Kristian Ferrell
Layups are an essential skill for youth basketball players to learn, as they account for 90% of points scored in youth basketball games. However, teaching young girls how to do a layup can be challenging, as it requires understanding footwork, ball pickup, distance, and more. This paragraph will discuss the steps and techniques for teaching youth girls how to execute a successful layup in basketball. It will cover the fundamentals, common mistakes to avoid, and drills to improve their layup technique. By the end, coaches and instructors should have the tools they need to effectively teach this crucial skill.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Teaching technique | Start with the basics, then progress to more advanced techniques. |
| Drills | Use layup technique drills and play half-court 2-on-1. |
| Common mistakes | Rushing, committing travelling violations, jumping off the wrong foot. |
| Speed | Encourage players to slow down and use a long first step to gain control. |
| Control | Teach players to step in front of the defender to create space. |
| Shooting technique | Teach shooting form instead of the traditional two-hand chest shot. |
| Practice frequency | Spend 10-15 minutes on layup techniques during each practice. |
| Practice methods | Use small-sided games like 2-on-2 or 3-on-3. |
| Homework | Assign homework to reinforce what is taught during practice. |
| Layup type | Teach the two-footed layup for better balance and control. |
| Dribbling | Start by teaching no-dribbling layups, then progress to dribbling. |
| Ball placement | Teach players to keep the ball on the hip pocket on their shooting side. |
| Takeoff foot | Teach players to jump off their left foot when shooting with their right hand and vice versa. |
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What You'll Learn
Teach the basics first
When teaching young girls how to perform layups in basketball, it is important to start with the basics and ensure they have a good foundation. Here is a step-by-step guide to teaching the fundamentals of layups:
Start by explaining what a layup is and its importance in basketball. A layup is a fundamental skill in basketball that allows a player to drive towards the opponent's basket, jump close to the target, and release the ball safely off the backboard. Emphasize that layups have the highest percentage chance of scoring points, and 90% of points scored in youth basketball come from layups.
Begin with footwork and body positioning. Demonstrate and teach them the correct footwork, emphasizing that the takeoff foot should be opposite to the shooting hand (left foot/right hand). Have them practice stepping with their left foot, jumping, and shooting the layup with their right hand, and vice versa for the other side. Ensure they understand the concept of shielding the ball from the defense by keeping it on the hip pocket of their shooting hand side.
Next, introduce the concept of dribbling. Start with no dribbling layups to help them understand that they can make points while moving. Then, progress to teaching them how to add a dribble to the layup. Have them start near the free throw line and take one dribble before shooting the layup. Show them how to correctly dribble to the side of the net and how their footwork changes when adding a dribble.
After they have mastered the basics, you can introduce the six steps for performing a layup:
- Start on the low block.
- Take an inside step and go up into the layup with a high extension.
- Take a step back and teach no dribble, outside foot step, inside foot step, and jump.
- Add a dribble: outside foot step, inside foot, and jump.
- Practice from both the right and left sides.
- Finish with a floater or pass to a teammate.
Once they have mastered these steps, you can introduce the seven layup variations that all players must master. Remember to be patient and encourage them to focus on their technique and control rather than speed.
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Footwork and body control
To begin, players should start on the low block, with most players being right-handed, the right block is a good place to start as this will be most comfortable for them. The player should then take a step with their left foot, jump and shoot the layup. This should be practiced on both sides of the basket, with the ball kept in the hip pocket on the same side of the body as the shooting hand. This shields the ball from the defence.
The Two-Step Layup Drill is a great way to teach the footwork required to finish at the rim. This drill does not include dribbling, which may sound counterintuitive, but it allows players to concentrate on their footwork. The player should take two steps to finish the layup, taking their first step with the same-side foot as the shooting hand, and the second step with the other foot, finishing by laying the ball off the backboard with the shooting hand.
As players get more comfortable, they can start to increase their speed and work on performing layups while being defended or off of a long pass. It is important to practice until the muscles remember the movement, so the player does not have to think about which foot to put forward and which to jump off of.
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Drills and exercises
Jump-Stop Layup:
This is a fundamental skill for young players to master. Begin by teaching them to dribble to the hoop and perform a jump stop, using a step to the rim. This helps them develop balance and control. Emphasize the importance of correct footwork, ensuring they use a two-footed jump for better stability.
Two-Handed Layup:
Focus on the two-handed layup, which is more accessible for beginners. Instruct players to dribble to the hoop, jump, and shoot with both hands. This approach helps them understand that they can score points while moving. As they improve, introduce the concept of shielding the ball with their body during the shooting motion, keeping it on the side of their shooting hand to protect it from defenders.
Adding Dribbles:
Start with the basic jump-stop layup, and then introduce dribbles. Begin with players dribbling once before taking the jump shot. Have them start near the free-throw line and progress to starting beyond the three-point line as they improve. Ensure they practice this drill from both the right and left sides, developing their coordination.
