Scissor Step Breakdown: Change Speeds to Beat Defenders
Goal
Teach players how to use the Scissor Step move to change speed and direction in isolation situations, enabling better blow-by opportunities and downhill attacks.
Setup
Start in a comfortable triple threat or live dribble position.
Use cones or markers to simulate defensive angles and finishing points.
Players should have space to operate, this move thrives in isolation or high pick-up zones.
Step-by-Step Execution
1. Master the Basic Scissor Step
Start with one foot lifted (e.g., left foot) while dribbling with the opposite hand (e.g., right).
Bounce the ball, then switch feet mid-air, left foot lands behind, right foot now forward.
Immediately attack downhill using the new lead foot as a push-off point.
Drill both sides: Left foot up → right foot forward, then switch.
2. Add Rhythm with a Reverse Bounce
Begin with a reverse dribble before the bounce.
This variation helps mask timing and makes the foot switch more deceptive.
Use this to lull defenders into a false read before exploding past them.
3. Add Counters
After switching feet:
Scissor + Crossover: Push defender one way, cross back.
Scissor + Between-the-Legs: Great for wide stance defenders.
Scissor + Behind-the-Back: Keeps ball protected.
Scissor + Hesitation Pull-Up: Freeze backpedaling defenders.
Scissor + Snatch Back: Fake attack, step back for jumper.
Coaching Tips
Cue players to stay low throughout the move.
Teach them to "sell the drive" before hitting a counter.
Use shoulders and head turns to manipulate defenders.
Perfect the timing of bounce → switch → move.
Start slow. Learn the bounce + switch timing before adding speed.
Full Breakdown
What Is the Scissor Step?
The Scissor Step is a deceptive footwork pattern used to shift defenders and change rhythm. It’s ideal for guards and wings who play in isolation or against tight man pressure. The move uses a quick foot switch after a bounce to freeze the defender before driving, pulling up, or countering.
Why It Works
Changes timing: Players momentarily pause before accelerating.
Engages the defender: The raised foot acts as a "false read."
Creates footwork advantage: Sets up either foot as a launch point.
Builds into unlimited counters: From crossovers to snatchbacks.
Progressions
Level 1: Bounce + Switch Only
Learn the bounce and scissor timing.
No counter, just bounce-switch and go.
Level 2: Add Change of Direction
Bounce-switch → cross / between / behind.
Teach how to fake with shoulder turns.
Level 3: Add Change of Pace
Go slow-slow-quick to lull then blow by.
Teach rhythm shifts, not just speed.
Level 4: Shot Creation
Bounce-switch → hesy pull-up.
Bounce-switch → snatch → jumper.
Bounce-switch → cross → step-back.
Youth Coaching Adjustments
Simplify to just bounce + switch.
Use cones to cue feet placement.
Limit counters to 1–2 options.
Reward good footwork and low posture.
High School Coaching Adjustments
Encourage players to read defender’s stance.
Mix in scissor vs help or sagging defenders.
Build progressions into live 1-on-1 drills.
Track reps by side (left-hand, right-hand starts).
Common Mistakes and Fixes
| Mistake | Fix |
|---|---|
| Feet don't switch cleanly | Break down to walking pace, rehearse slowly |
| Defender isn’t shifted | Emphasize bounce and shoulder sell |
| Too upright on attack | Keep hips low after foot switch |
| Poor timing with counters | Rebuild bounce → switch → counter rhythm |
Drill: Bounce + Switch Cone Drill
Place a cone in front.
Player stands behind with opposite foot forward.
Bounce → switch → attack toward cone.
Add counter variations once timing is sharp.
Bonus: Teaching Cues
"Float then fire."
"Bounce. Switch. Boom."
"Low footwork = high advantage."
