Basketball Tip

Basketball Tip: 3 Drills to Help Improve Your Rebounding

Strong rebounding skills can make all the difference in the outcome of a basketball game. A team that has a solid rebounding foundation keeps the pressure on its opponent at both ends of the floor. This secures defensive rebounds to limit the opposition’s chances of scoring, as well as pulling in rebounds on the offensive glass to extend your own team’s scoring opportunities. Here are three rebounding drills and fundamental staples from our coaches at Nike Basketball Camps that they teach all year round.

Timing Drill
Although this is best used as a team drill, you will still be able to do this with only one other partner. For this drill, the first person in line will pass the ball to themselves off the backboard and go up strong with two hands to secure the rebound. Next, pivot once they have control of the ball and pass to the next person, who then repeats the same drill. This allows the player to feel comfortable going up for the ball, while also allowing them to practice pivoting and passing after securing a rebound. Repeat as needed.

Positioning Drill
Timing your jump correctly is a big part of rebounding yet your positioning is ultimately what will put you in the best spot to grab a rebound. Boxing out is imperative as you will use your body to shield off your opponent while going for a rebound.

For this drill, all you need is one or more partners with one person shooting the ball. Ideally, there will be an even number of offensive and defensive players. The defense starts around the free-throw area, while the offense waits a little further outside of the key. When the shot goes up, the defense should find the nearest offensive player and use their body to box them out and prevent them from getting the rebound. The goal of this drill for the defensive players is to let the ball bounce after the shot goes up, while the offense is trying to secure the rebound. This drill really emphasizes the importance of good body positioning on the defensive end. Once each player on the offensive team has a chance to shoot, switch sides and repeat.

Mentality Drill
The last piece of the puzzle is getting in the right mindset to rebound the basketball. It has been said by many great coaches that rebounding is 20% skill and 80% hustle and determination. This last drill really focuses on the importance of being determined to get the ball, or in this case preventing your partner from getting the ball.

You will need one or more partners and a ball. Pairing up with a similar size and position if possible, there will be one offensive and one defensive player. There will be a ball placed on the ground a few feet away from the players. The goal of this drill from the defensive side is to get in the box out position and prevent the offensive player from reaching the ball for five seconds. This drill is excellent at imitating the relentless determination it takes to become a great rebounder.

It's not always the most athletic person or the person that can jump the highest that gets the rebound. In fact, more often than not the player with the best position, most determination, and hustle wins the loose ball. Check out more basketball rebounding tips and join us this summer at a Nike Basketball Camp near you!