Practice Time

Perfecting The Art Of Rebounding

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An edge in rebounding can be a big advantage for any basketball team, even more so if the rebounder knows what to do with the ball once it is secured. Here's a drill that not only works on crashing the defensive glass, but also getting the ball going the other way in a hurry.

The Drill

Position one player outside the three-point line in a direct path from the free-throw elbow. Have a coach shoot the ball--intending to miss--at the basket. Have another player positioned right on top of the dotted circle, ready to grab the rebound. Once that player has taken the ball off the rim, have him pivot and immediately 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 crucial to have your players practice throwing the outlet pass, as it is a necessary skill for the frontline 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.

--Lastly, make sure that he throws the ball with two hands to the outlet man. Do NOT let them get into the habit of throwing a baseball pass to the outlet man. Though there are certain situations where a baseball pass would be necessary, never allow it in drills so the players do not get sloppy in their mechanics.

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