Closeout & Contest

Skill drill

Sprint-and-break-down closeouts that contest the shot and take away the drive.

8 min groups of 3 Half court · dual
DefenseFootworkU12U14U16
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OffenseDefenseBall / cone Move Pass
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Setup

A defender under the rim, a shooter on the wing, a passer up top.

Steps

  1. 1Pass to the wing; the defender sprints out.
  2. 2Break down into short, choppy steps and get a high hand up.
  3. 3Contest a shot, or slide and contain a one-dribble drive.
  4. 4Finish by boxing out. Rotate through.

Coaching points

  • Sprint the first two-thirds, chop the last third.
  • High hand straight up — contest without fouling.
  • Stay balanced so you can still guard the drive.

Why kids love it

The single most-tested individual defensive skill — done at game speed with a real contest.

Variations

Harder

Live 1-on-1 after the closeout to a make or stop.