Coaching youth basketball means facing a lot of pressing defenses, and breaking the press can be a major challenge. But what if one small adjustment could make it easier for your team?
Here’s the tip:
For right-handed players, have them catch the ball on the left side of the floor.
Here’s why this works:
• More Space for Their Strong Hand: By catching the ball on the left side, the player has space to dribble with their dominant (right) hand. This makes it easier to turn the corner and attack the press.
• Avoiding the Sideline Trap: If a right-handed player catches the ball on the right side, they’re immediately forced toward the sideline. This puts them in a tight space and forces them to their weaker (left) hand, which often leads to more turnovers.
By simply adjusting where your players catch the ball, you can reduce turnovers and make your press break more effective.
How to Teach It in Practice:
• During press break drills, emphasize spacing and positioning.
• Practice catching on the left side for right-handed players (and vice versa for lefties).
• Teach players to be aware of where they are on the court to avoid getting trapped.
This small adjustment can make a big difference in helping your team handle pressure, keep possession, and transition into your offense with confidence.
The Takeaway: Simple positioning can set your players up for success. Small tweaks like this can help your team navigate the chaos of pressing defenses and play with more poise.
— Reid Ouse
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