The pivot is a key concept in basketball. In fact, centers in basketball use this move so often that they are commonly referred to as the "pivot." However, all players use this maneuver. A player pivots when he keeps one foot still and turns in any direction with his other foot. Often the player who pivots will throw in a series of ball fakes to throw defenders off.
Established Foot
Once a pivot foot is established, a player cannot change to pivot on his other foot. There are two basic pivots in basketball--the forward pivot, or front turn, and the "drop step" or reverse turn.
Traveling
When a player stops his dribble, he can only move one foot. The one that stays on the floor becomes his pivot foot. Once a player establishes a pivot foot, he cannot lift it prior to releasing the ball for dribbling. If he does so, it is a traveling violation. This violation causes a ball turnover. The ball is given to the other team at the sideline closest to the spot of the violation.
Passing and Shooting
When a player attempts to pass or to take a shot, he is allowed to lift the pivot foot. However, this is only true if he releases the ball before the pivot foot touches the floor again. If the player jumps, the ball has to be released before either foot touches the floor.
