Back to the Basket: Low-Post 1v1

Trios at each hoop learn to catch with their back to the basket on the low block, pivot and finish against a defender. It works pivoting, fakes and scoring close to the rim.

How to play

1. Pivots with the ball on the low block: front pivot and reverse pivot on both feet (5 min).
2. Catch with back to the basket off a wing pass and turn for a bank shot with no defense (5 min).
3. Passive defender behind: shot fake, turn the other way and shoot (5 min).
4. Live 1v1 with three possessions each; the passer becomes the defender in the next rotation (8 min).
5. Group talk: which turn worked best and why (2 min).

Rules

• No attacker stays more than three seconds in the lane without shooting or stepping out.
• No elbows and no pushing with the forearm.
• Defenders don't hang on or push the attacker in the back.
• Match partners of similar size and skill.

Variations

Adaptations

• Wheelchair users: make the turns with the chair and shoot at a lowered hoop; the defender also stays in place.
• Students with visual impairments: the passer says "ball" when passing, and a partner orients them toward the backboard.
• Students who fear contact: play no-contact 1v1 with the defender an arm's length away.

Learning goals

• Use the pivot foot correctly.
• Finish near the rim after a fake and turn.
• Defend the post without fouling.

Equipment for a class of 25

• basketballs: 10
• basketball hoops: 6

Teacher tip

Group by height and strength so battles are fair. The usual mistake is dragging the pivot foot on the turn; mark it with chalk at first.

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