Ayrton Oneill
Basketball is a game of skill and strategy, and players are always looking for new moves to outplay their opponents and gain access to the basket. While some players believe that complex moves are the key to success, others argue that perfecting the basics is more important. In this article, we will explore various basketball moves, from fundamental dribbles to advanced tricks, and provide step-by-step instructions on how to execute them effectively. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned player, learning and practising these moves can help you improve your game and become a more versatile player on the court.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Crossover dribble | A fundamental move used to change direction quickly, throwing the defender off balance. |
| Through-the-legs | Similar to the crossover, but the ball is passed between the legs, protecting it from the defender and keeping it further away from the defense. |
| Behind-the-back dribble | Allows players to switch the ball from one hand to the other while protecting it with their body. |
| Euro-step | Getting the defender moving one way and then quickly stepping back in the opposite direction to create space. |
| Bank shot | Bouncing the ball off the backboard into the basket. |
| Fadeaway | A jump shot taken while jumping backward to create space from the defender. |
| Pull-up jumper | An offensive move where the player dribbles and then pulls up to shoot. |
| Layup | A two-point attempt made by leaping from the ground and releasing the ball with one hand near the basket. |
| Spin move | Planting the inside foot and reverse-pivoting around a defender while dragging the basketball. |
| Hesitation dribble | Dribbling with speed, slowing down, and then accelerating past the defender. |
| In-and-out dribble | Tricking the defender into thinking a regular crossover is about to be performed. |
| Over-the-head move | Rotating the ball over the head to prevent it from getting stolen while trying to get past the defender. |
| Jab step | Getting the defender out of their defensive stance to create space. |
| Pump fake | Feigning a jump shot to cause the defender to shift off-balance. |
| Drop step | Used to score or reposition the hips. |
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What You'll Learn
- The crossover dribble: shift weight to dominant hand, dribble, switch hands
- The through-the-legs move: bounce ball between legs, switch hands
- The spin move: plant inside foot, pivot, protect ball with body
- The bank shot: bounce ball off backboard, shoot at an angle
- The fadeaway: jump backward, shoot, create space from defender
The crossover dribble: shift weight to dominant hand, dribble, switch hands
The crossover dribble is a fundamental basketball move used to change direction quickly and throw the defender off balance. It is a favourite move of many basketball players, including Allen Iverson, who perfected the crossover by putting extra emphasis on the setup.
To perform the crossover dribble, follow these steps:
Shift Weight to Dominant Hand
- Begin dribbling with your dominant hand.
- As you approach the defender, shift your weight slightly towards your dominant hand to sell the fake.
- Step and lean towards your dominant side, focusing on the defender's midsection.
- Stay low and wide, with your eyes on the defender and the court, scanning for opportunities.
Dribble
- Hesitate, then dribble the ball across your body to your other hand.
- Bounce the ball between your legs, switching hands in the process.
- Keep the dribble low and quick so that the defender cannot steal the ball.
Switch Hands
- Once the ball is in your other hand, change direction and accelerate past the defender.
- Use the momentum to drive towards the basket or create a shot opportunity for a teammate.
The crossover dribble is a simple yet effective move that can be practised and developed to suit your playing style. It is a great way to create space and throw off defenders, but be careful not to lose your balance or control of the ball.
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The through-the-legs move: bounce ball between legs, switch hands
The through-the-legs move is a great way to dribble a basketball and keep possession of the ball away from defenders. This move is also known as the between-the-legs dribble and is a type of crossover dribble.
To begin, stand with your feet about shoulder-width apart, holding the basketball. Bend your knees while keeping your back straight. Crouch down low by bending your knees and lowering your hips. Lean forward slightly on the balls of your feet, keeping your head and chest pointed straight ahead.
Use the pads of your fingers on your dominant hand to bounce the ball in front of you at knee height. Take a diagonal step forward with your opposite foot, moving it about 45 degrees away from your body. Keep your dominant side stable with your foot planted on the ground. As you do this, shift your hand to the side of the ball so that only your thumb is on top. Use your hand to push the ball between your open legs, allowing it to bounce underneath you and come up behind you.
Move your opposite hand behind you to receive the ball as it emerges. Get your hand down close to your legs to control the ball as soon as it arrives, letting it hit your fingertips. As the ball travels, lower your front hand to protect it.
Practice this move to perfect your technique and impress your teammates and opponents!
