Layup Package: Euro Step, Reverse and Weak Hand
A set of finishes near the rim for high school seniors: weak-hand layup, Euro step and reverse layup on the other side of the rim. The traveling rule (two steps after the gather) is enforced, and it ends with students choosing the finish based on where the defender is.
How to play
- Review the rule: after gathering the ball you get two steps; show the difference between a legal layup and a travel (4 min).
- In two lines per basket, one on each wing, layups with the right hand from the right and the left hand from the left, stressing the weak hand (5 min).
- Euro step: first step to one side of a cone placed in the lane and second step diagonally to the other side before finishing (5 min).
- Reverse: drive along the baseline, go under the rim and finish on the other side using the rim as protection (5 min).
- Read: a classmate with arms out stands on a random side of the cone and the attacker chooses the finish that avoids them (6 min).
Rules
- After finishing, leave the lane toward the sideline so you don't collide with the next player.
- The defender in the read drill is stationary and does not jump.
- A layup with a travel does not count even if it goes in.
- Leave the line only after the previous player has finished.
Variations
Easier
Do it without dribbling: two steps from a standstill, receiving the ball in hand.
Standard
Weak hand, Euro step and reverse with a read on a stationary defender.
Harder
The defender becomes active and can slide one step to the side of their choice.
Adaptations
- Wheelchair user: two pushes after the last dribble and a bank shot from both sides.
- Coordination difficulties: break down each layup with footprints on the floor.
- Visual impairment: a partner guides by voice from the rim and calls out the cone's side.
Learning goals
- Make legal layups with both hands and with a change of direction.
- Apply the traveling rule correctly when finishing.
- Choose the right finish based on the defender's position.
Equipment for a class of 25
- basketballs: 15
- cones: 12
Teacher tip
The Euro step causes lots of travels at first: have students practice it without dribbling first. If baskets are scarce, also use the side baskets with short lines.
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