Layup Progression: One, Two, Up

Progression to learn the layup: jump from one step, two steps with the ball in hand, then with one dribble, and finally the full layup on the run. Students develop coordination of feet, hands and jump, using hula hoops to mark the footsteps.

How to play

1. Make groups of 4 per basket with balls; place two hoops on the floor at a 45-degree angle to the rim to mark the steps, and a cone 6 ft back.
2. Step 1 (4 min): from the last hoop, lift the knee on the shooting-hand side and lay the ball off the backboard (from the right: left foot, right knee up).
3. Step 2 (4 min): no dribble, 'one' in the first hoop, 'two' in the second, then 'up'; everyone says the rhythm out loud.
4. Step 3 (4 min): from the cone, one dribble, pick up the ball and go one, two, up; remove the hoops once footwork is solid.
5. Step 4 (4 min): full layup with several dribbles; everyone counts makes out of 5, then repeats from the left.
6. At the end, each student says which step they are on and what they still need.

Rules

• Wait behind the cone until the player ahead gets their ball.
• Return around the outside, never across the next player's path.
• Move up a step after making 3 of 5, not when everyone else does.

Variations

Adaptations

• Limited mobility: wheelchair layup with two pushes and a shot at a lowered hoop.
• Hearing impairment: show the rhythm with three visible claps or cards.
• Lower coordination: the student may stay longer on the hoop step.

Learning goals

• Coordinate the two steps and the jump in a layup.
• Use the backboard to lay the ball in softly.
• Assess personal progress and set the next step.

Equipment for a class of 25

• youth basketballs: 12
• basketball hoops: 6
• hula hoops: 12
• cones: 6

Teacher tip

The classic mistake is jumping off the same foot as the shooting hand; the hoops fix it fast. Left-handed students start on the left.

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