Kristian Ferrell
Posting up in basketball is an offensive strategy where a player moves into the post area of the basketball court, usually the low post, to receive a pass. The post area is the area from the free-throw line to the baseline, usually painted a solid colour and known as the paint or the key. Once in position, the offensive player will face away from the basket and get ready to receive a pass. When the player receives the ball, they can pivot, back down a defender, spin, fake out, or power dribble to create scoring opportunities. Bigger players generally conduct post plays because of their height advantage.
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What You'll Learn
Post positions: high and low
Posting up in basketball involves an offensive player moving into the post area of the basketball court, usually the low post, to receive a pass. The post area is the area from the free-throw line to the baseline, usually painted a solid colour and known as the paint or the key.
There are two post positions: the high post and the low post. The high post is the upper area, near the free-throw line, and the low post is the area near the basket.
High post players usually begin with their faces towards the basket, while low post players start with their backs to the basket. When a low post player receives the ball from a perimeter player, they can attempt to score with a layup or dunk.
High and low post positions offer ample scoring opportunities. Players in these positions can go for a layup, up and under the shot, or a slam dunk. They can also perform a mid-range shot like a jump shot, fadeaway, or hook shot.
The post is also where most rebounds happen, so players need to be ready to rush in and rebound the ball. Getting rebounds, blocking shots, and stealing the ball from offensive players are critical to an effective defence.
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Offensive strategies
Once in position, the offensive player will face away from the basket and get ready to receive a pass from the point guard. To help with this, the player can make eye contact with the passer. Once the player in the post position has received the ball, they can pivot, back down a defender, spin, fake out, or power dribble to create scoring opportunities. They can also try to draw fouls or rely on their speed, agility, and precision footwork to outmaneuver their defender.
When playing in the post, it is important to be able to decisively react to what the defence gives you. This can be achieved by committing your post moves to muscle memory through repetition. Communication is also key, and players should talk to their guards about when they are open and where they want to be positioned.
Players in the post position have ample opportunities for scoring. They can go in for a layup, up and under shot, slam dunk, or perform a mid-range shot like a jump shot, fadeaway, or hook shot. The post is also where most rebounds happen, so players need to be ready to rush in to rebound the ball.
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Footwork and agility
Developing ambidextrous footwork is crucial. Players should practice finishing plays with both hands to enhance their agility and movement. Drills that focus on footwork and agility help players develop dynamic coordination and improve their footwork technique. For example, tire running helps build explosive leg strength and power, while ladder drills enhance foot speed and coordination. Cone drills are also beneficial for practicing pivots, cuts, and slides, and box jumps improve first-step explosiveness.
Additionally, players should focus on developing a strong core and improving body control. This creates a foundation for advanced scoring and defensive techniques. The more a player practices, the more they can improve their agility and quickness, which are vital for posting up effectively.
Overall, mastering footwork and agility techniques is essential for posting up in basketball. It provides players with a competitive edge, allowing them to create space, improve balance, and execute various moves during the game.
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Scoring techniques
Posting up is an essential part of basketball, and players need to be adept at using the post area for both offensive and defensive plays. The post area, also known as the paint or the key, is the area of the basketball court from the free-throw line to the baseline, usually painted a solid colour. There are two post positions: the high post or upper post, which is near the free-throw line, and the low post, which is near the basket. Offensive players can position themselves in either of these posts to receive a pass and create scoring opportunities.
Pivoting and Spinning
When a player receives the ball in the post, they can pivot to face the basket and shoot, or spin to fake out their defender and create space for a shot. This spin move is especially effective if the player catches the ball close to the basket, as it gives them a quick opportunity to shoot before the defender can recover.
Backing Down and Power Dribbling
A player with the ball in the post can back down their defender, using their body to maintain position between the defender and the basket. From this position, they can power dribble, using strong, protected dribbles to move towards the basket for a shot.
Drawing Fouls
Due to the high possibility of scoring from the post, defenders will often be aggressive in this area. Post players can take advantage of this by drawing fouls, which can result in free throws, and even bonus free throws if the defending team is over the foul limit.
Mid-Range and Close-Range Shots
Depending on the defensive play and the distance from the basket, players in the post can utilise various shots. For instance, if the defender is playing close, a quick jump hook or layup can be effective. If the defender is further away, a mid-range shot like a fadeaway or a hook shot may be a better option.
Rebounding
While not a direct scoring technique, being in the post area provides an opportunity to rebound the ball if a shot is missed. Players should be ready to rush in for the rebound, as this can quickly turn into a scoring opportunity.
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Rebounding
Offensive rebounding requires an aggressive mindset. Unless you are responsible for getting back on defence, you must crash the boards. This means fighting to get to the rim and get your hands on the ball. You should be hungry for the ball and not be afraid to occasionally get fouled.
Defensive rebounding requires more skill. You must be able to read the game and know where and how the ball is coming off the rim. This allows you to anticipate misses and get into the correct position for the rebound.
When boxing out, you must place yourself between your opponent and the basket, blocking their path to the ball. You can do this by first making contact with their chest, then turning towards the basket. You should not hold them back with your arms, but instead, raise your hands above shoulder height to be ready for the rebound.
When going for the rebound, you should use both arms, as this makes it easier to secure the ball. You can reach a little higher if you touch the ball with one hand and then the other. Once you have the ball, pull it towards your chest while still in the air. When landing, bend your knees to protect your joints. To secure the ball, spread your elbows outwards, but do not swing them wildly to avoid committing a foul.
Mental training can also help improve your rebounding skills. The more you can focus on the ball, its trajectory, and the rebound angle, the better you can position yourself.
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Frequently asked questions
Posting up in basketball refers to when offensive players position themselves in the post, which is the area of the basketball court from the free-throw line to the baseline, usually painted a solid colour.
The post area, also known as the paint or the key, includes two positions: the high post or upper post, which is below the free-throw line, and the low post, which is closer to the basket.
When posting up, offensive players face away from the basket and get ready to receive a pass. Once they have the ball, they can pivot, back down a defender, spin, fake out, or use footwork and agility to create scoring opportunities.
Posting up offers ample opportunities for scoring and rebounding. It can also be used defensively to block shots and steal the ball. Bigger players often conduct post plays due to their height advantage.
Communication is key when posting up. Offensive players should make eye contact with the passer and talk to their guards about when they are open and where they want to be positioned. Additionally, committing post moves to muscle memory allows players to react decisively to the defence.
