This week’s player development feature focuses on the 2’s and 3’s of the offensive system and breaks down several drills designed to improve overall play. From proper technique and footwork to spacing and shooting exercises, Walberg works with players step-by-step in each drill so that you can easily implement these important aspects within your own program.

Kick-Up Three’s

Overview: This drill features only the “2” and “3” players. The 3 player starts with the ball between half-court and the top of the key. He makes a hard penetration towards the hoop and jump-stops at the foul line. Meanwhile, the 2 man starts out in the near corner and does not make a move until the 3 jump-stops at the foul line. Once that happens, 2 cuts hard to the wing, receives the pass from 3 and takes the 3-point shot. As soon as 3 dishes off to 2, he then sprints into the near corner where 3 had vacated and then cuts hard down the floor to get back on defense.

Keys:
*2’s and 3’s must be patient. 2 shouldn’t leave his spot in the corner until 3 jump-stops at the foul line. However, it’s only okay to leave early if the player cuts toward the basket, but not if he’s just kicking up to the wing. Spacing and timing are two very important elements here.

*The 3 must use an attack dribble and only dribble once. Shoulders should always be facing the basket.

*Remember to “clip the hip” of the defender. Don’t take the big gap around. A good “racker” will initiate contact first.

Kick-Up Rack

Overview: In this drill, instead of 2 taking the long jumper, he will drive quickly to the hoop for a layup. As soon as 2 receives the pass from 3, he will “rip and go” versus going into a triple threat position and then driving to the basket.

Keys:
*Remember to make it a “positive” kick-up.

Kick-Up Rack Drag 2

Overview: In Drag 2, the simulation goes one step further. 3 jump-stops at the foul line and then dishes off to 2 on the wing. 2 drives to the lane but then passes back out to 3, who had sprinted to the wing area. 3 then takes the long jumper from the wing.

Keys:
*When driving to the lane, players must master the step-back dribble. This is key to eluding your defender and then being able to deliver an accurate pass to your teammate.

*Make sure that second pass is an overhead pass.

The drills featured in this week’s player development article can be seen in Championship Productions’ DVD “100 Drills & Sets for Implementing the Dribble Drive Offense.”  To see more drills and videos featuring Vance Walberg and the Dribble Drive Offense, click here.

John Calipari’s Dribble Drive 3-Pack
John Calipari: The Definitive Dribble Drive Motion Offense
John Calipari: Developing the Dribble Drive Skill Set
John Calipari: Breakdown Drills for the Dribble Drive Motion Offense

John Calipari: Building a Dominant Defensive System
John Calipari: Fundamentals for Becoming an All-Star
John Calipari: Coaching and Inspiring Today’s Athlete