Ball Protection Basketball Finish Move

Being able to make an explosive move to the basket is just one part of the equation. You must also be able to protect the ball against an on-ball defender and any help defenders that may try to get their active hands in the play. It is important that you are spending time working on ball protection when working on finishing.

This drill that we offer in our basketball training groups is going to work on protecting the ball against an over aggressive defender, and a help defender that doesn't quite get all the way in the help to take a charge but is looking to strip the ball as you drive to the basket.

Drill Overview

Drill Name: Ball Protection Basketball Finish Move

Equipment Needed: 1 basketball, dummy defender (optional).

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Goals of the Drill

Work on attacking the basket and protecting the ball as you go to finish at the rim.

Coaching Points

Bring the ball over top with both hands to remain strong on the move.
Feel the defenders weight against you and when you feel that their momentum is making them out of control, use your body to step across and change the angle and finish.

Drill Instructions

This move is going to be used in two types of situations.
The first is against an on-ball defender, and the second is against a help defender reaching in.
Against an on-ball defender that is beat but staying connected on your hip, you are going feel their body weight against you and when you get to the spot on the floor that you want, you are going to change direction, bring the ball over top with both hands, put the defender on your back, and then finish at the basket.
With the help defender, you are going to recognize that they are stepping up in the gap, but are still allowing a small space to sneak through.
You want to bring the ball up over top with both hands to prevent the help defender from having a chance to strip the ball.