Andrew Pace
The layup is one of the most fundamental moves in basketball, and it is considered the easiest shot to make. It is a great skill to teach beginners, as it is a sure way to score points. In this guide, we will break down the steps to performing a layup, the different types of layups, and how to teach this skill to beginners.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Difficulty level | The layup is considered the easiest shot in basketball and is often the first technique taught to young players. |
| Execution | The layup involves dribbling towards the basket, jumping, and releasing the ball at the backboard. |
| Footwork | The player should step towards the basket with their left foot, then jump off their right foot. |
| Shooting hand | The shooting hand should be placed under the ball, with fingers facing forward. |
| Wrist action | The player should snap their wrist upwards to roll the ball off their fingertips. |
| Body position | The player should land with their shoulders parallel to the backboard. |
| Practice tips | Players should practice the two-contact rule (right-left-jump-backboard shot) and gradually add more dribbling to improve their transition from dribbling to shooting. |
| Variations | There are seven layup variations, including the finger roll, the floater, and the off-foot layup. |
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What You'll Learn
Footwork and jumping off the right foot
Footwork is essential to performing a layup successfully. As you approach the basket, take a step with your left foot and give the ball a final hard dribble just outside your left foot. This is the starting point for your layup footwork.
Jumping off the right foot is the next critical step. As soon as your right foot lands, use it to jump towards the basket. Keep your body moving forward, but avoid bending forward. The ideal position is to be close enough to the basket that you can jump straight up to take your shot. As you jump, bring the ball out of the dribble and position it near your chest to prepare for the shot.
The jump should be straight up, and it is important to land on both feet simultaneously. The landing should be soft, with your shoulders parallel to the backboard. This is not a jump shot, so make sure you jump up and finish high.
Practising the two-contact rule of right-left-jump-backboard shot is a good way to get the footwork and jumping technique right. You can also add a single dribble and then repeat the two-contact rule. As you get more comfortable, add more dribbling to improve your transition from dribbling to shooting.
The layup is a fundamental basketball move that will become second nature with enough practice. Your body will eventually remember what to do without you having to think about which foot to put forward and which one to jump off.
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Using the backboard
Understanding the Backboard Technique
The backboard technique involves players putting their shooting hand under the ball, with fingers facing forward, and then rolling the ball off their fingertips as they extend their arm towards the hoop. This is often called the "finger roll" technique. It is important to note that the backboard technique can be used with or without dribbling.
Footwork and Body Control
Footwork is crucial when teaching layup shots. For right-handed layups, the first step should be with the right foot, and for left-handed layups, it should be with the left foot. Emphasise to players that they should gain distance with this first step. The second step should be with the inside foot (opposite to the starting foot). Players must be in control of their bodies and not rush towards the hoop, as this can result in a missed shot. Encourage them to slow down and focus on gaining control before jumping.
Aiming for the Backboard
When shooting a layup, players should aim for the backboard instead of trying to tip the ball over the rim. The specific target area on the backboard is the top corner of the square, slightly to the left or right, depending on which hand is used. This area provides more room for error, and the backboard helps absorb the ball's impact, increasing the chances of a successful shot.
Practising the Technique
Start by teaching players the correct footwork and body control. Then, have them practise aiming for the backboard without a ball. Once they are comfortable, introduce dribbling and shooting with the ball. It is important to emphasise practising with both the dominant and non-dominant hands to develop ambidextrous skills.
Variations
Once players have mastered the basic backboard layup, introduce variations such as the zero-step layup, the jump-stop layup, or the off-foot layup. Each variation will help players develop different skills and adapt to different game situations.
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Protecting the ball
Hand and Arm Placement
Instruct players to keep the ball close to their body, pinning it against their chest with one or both arms. This makes it harder for defenders to reach in and strip the ball. Encourage them to use their non-shooting hand to protect the ball, especially when facing tall defenders who might block the shot during the upward shooting motion.
Body Positioning
Teach players to use their body to shield the ball from defenders. They can position their body between the defender and the ball, making it more challenging for the defender to reach in for a steal. This is particularly effective when driving to the basket and creating separation from the defender.
Ball Control
Emphasize the importance of strong hands and a firm grip on the ball. Players should practice dribbling and maintaining control as they approach the basket. Encourage them to vary their techniques, such as using a combination of dribbling and ball fakes, to keep defenders guessing and off-balance.
