Basketball 1-2 Stop Drills

Basketball 1-2 Stop Drills
Photo Credit basketball court image by Warren Millar from Fotolia.com

1-2 stop drills involve a maneuver -- two quick steps and a stop -- that help to improve your shooting accuracy and basketball dribbling techniques. Mastering the footwork of the stop drills improves your ability to move around defensive players with control of the ball.

1-2 Stop Dribbling Drill

1-2 stop dribbling drills help you to maintain control of the basketball while coming to a complete stop. The proper technique involves keeping your dribble below your knees while standing in a stationary position of the 1-2 stop drill. Stand on the baseline of the basketball court. Bounce the ball with your dominant hand to start your dribble. Take two quick steps forward, then stop. The online site We Play advises spreading your feet shoulder-width apart while keeping your head facing forward. Bend your knees to keep your dribble low. Continue the 1-2 stop drill down the length of the basketball court. This low dribbling technique will allow you to maintain control of the ball while on offense.

1-2 Stop Pivot Drill

Pivoting, with one foot planted while other one moves, remains an essential technique for setting up a pass or shot. The 1-2 stop pivot drills help you to master the pivoting technique to avoid penalties in official game play. Stand on the court baseline. Take two quick steps forward and stop. Plant your left foot on the court, while swinging your shoulders forward, to perform a pivot with your left foot front. Break Through Basketball recommends performing variations of the pivot while performing the 1-2 stop drill. Other pivots include the right-foot front pivot and the left- and right-foot back pivot. Swing your shoulders backwards during the back-pivot technique.

1-2 Stop Shooting Drill

Attempting to make a running shot will often cause you to lose control of the ball. The 1-2 stop drills help you to maintain a balanced stance while shooting the ball. Enlist the assistance of a fellow player or coach. Take a position on the basketball court close to the goal. Perform two quick steps forward and plant your feet. Catch the ball as your teammate or coach passes it in your direction. Pivot off your left or right foot to face the goal. Shoot the ball towards the square marked on the backboard. Practice the 1-2 stop shooting drills in varied positions on the basketball court.

References

Article reviewed by Jeannette Belliveau Last updated on: Oct 13, 2010

Must see: Photo Galleries

Member Comments