The term "finisher" in basketball conjures up images of some of the best players in the sport's history. Michael Jordan was perhaps the game's best finisher because he was able to break down defenses with his hard drives and then score around the rim. Julius Erving was another legendary finisher for the New York Nets and the Philadelphia 76ers. When you are a finisher, your skill level is supremely high and your self-confidence is even higher.
Step 1
Develop your ball handling skills thoroughly. If you can't dribble the ball with ease you won't be able to take advantage of soft spots in the defense. Work on your straight-ahead dribble, cross-over dribble and your behind the back dribble. Work on your off-hand dribble. All off these dribbling techniques will help you get open for scoring opportunities near the hoop.
Step 2
Learn how to ball fake. When you are an outstanding finisher, you want to get the defender off his feet so you can explode to the basket. By faking in one direction and moving in the other, you can do just that. However, you have to do it with passion or the defender won't buy the fake.
Step 3
Get in the passing lanes when playing defense. Determine where the offensive player is going to pass the ball and get your arm out so you can get a piece of the ball and deflect it up-court. While you are streaking up-court to retrieve the ball, you have broken in front of the pack. Take the ball to the hoop and keep your focus on the spot where you will lay the ball off the backboard. Being a finisher means creating those outstanding scoring opportunities and not letting them slip away by blowing the layup or dunk.
Step 4
Take the ball hard to the basket. Finishers have to look for weak spots in the defense. You have to realize that the percentages are in your favor when you can take the ball to the basket for a dunk or a layup. This requires aggressiveness and confidence along with recognition. Look for the openings and take advantage of them quickly.
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