1v2 Zone Press Drill

Source: The Game Based Training System With Nate Sanderson

Handling pressure is a must have skill at all levels. This drill is a great way to teach players how to value the ball when they are being trapped. It also allows your defenders to work on proper trapping angles and technique.

Diagrams

Diagram 1 - Instructions

Setup

• Player 2 has a basketball and is in the free throw line area. Player 1 is on the sideline, level with player 2
• X2 guards 2. X1 waits back at the opposite volleyball line.
• Cones are placed down the center of the court to limit the area 1 has to use.

Instructions

• 2 passes to 1. 2 is then out of the play.
• 1 catches and attacks with speed.
• X2 sprints towards half court to attempt to trap play 1 with x1.
• Play continues until the offensive player gets to the opposite volleyball line or the defense forces a turnover.

(Diagram 1)

Coaching Tips

• Stress to the defenders the importance of good trapping technique. They should look to take good angles and then lock feet when they trap 1.
• 1 should look to attack with speed. The slower 1 goes, the more time for the defense to set a trap. 1 should attack and look to split or beat the trap making one hard move.
• Make the drill easier for the offense by moving the dribble ahead of the passer by a couple steps. Make it harder by moving them behind the passer.
• You can adjust the difficulty of the drill by where you place the cones. The more space you give the offense, the more it gives them an advantage.
• Instead of having play stop if the offense gets to the volleyball line, consider having the offense try to score.
• Remind your players that in a game, they should look to pass when the other team attempts to trap. This drill is meant to challenge their ball handling more so than replicate what they would do in a game.
• Sometimes the defense won’t be able to trap. In those situations, encourage them to look to back tap up on the ball from behind.

Made by Breakthrough Basketball