1-on-1
Compete straight up — create a shot, or get a stop.
What this drill teaches
The unfiltered test: create a shot against a live defender, or get a stop against a live attacker. Nothing is scripted, so every possession forces a real read — and every weakness gets found and worked on honestly.
In games: Game-day scoring almost always starts with beating one defender, and game-day defence with holding one attacker — this is that exact moment, over and over.
- Decisive attacks — a move and a go, not ten pounding dribbles
- Defenders low, containing, and contesting without fouling
- Calls respected and the next possession started fast
U10: a two-dribble limit stops endless pounding — expect scrappy possessions. U14–U16: expect real moves, real closeouts and honest self-officiating.
Equipment
1 ball, half court
Setup
Offence at the top with the ball, defence guarding. Winner's choice of rules.
Steps
- 1Offence attacks from the top of the key.
- 2Play live to a make or a defensive stop.
- 3Make-it-take-it, or rotate every possession.
- 4Keep games short — first to 2 or 3 baskets.
Coaching points
- Offence: attack, don't dribble aimlessly.
- Defence: stay low, contain, contest the shot.
- Compete hard, respect the calls.
Why kids love it
Nothing sharpens a player like a true 1-on-1 — and kids love the personal battle.
Variations
Two-dribble limit to encourage decisive moves.
Start the offence with their back to the basket at the elbow, three-second count on.
Defender starts under the rim and must sprint out to close out before the attacker can shoot.