Get to the hoop faster
Five video lessons on a quicker first step, convincing fakes, and decisive drives.
Watch one lesson. Try one move. Add a defender.
First-step footwork
Lesson: A brief backward loading step—the “negative step”—connects into a forward burst.
Watch for: The immediate push forward after loading.
Try together: Rehearse one demonstrated drill without a ball, then while dribbling. In stationary practice with the ball, preserve the pivot foot.
Drive off the catch
Lesson: Catch ready to shoot. When the defender closes out, bring the ball tightly across your body and attack the opening.
Watch for: A direct driving path; a jump stop or direction change when help arrives.
Try together: Pass from the side, close out gently, and let the player read the opening.
Pump fake, then accelerate
Lesson: Bend your knees as you show the ball. Stay low enough to push into the drive.
Watch for: A believable shooting motion and a first dribble that gains ground.
Try together: Receive a pass, show the shot, and drive when the defender leans toward the fake.
Jab step, then read
Focus: Choose one jab-step option for creating space against pressure.
Start with: Partial Step · 0:27 and Slow to Go · 2:33.
Try together: Practice one variation against light defense. Notice the opening it creates before adding another move.
Change gears on purpose
Lesson: Use a relaxed setup, then drop quickly and accelerate. Learn the rhythm without a ball before adding dribbling.
Watch: Dribbling · 2:40; live 1-on-1 · 5:57.
Try together: Exaggerate the change of speed. Allow three dribbles after the attacking burst begins.
A short session together
Our suggested practice plan, after warming up.
- 2 min: Rehearse one move in both directions.
- 3 min: Add a controlled burst and finish.
- 5 min: Play light 1-on-1; allow three dribbles after the attack begins.
One cue: “See the opening, then go.”
What to notice
Suggested parent/player check-in.
Choose one focus for the session:
- Does the first attacking dribble gain ground?
- Does the player accelerate once the fake creates an opening?
- Can the player keep the ball under control through the finish?
After a rep, ask: “What did the defender give you?”
Praise a clear decision and a committed attempt—even when the shot misses.