Off-Hand Layup
Introduce the concept of an off-hand layup, where players shoot with the hand opposite to the side of the hoop they are on. This technique can throw off the defender's timing and allow for a quicker release. It also helps develop ambidextrous shooting ability, making players less predictable.
Practicing with Obstacles
To improve ball protection and control, set up drills with obstacles. For example, have players practice layups while a partner tries to disrupt them with pool noodles or similar objects. This helps simulate the presence of defenders and improves their ability to protect the ball under pressure.
By incorporating these techniques into their game, players will become more skilled at protecting the ball during layups, leading to more successful shot attempts and a reduced likelihood of turnovers.
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Finishing with one hand
When finishing with one hand, the player should aim to shoot with their left hand on the left side of the hoop, jumping off their right foot. This is known as a regular reverse layup. If shooting with the right hand on the left side of the hoop, the player should jump off their left foot—this is called a goofy reverse layup.
The player should aim for the backboard instead of trying to tip the ball over the rim. The backboard allows more room for error, and the ball will bounce right out if the rim is hit awkwardly. For a left-handed layup, the ball should tap the backboard slightly to the left of the centre. This will help to sink the shot every time, as the backboard absorbs the impact and guides the ball through the net.
To execute the shot, the player should step toward the basket with their left foot, then give the ball a hard dribble to the outside of the same foot. As the right foot lands, jump in the direction of the basket, keeping the body upright. The player should be close enough to the basket to jump straight up and shoot. As they jump, the ball should be brought up to chest height in preparation for the shot. The player should then shoot with their left arm, lifting their left leg as they do so.
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Practising with the non-dominant hand
Practising layups with the non-dominant hand is an important aspect of basketball training. It can be challenging to learn, but it is a rewarding skill that will improve your overall game. The non-dominant hand is often overlooked in sports training, but it has many benefits and can be used to perform tasks that the dominant hand cannot.
To begin practising layups with the non-dominant hand, it is important to first understand the basic steps of a layup. This includes approaching the basket, performing the layup footwork, jumping, and shooting. These steps can be practised on both sides of the hoop, allowing players to develop a feel for using their non-dominant hand.
When practising with the non-dominant hand, it is crucial to focus on training the gait and timing. This involves coordinating the movement of the non-dominant hand with the opposite foot. For example, if shooting with the left hand on the left side of the hoop, players should jump off their right foot and vice versa. This is known as a regular reverse layup. By visualising a string connecting the elbow and knee on the same side, players can improve their timing and form.
Additionally, players can incorporate drills and exercises specifically designed for the non-dominant hand. One popular exercise is the mirror box drill, where an object is moved back and forth between the dominant and non-dominant hands in front of a mirror. This helps with coordination and spatial awareness. Another exercise is the split pushup, where each arm works opposite the other, helping to strengthen both arms evenly and improve balance.
By incorporating these practices into their training routine, players can develop their non-dominant hand skills and become more versatile and confident on the court. It is important to remember that learning to use the non-dominant hand takes time and patience, but it will ultimately enhance their basketball abilities.
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Frequently asked questions
A layup is a fundamental basketball move where a player drives at the opponent's basket, jumps close to the basket and releases the ball at the backboard. It is considered the easiest shot in basketball because it is taken very close to the basket.
Here are the steps to perform a layup:
- Stand 45 degrees from the backboard and practice your accuracy.
- Practice the two-contact rule: right-left-jump-backboard shot.
- Add in a single dribble and repeat the two-contact rule.
- Add more dribbles to feel comfortable transitioning from dribbling to shooting.
- Practice with your weaker hand.
Here are some tips to teach the layup shot:
- Teach the traditional layup first. It is similar to a regular jump shot where the player gets their hand under the ball and shoots it off the backboard.
- Teach players to protect the ball while attempting the layup. They should have strong hands and keep the ball close to their body.
- Teach them to use their non-shooting hand to protect the ball from defenders.
- Teach them to jump off one foot and land on two.
- Teach them to finish with both hands on both sides of the hoop.
Some variations of the layup shot include the finger roll, the floater, the off-foot layup, the jump stop layup, and the reverse layup.
Players can practice the layup shot by doing drills and repeating the steps mentioned above. They should also include layups as part of every basketball practice. With enough practice, the layup will become second nature.
