Players have to use precise footwork when they are on the basketball court. Knowing where you are going is a specific advantage offensive players have on every possession. However, defensive players who use the proper footwork can mitigate this situation and turn it in their favor by being decisive and efficient. Doing basic footwork drills can help you master these skills.
Combination Drill
In the combination drill, you transition from offensive attack to defensive transition. Start off with the ball at midcourt and dribble to the right corner, change direction quickly and cut in for a layup from the side. Let the ball go, backpedal quickly to the free throw line, shuffle to the left sideline and then backpedal to midcourt. From that point, shuffle to the right sideline and then sprint to the spot under the basket where you left the basketball.
Dribble and Slide Drill
Two players can do this drill at the same time. Player one starts off at the near baseline with the ball. He dribbles as quickly as he can to the far baseline and places the ball down. Player two starts off at the far baseline and dribbles as quickly as he can to the near baseline and places the ball on the floor. Both players use the shuffle step to go back to the baseline where they started the drill from. At that point they pick up the basketball that is waiting for them and speed dribble the length of the court for a layup. Give each player a chance to do this drill three times.
X Drill
The X drill will build proper footwork, quickness and endurance. Start off under the basket and run straight out to the top of the key at full speed. Side shuffle to the right sideline and then take three quick steps backward before shuffling as quickly as you can from the right side of the court to the left. When you get to the left sideline, stop and do 10 push-ups. Go back to the starting position and do this drill three times. Make sure you do not cross your feet while you are shuffling them across court.
Benefits
Doing footwork drills will put you in a position to play consistent defense. The drills are designed to get you in a position to attack the ball if the offensive players are not taking proper care of the ball. This will allow you to turn defense into offense quickly and give your team a chance to score transition points.
Expert Insight
Keep your eyes on your opponent, but make sure you have your peripheral vision working as well. When you are playing defense, you need to be in the attack position to make a steal. That means your weight has to be on the balls of your feet. If you can steal the ball with a swipe, you have to know where your teammates are on the court in order to feed one of them a pass that can lead to a layup. "That's an aspect of playing defense that can get overlooked," said Michigan State head coach Tom Izzo. "You are guarding your man but you can go from defense to offense in an instant. You have to be prepared and know what you are going to do with the ball if you come up with it. Know where all your teammates are on the court."
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