Basketball Tip
One Person Basketball Drill: Rebounding off the Backboard
In the game of basketball that you can over shoot, dribble, and pass, but one thing that you cannot overdo is rebound. Rebounding, whether on offense or defense, allows your team to obtain possession of the ball and set you up to take more shots, ultimately assisting your team in winning the game.
While you may believe that your short height means you will not be a good rebounder, our Nike Basketball Camp coaches see it differently. When you are near the basket on offense, it is important that you have quick hands to tip in the ball and to gain some easy points. Yes, this is exponentially easier when you are a tall post player, but there are ways to help put you in a better position under the hoop. Our coaches frequently utilize this offensive rebounding drill for campers who are not as tall to help them develop a fast second jump. That way, when it is time to fight for the ball, they have the upper hand!
Off the Backboard Drill
All you will need for this drill is yourself, a ball and a backboard. Begin the drill by standing on the left side of the backboard with the ball in your left hand. You will tip the ball at the backboard three times in a row and score on the fourth time. Between each tip you are aiming to get your feet off the ground as high as you can and as fast as possible. After you score on the fourth tip, switch to the other side of the basket and use your right hand. Repeat until you feel comfortable using both hands and then you can bring in a defender to make it more challenging.
Common Mistakes
One mistake that is often made between tips is bending the shooting elbow. By doing this, you are making it much easier for the defense to reach and grab the ball. Try to keep your shooting arm straight, this will allow you to compete with players who are taller than you. Lastly, it may take a while to master the timing of each jump, if you jump too soon you will miss the ball and if you are too late, the defense might take it. After you complete a few iterations of the drill, you should feel more confident on when to jump!
This is a fundamental drill that can be used at any level to highlight the significance of the rebound. Remember that rebounding requires less skill than it does determination and drive. Take a look at more basketball drills and tips like this one that will help you grow as an athlete.