Zoom Reads Drill

Diagrams

Diagram 1 - Setup

Purpose

• Once players are able to make reads in the 1 on 1 and 2 on 2 drills then it is time to introduce the full zoom action in 3 on 3 small sided games. This drill incorporates all three spots and works on all of the reads that will be happening within this action. This drill can be focused on a specific action, players, or read and should be a staple of any practice plan for teams implementing zoom actions in their offense.

Setup

• Player 1 starts at the top of the key with a basketball and a defender
• Player 2 starts on the wing with a defender
• Player 3 starts in the corner with a defender

(Diagram 1)

Instructions

• The drill begins with player 2 setting a screener for player 3 while at the same time player 1 dribbles directly at player
• 2. At this point the drill is live 3 on 3 with the opposite lane line serving as an out of bounds.

Points of Emphasis

• Reads/reactions to the other players
• Getting downhill into the paint on the dribble handoffs.
• Quick/Hard cuts while reading the zoom action

Variations

• Start with the ball on the opposite wing: Have a coach or manager start with the basketball and the drill begins when the ball is passed to the player at the top of the key. Also, the defenders should be in their help positions while the ball is on the opposite wing. This allows for a more accurate timing of when the ball is swung directly into a zoom action.
• Predetermine Reads: When beginning to teach the zoom action, it may be beneficial to give the cutter a predetermined action (back cut, take dribble handoff, or don’t take dribble handoff) in order to focus on exactly what the read will look like in live 5 on 5 action.
• Specific Player Must Get a Shot: Challenge your players with giving them a predetermined player who must get the shot. This will help them focus on which read will be needed in the zoom action. This shouldn’t be done all of the time but a good changeup to help get more out of the drill.

Coaching Tips

• Mistakes Are Going to Happen: Remind players that the read they make won’t be the best one every time. A bad read that is done quickly and decisively is always better than in decision.
• Teach by Using the Defense: Teach the reads within the zoom by using the defensive players. For example, talk about the defensive player who went under the screen and that is why the offensive team got an open look. This will help the players understand the “why” behind the reads of the zoom action.

Made by Breakthrough Basketball