Shot Fakes

Bobby Knight will tell you that a shot fake is the greatest weapon in basketball. A player who uses this weapon shows patience and proves that he has strong fundamental skills. "A shot fake should be used right after you make a shot to keep the defensive player guessing." Better yet if a defender is running out on you (a close out); use a shot fake to freeze him. Add one dribble go left or right and you have an open shot.

With my players I  add some type of fake in each drill. The reasoning behind this is simple. Bad defenders are notoriously known to fall victim to ball fakes.

As an added bonus you will find a shooting drill towards the end of the post. Use this drill in season and in the off-season. Train above game speed, push your limits.

This drills calls for the athlete shooting 60 jump shots and 12 free throws.
Items needed for this drill are a basketball, shooting strap, and the desire to get better.

Step 1 Start at the top of the key in triple threat position. Hold on to the ball nice and tight!

Step 2 Raise the ball slightly above your head, and only use your arms to do so. Stay low so you can move quick. You can only use one dribble.

Step 3 Put the ball down first and use your first step quickness to get to the right elbow for a game situation jump shot.

Step 4 Repeat steps 1 to 3, but change sides so you will be shooting from the left elbow.

Step 5 After you shoot 20 jump-shots, move to the free throw line and shot 4 free throws.

Drill Breakdown

Right Elbow to Left Elbow
Shot fake/ 20 jump shots / 4 free throws

Right Elbow to Right Baseline
Ball to knee fake/ 20 jump shots / 4 free throws

Left Elbow to Left Baseline
Imagination mix between the shot fakes & ball to knee fakes
20 jump shots / 4 free throws

Youth Basketball Training Tampa