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The spin move: plant inside foot, pivot, protect ball with body
The spin move is a great way to trick your opponent and create space to score points. To perform the spin move, follow these steps:
Firstly, get into a stable position with both feet on the ground. This can be done with a "1-2" step, where each foot hits the floor at a slightly different time, similar to a jump-stop. This will help you maintain control of the ball.
Next, plant your inside foot and pivot, turning your body while keeping the planted foot in place. This is the key to executing a smooth spin move. It's important to keep your balance and protect the ball with your body during this step. Make sure your hand stays on top of the basketball to avoid a carrying violation.
You can add a behind-the-back dribble after the spin to further deceive your defender and create more space. This involves pulling the ball back towards your body and switching it to the opposite hand, all while keeping the ball close to your body.
Practice is key to mastering the spin move. Focus on building your ball-handling strength and muscle memory so that you can execute the move smoothly and efficiently during a game. Remember, the spin move is not just about spinning; it's about creating space and maintaining control of the ball to open up scoring opportunities.
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The bank shot: bounce ball off backboard, shoot at an angle
The bank shot is one of the most challenging moves to master in basketball, but it can be the difference between a thrilling victory and a bitter defeat. It is a highly effective shot, favoured by the likes of NBA legends Tim Duncan, Russell Westbrook, and Dwyane Wade.
To perform a bank shot, an offensive player shoots the basketball so that it bounces off the backboard and into the basket at an angle. This technique is particularly useful for mid-to-short-range jump shots, taking advantage of the small rectangle above the rim on the backboard. The aim is to create the perfect angle to get the ball into the hoop.
To master the bank shot, it is important to practice different angles and distances. Start by positioning yourself at an angle to the basket and aiming for the upper corner of the square on the backboard. Use a gentle touch to bounce the ball off the backboard. You can practice this drill on both sides of the half-court, starting on either the left or right side.
As you become more comfortable with the shot, you can add a one-dribble pull-up. This involves starting a step or two away from the low post block, taking one dribble forward, and then shooting a bank shot. To make the drill more challenging, you can add a timer or try to consistently make five to ten shots in a row.
Research has shown that the bank shot can be up to 20% more effective than a direct shot from certain areas of the court, particularly within 12 feet of the basket and from the wing areas. So, if you can master the bank shot, you'll be well on your way to becoming a valuable asset to your team.
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The fadeaway: jump backward, shoot, create space from defender
The fadeaway is a challenging basketball move that requires more strength and accuracy than a regular jump shot. It is a jump shot taken while jumping backward, away from the basket, to create space between the shooter and the defender, making the shot harder to block.
- Position yourself with your back to the basket.
- Turn your body so that both shoulders are in line with the basket. It doesn't matter which shoulder is closest to the basket, but standing sideways helps prevent defenders from stealing the ball.
- Drop the shoulder closest to the basket to fake a drive toward the basket.
- Take one full step backward, squaring your shoulders to the basket.
- Jump backward while shooting, releasing the ball at the peak of your jump.
- Snap your wrist toward the basket as you shoot to help propel the ball.
It is important to focus on maintaining balance and shooting with a high arc when performing the fadeaway. This move can be challenging to master due to the increased strength and accuracy required, but it is an effective way to create space from defenders and increase the difficulty for them to block your shot.
Some notable NBA players who have successfully used the fadeaway include Wilt Chamberlain, Kevin McHale, Michael Jordan, Kobe Bryant, and Dirk Nowitzki, who used a unique one-legged version.
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Frequently asked questions
Start by dribbling with your dominant hand. As you approach a defender, fake a move in one direction by shifting your weight to your dominant hand side. Then, bounce the ball between your legs, switching hands in the process. Use the momentum to drive past the defender.
This move is similar to the crossover dribble. Start by dribbling with your dominant hand. As you approach a defender, fake a move in one direction. Then, bounce the ball between your legs, switching hands in the process. The front leg makes it difficult for the opponent to reach in and ensures the ball is further away from the defence.
Start by dribbling with your dominant hand. Fake a move in one direction, then bring the ball around your back to the opposite hand. Quickly change direction and accelerate past the defender. Keep the ball close to your body and use your hips to guide the movement.
Plant your inside foot and reverse-pivot around a defender while dragging the basketball with you, protecting it with your body. Keep your hand on top of the basketball—if it slips under, you may get stopped for a carrying violation.
Position yourself at an angle to the basket. Aim for the upper corner of the square on the backboard and gently shoot the ball off the backboard so it bounces into the basket. Practice different angles and distances to master this shot.
