Fast Break Drill 3 with Follow Up Spot Shots

Notice: This article was written by Steve Jordan, Coach's Notebook. Email the author at sjordan@alaskalife.net.

Setup: Full court, with players forming three lines at one baseline. They run the drill in one direction, then return up the sidelines while the next three players do the drill.

Introduction: The objective is to practice the fast break concepts of the outlet pass, a quick long pass to the leading player for a layup, with the trailing players using the outside lanes and setting up for a spot shot.

Benefits: Sometimes, in a game, the lead player does not complete the layup (perhaps there is a defender there) but you still have a numbers advantage. If the trailing players go to the wing positions and spot up, they may have an open shot. It's the coach's choice, of course, as to whether the players shoot a three or move in closer. The players like the variety and challenge of the additional outside shot.

Pitfalls: An outside shot is not the primary objective of a fast break. If your kids are in the habit of running down the floor and jacking up threes instead of setting up your offense, this drill won't help you much.

Diagram #1:

1. Starting at the bottom of the diagram, the first three players in line will break towards the basket at the top of the diagram.
2. Player 1 simulates a rebound of the glass.
3. Player 1 passes to either outlet to start the break, in this case, Player 2.
4. Player 3 stays in the outside lane and goes upcourt at top speed.
5. Player 2 passes the ball to Player 3 as shown with the objective of getting the ball upcourt as soon as reasonably possible.
6. Player 1 follows in the outside lane of the lead breaker.
7. Once Player 3 shoots the layup, Players 1 and 2 should be in the spot up positions.
8. Player 3 kicks the ball out to one of them for a three point attempt.
9. After shooting the three, the shooter and Player 3 rebound. Player 1 stays put.
10. The ball is fed to Player 1 for a three point attempt.
11. All three players rebound
12. All three players return by running down the sideline.