A fastbreak in basketball refers to moving the ball up the court as quickly as possible to try and score a basket. The fastbreak is executed from the end of the court at which a team plays defense, following a rebound, turnover or score by the opposing team. The fastbreak is more than simply heaving the ball down court like a football quarterback. To perform the fastbreak effectively requires the five players on the court to fill specific roles.
Outlet Pass to the Wing
The wings refer to the left and right sides of the court. To practice an outlet pass to the wing, start with two offensive and two defensive rebounders under the basket. Place a guard on each wing close to midcourt. The coach throws the ball off the backboard, and the players under the basket fight for the rebound. When the defensive player gets possession, he must pivot quickly and throw a two-handed pass to the guard on the wing to which he is closest. The focus of this drill is to gain possession and make a strong pass as quickly as possible.
Outlet Pass to Center
The outlet pass to the center of the court is a drill run the same way as the outlet pass to wing drill, except that the guard stands in the middle of the court just above the free throw line. Once the guard receives the ball from the rebounder, he immediately turns to dribble up the court.
After Opponent Scores
Many times when the opposition scores, the players seem in no hurry to get back to their end of the court. This is a good opportunity to use the fastbreak. For this drill, have one player with the ball behind the end line. He then quickly passes it to a teammate in the left low post, which is just to the left of the basket. That player must quickly relay the ball to a player at the right sideline near midcourt, and he then passes to a player in the middle of the court on the opponent's end. The fifth player streaks to the basket and receives the pass to score. This drill must be performed with speed and precision in order for it to work in a game.
Finishing the Break
Practice different scenarios at the opponent's end of the court, so the play will finish with a basket after the ball arrives. Practice having one player being alone to go to the basket, two offensive players against one defender and three offensive players against two defenders. Force the players to read the play as it develops and make the best move for the situation based on the reaction of the defenders. That may involve driving to the basket to score or be fouled, or passing off to an open teammate.
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