Expert: Bob Anagnostou - 4/21/2007

Question
Coach,
can you tell me some drills that will help me get to the basket quicker off the dribble. when i'm attacking the basket, should i take long or short steps or can you tell me the different situations when i do need to use these types of steps. Also when i attack the basket when should i use the attacking dribbles?

Answer
Dear friend,

Use small steps when outside the 3-point line. You got to protect the ball and the first option is always the good pass. Keep your head up. Use a blast and a big step to start a play to the basket. Accelerate using big steps at the start and then small and quick steps when you reach the next defender.

Crossover move is best to start a play outside 3 point line. Spin move is the best just before entering the key to make your way to a lay-up or fade away shoot.

Also, on defense it's important to learn the "close out" where steps is the key. When the offender receives the ball from a split out and you were on a help (because basketball is a team sport, don't forget that) take big qick steps on the start to get closer and in the last feet approach with "rock" steps with your hands dening the shot, always giving him a path to the base or sideline.

Now about drills check this sites with handle improving and dribbling drills.

http://www.degerstrom.com/basketball/drills/ballhandling/
http://www.basketball-drills-and-plays.com/ball-handling-drills.html

Start sprints with 2 or pound ankle weights also.

Sincerely Yours,
Coach B.Anagnostou
Olympiacos Coaching stuff
(Euroleague, HEBA)