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Layups are a fundamental scoring technique in basketball, with 90% of points scored in youth basketball coming from layups. They are a high-percentage shot that can be made by leaping from below, laying the ball up near the basket, and using one hand to bounce it off the backboard and into the basket. Layups are worth two points and are a crucial skill for young players to learn as they lack the strength to make outside shots consistently.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Points | 1 or 2 |
| Difficulty level | Easy |
| Execution | Leap from below, lay the ball up near the basket, and use one hand to bounce it off the backboard and into the basket |
| Techniques | Overhand, finger roll, power move, reverse, inside hand finish |
| Coaching points | Emphasize the use of the "outside" foot first, followed by the "inside" foot |
| For beginners | Start with a single dribble and practice the standing throw |
| For young players | Layups are crucial as they often lack the strength for outside shots |
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What You'll Learn
Layups are worth 2 points
The layup is a high-percentage shot that is easier to make than a slam dunk. It is a basic scoring play and one of the most effective and common ways to score in basketball. Layups are also a great way to score when there are no defenders or only one defender in front of you. This is because you can get your shot away without jumping very high, reducing the risk of an opponent grabbing your arm or deflecting the ball.
There are several types of layup, including the finger roll, the overhand, and the reverse layup. The finger roll is one of the most difficult shots in basketball, requiring a lot of rotation in the wrist and forearm to guide the ball through the basket. The overhand layup, or flip layup, is where the ball is taken above the head and flipped into the rim. The reverse layup is taken by jumping and laying the ball off the backboard.
To perform a layup, the player should first take a step with their outside foot (the right foot for a right-handed layup, and the left foot for a left-handed layup). The second step should be taken with the inside foot. The player should then take one dribble before taking their final two steps and finishing with a layup.
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They are one of the easiest ways to score
Layups are one of the easiest ways to score in basketball. They are a fundamental offensive move that can be performed by beginners and professionals alike. The layup is a high-percentage shot that is easier to make than a slam dunk. It is performed by leaping from below, laying the ball up near the basket, and using one hand to bounce it off the backboard and into the basket. The motion and one-handed reach distinguish it from a jump shot.
There are several techniques for performing a layup. The original and simplest version is suitable for children and beginners. The ball is thrown from the hand onto the backboard. This variation is called the finger roll and is suited for experienced players. It requires more rotation in the wrist and forearm to guide the ball through the basket. Another technique is the overhand layup, where the ball is taken above the head and flipped into the rim. The power move is similar, except both legs are used for jumping.
The first step in performing a layup is taken with the "outside" foot (the foot closest to the sideline). For right-handed layups, this is the right foot, and for left-handed layups, it is the left foot. The second step is taken with the "inside" foot (closest to the middle of the court). For right-handed layups, this is the left foot. It is important to emphasize body control when performing a layup. Players should be encouraged to slow down to increase their chances of scoring.
Layups are a crucial skill for young players to learn because they lack the strength to make outside shots consistently. In youth basketball, 90% of points scored come from layups. Learning the different variations and techniques of layups can help players improve their scoring abilities and give them an advantage in the game.
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How to perform a layup
A layup is considered the easiest shot in basketball, but it is crucial for young players to learn how to perform them. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to do a layup:
Step 1: Footwork
The first step is crucial in gaining momentum and control. For right-handed layups, start with your right foot (known as the "outside" foot") and take a long step. For left-handed layups, start with your left foot. The second step should be taken with the "inside" foot, which is the foot closest to the middle of the court. This will be the left foot for right-handed layups and vice versa.
Step 2: Dribbling
Get close to the basket, but not so close that you're directly under it. Dribble with your left hand and approach the left side of the basket. Give the ball one final hard dribble just outside your left foot.
Step 3: Jumping
Jump off your right foot towards the basket. Don't bend forward, and try to position your body so you can jump straight up to take your shot.
Step 4: Shooting
As you jump, bring the ball close to your chest to prepare for the shot. Shoot with your left arm as you lift your left leg. Imagine a string attached to your arm and leg to help guide the movement.
Step 5: Variations
Once you've mastered the basic layup, you can try variations like the finger roll layup, reverse layup, or power layup. Each of these requires different techniques, such as using more rotation in your wrist and forearm or performing a 2-foot jump stop before shooting.
Remember, practice is key. The more you practice, the more your muscles will remember the movement, and it will become second nature. Work on your layups in different situations, such as when being defended or off of a long pass.
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Types of layups
The layup is one of the most important skills in basketball, and players should learn a variety of techniques to keep defenders guessing. Here are some of the most common types of layups:
Overhand Layup
This is the most basic form of layup and is usually the first one taught to beginners. It involves building momentum by running up close to the basketball hoop and releasing the ball from above into the hoop.
Underhand Layup
This technique is best used when attacking at a quick pace and is performed by grabbing the ball from below and releasing it gently as you stand beneath the rim. This type of layup is useful when you can't slow down to shoot from a more favourable angle.
Power Layup
The power layup is a useful technique when playing against tall or strong defenders. It involves building momentum by running close to the net and then jumping off both legs to make the shot. This type of layup can be used to initiate contact and create space from the defender.
Reverse Layup
The reverse layup is a great way to confuse defenders, as it involves finishing the layup on the opposite side from the direction of your approach. This technique can be used to create space from the defender and protect your shot by using the basket itself as a shield.
Inside-Foot Layup
This type of layup is used when a defender is between you and the basket. You jump off your inside foot and finish the shot with your outside hand, using your body as a shield to protect the ball.
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Layups in youth basketball
Layups are an essential skill for young basketball players to learn. As they may lack the strength to make outside shots consistently, layups can be a reliable way to score points, accounting for about 90% of points scored in youth basketball.
To perform a layup, a player must catch the ball in the air while running and jumping towards the basket. The ball is then laid up near the basket and bounced off the backboard and into the basket using one hand. The motion and one-handed reach distinguish a layup from a jump shot.
There are several types of layups, including the overhand or flip layup, where the ball is taken above the head and flipped into the rim, and the finger roll layup, where the player rolls their hand over the ball to guide it into the hoop. The latter is considered one of the most difficult shots due to the increased rotation required in the wrist and forearm.
When teaching layups to young players, coaches should emphasize the importance of body control. Young players often tend to sprint out of control towards the hoop, which can lead to missed shots. By slowing down and using a long first step, players can gain better control and increase their chances of scoring. Additionally, players should be taught the proper footwork, with the first step taken by the "outside" foot (right foot for right-handed layups and left foot for left-handed layups) and the second step taken by the "inside" foot.
To improve their layup skills, players can practice various finishing drills, such as the half-court 2-on-1 drill. Competitive drills that incorporate defenders can also help simulate game situations and improve a player's ability to finish shots.
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Frequently asked questions
A layup is worth two points.
Yes, a two-point basket can be scored with a jump shot or a dunk.
A layup is a high-percentage shot that is easier to make than a slam dunk. It is made by leaping from below, laying the ball up near the basket, and using one hand to bounce it off the backboard and into the basket.
The term "layup" comes from laying the ball up near the basket before bouncing it off the backboard.
Yes, since young players often lack the strength to make outside shots, about 90% of points scored in youth basketball are from layups.