Step-by-Step Progression:
Break down the layup into steps to ensure young players learn proper technique. Start with players on the low block, teaching them the inside step and the upward motion into the layup. Then, take a step back and introduce the outside foot step, inside foot step, and jump. Finally, add a dribble to this sequence, combining dribbling and footwork. Have them perform 3-5 repetitions of each step, ensuring they practice on both sides to develop ambidexterity.
Half-Court 2-on-1:
After players have grasped the basics, introduce competitive elements. Spend time playing half-court 2-on-1 games, allowing them to apply their layup skills in a more realistic setting. They will learn to adjust their techniques when faced with defenders, improving their overall game awareness.
Remember, teaching layups to young girls requires patience. These drills might seem straightforward, but they are challenging for beginners navigating footwork, ball pickup, and distance. Adapt the drills as needed to cater to their skill level and ensure a positive learning environment.
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Different types of layups
Layups are a key scoring option in basketball, with a generally higher success rate than other shots. They are particularly important in youth basketball, where 90% of points scored come from layups. There are several types of layups that players can use in different situations. Here are some of the most common:
Standard Layup
This is the most basic type of layup. To perform it, a player drives towards the basket, jumps off one foot (usually the foot opposite to the shooting hand), and lays the ball into the basket using the opposite hand. For example, a player jumping off the left foot shoots with the right hand. The other hand protects the ball from defenders.
Left- or Right-Handed Layup
Players can practice performing layups with either hand, which gives them more scoring options when approaching the basket.
Reverse Layup
There are two types of reverse layup: the outside hand reverse layup and the inside hand reverse layup. In a reverse layup, the player finishes the shot on the opposite side of the basket from where they started. For example, if they dribble in from the right, they go beyond the hoop and lay it up from the left side.
Euro Step Layup
This type of layup is beneficial when a player needs to quickly alter their angle of attack. It can create space between the player and an overly committed defender. It can be performed from a jump-stop position or from a moving "gather step".
Floater
This layup is useful when there is a tall defender waiting inside to block the shot. The player carefully pushes the ball up and above the defender's reach, aiming for a soft arch that will settle on top of the rim before falling into the hoop.
Up-and-Under Layup
Also called the "up-and-under move", this layup involves faking a shot to make the defender jump, then pivoting or stepping to lay up on the other side of the hoop. The fake shot is usually an over-the-head or hook shot.
360 Layup
This is a flashy shot where the player spins a full 360 degrees in the air while driving to the basket and then finishes with a layup. It is often used for showboating and rarely used in regular games due to its complexity.
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Adding defenders
When teaching young girls how to perform layups in basketball, it is important to start with the basics and gradually increase the difficulty. This can be done by first teaching the four progressions, then the seven layup variations, and finally, adding defenders.
Token Defence
Set up a drill with two lines of players at one end of the court. A coach or manager can act as a defender, offering token defence against the layup without blocking or stealing the ball. The defender can bump the shooter with a pad to simulate defensive contact. This helps players get used to finishing at the rim with defensive pressure.
Fast Break Scenario
In this drill, players start in a line at one baseline. On the coach's whistle, the first player sprints and dribbles to the opposite end to make a layup. This drill mimics a fast-break situation, emphasising speed and efficient scoring. You can increase the challenge by adding defenders or setting a time limit.
2-on-1 Half Court
Spend 10 minutes on a layup technique drill, then play a 2-on-1 game on a half court. Players might struggle at first, but they will benefit from the competition. They will learn to deal with defenders, make quick decisions, and improve their ball control.
Competitive Drills
For more advanced players, you can introduce competitive drills with defenders. For example, set up a 2v2 or 3v3 drill where players must dribble and make layups while dealing with defensive pressure. You can also vary the number of offensive and defensive players to create different scenarios.
Progressive Drills
Start with basic drills to teach shooting form, footwork, and ball handling. Gradually progress to more advanced drills that include defenders. This helps players develop their skills in a structured way and ensures they have a solid foundation before facing defensive challenges.
Remember, when adding defenders, it is important to tailor the drills to the skill level of your players. Start with basic defence and gradually increase the challenge as your players improve their layup skills.
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Frequently asked questions
Start with the basics. Teach them the four progressions and then move on to the seven layup variations. You can begin by teaching them the jump-stop two-handed layup. Then, teach them to dribble to the hoop and do a jump stop. Once they have mastered this, they can start practicing shooting. It is important to teach them to slow down and gain control of their body before shooting.
Rushing is one of the main reasons for missed layups. Players may also struggle with footwork, jumping off the wrong foot, or committing a travelling violation. It is important to be patient and remember that these steps might seem simple to you but are difficult for young players.
Teach players to start with the ball on their right hip pocket and focus on keeping it on that side of their body as they go up for the shot. They should then take a step with their left foot, jump, and shoot. This should be practiced from both sides of the basket.
A layup allows a player to drive at the opponent's basket, jump close to the target, and release the ball safely at the backboard. When a few meters away from the basket, the player should hold the ball with both hands on the shooting-hand side of the body. The last step before jumping is to ensure that the takeoff foot is opposite the shooting hand. Flex the knee at takeoff, extend the shooting knee, and raise the ball up between the shoulder and ear.
