overcommitting, and protect the paint long enough for the second defender to sprint back and even the numbers. Once the trailing defender arrives, the action flows into a full 2-on-2. As a progression, the drill can be expanded by adding players to create 3-on-2, 3-on-3, and eventually 4-on-4 situations. Coaches may also add a stationary obstacle in the paint to impede the recovering defender and increase toughness.

Coaching Points

Offensively, emphasize attacking quickly and finishing through contact, not overpassing. Defensively, stress urgency in recovery, active communication, and disciplined help without fouling. The first defender must buy time with active hands and positioning, while the second defender must sprint back relentlessly. Proper stunting, walling up, and timing the recovery are the keys to getting stops.

Variations

Progress to higher-numbered situations (3-on-2, 4-on-3, etc.) or add creative challenges such as delaying or obstructing the recovering defender. You can also increase competitiveness by turning the drill into continuous down-and-back possessions.