Defensive Rebounding

By Paul Tayyar, eteamz.com

Defensive rebounding is very important in helping your lead your team to victory! Here is a drill to help you become a great rebounder.

How to Run the Drill:

Position one player from the three free-throw elbow extended (meaning: Outside the three-point line in a direct path from the free throw elbow). Have one coach shoot the ball—intending to miss—toward the basket. Have one player positioned right on top of the dotted circle, ready to grab the rebound.

Once he has taken the ball off the rim, have him pivot, and outlet the ball to the player waiting outside the three point line. This final action simulates what would be the beginning of a fast break in a real game. In defensive rebounding drills it is always advisable to have your players practice throwing the outlet pass, as it is a necessary skill for the front line positions to have.

Key Points:

Make sure the player waiting for the rebound is well-balanced, with his arms up above his shoulders, elbows bent at 90-degree angles. Once he has collected the rebound, make sure he does not bring the ball below the chest, so he does not get into the habit of bringing the ball low, where a player could steal it in a game situation. Lastly, make sure that he throws the ball with two hands to the outlet man; Do not let them get in the habit of throwing a baseball pass to the outlet. Though there are certain situations where a baseball pass would be necessary, never allow it in drills so as the players do not get sloppy in their mechanics.