Closeout & Swing (2 Wings)

Setup

Two offensive players on opposite wings, one ball between them. One defender starts in the paint in help position.

Steps

1. 1Ball starts on one wing; the defender sprints out and closes out — short, choppy steps with a high hand.
2. 2Offence may catch-and-shoot or drive one dribble; the defender contests.
3. 3The ball is swung (skip pass) across to the far wing.
4. 4The defender sprints to recover and closes out the other side. Repeat, then rotate the defender.

Coaching points

• Close out under control — break down with short, choppy steps, don't fly by.
• High hand to contest, chest square, force your player one way.
• Sprint the recovery, then break down again before the catch.

Why kids love it

Turns the most-tested defensive skill — closing out a shooter — into a two-sided, game-like rep the defender never gets a rest on.

Variations