Master Basketball Pivoting with Chair Drills for Explosive Moves in Attack & Counter
Goal
The Chair Pivot Drill focuses on improving pivoting skills, an essential component of a player’s ability to attack the basket, counter defenders, and secure rebounds outside of their designated area. By mastering various pivots and counters, players develop the ability to create space, protect the ball, and make quick decisions in high-pressure situations.
Setup
Players Needed: 4 players (1 shooter, 1 rebounder, 2 ball handlers)
Equipment Needed: 2 chairs, 2 basketballs
Positioning:
Place one chair on each side of the court, just above the block.
Player 1 (shooter) starts under the hoop.
Player 2 (rebounder) stands by the hoop to catch the rebound.
Players 3 and 4 stand by the chairs with basketballs, ready to replace the balls after each shot.
Step-by-Step Execution
Start Position:
Player 1 begins under the hoop.
Player 1 sprints to the first chair, jump stops, and grabs the ball, getting into a triple-threat position.
Performing the Pivot:
Player 1 performs a pivot from the list of pivots (detailed below) and immediately finishes the shot at the basket.
After the shot, Player 1 sprints to the opposite chair and repeats the pivoting sequence.
Rebound and Reset:
Player 2 rebounds the shot, and Players 3 and 4 replace the balls in the chairs for the next round.
Continue Reps:
Player 1 continues performing the same pivot and scoring until they reach a set number of shots (10) or a set time (1:00).
After the drill, players switch roles and repeat the process.
Pivots to Practice
During this drill, players should focus on mastering the following pivot types:
Front Pivot - Baseline Foot
Front Pivot - Top Foot
Inside Pivot - Baseline Foot
Inside Pivot - Top Foot
Drop Step - Baseline Foot
Drop Step - Top Foot
Front Pivot, Step Thru - Baseline Foot
Front Pivot, Step Thru - Top Foot
Drop Step, Inside Pivot - Baseline Foot
Drop Step, Inside Pivot - Top Foot
Inside Pivot, Sweep - Baseline Foot
Inside Pivot, Sweep - Top Foot
Combo Pivots
Coaching Tips
Foot Positioning:
The top foot is the foot closest to the key, while the baseline foot is the foot closest to the baseline. Ensure that players use the correct foot as the pivot foot based on the pivot type.
Focus on Balance:
Players should focus on keeping their body low, with a strong base during each pivot to maintain control and power.
Practice Speed and Efficiency:
Speed is key for these pivots, as it simulates real game situations. Emphasize that players should perform the moves quickly while maintaining control and form.
Encourage Fluidity:
Players should try to combine pivots smoothly and fluidly during the drill, avoiding hesitation when moving from one pivot to the next.
1v1 Progression:
Once players have practiced the pivots without a defender, add a defender to create more game-like pressure. This will help players get used to pivoting and scoring under defensive pressure.
Full Breakdown
The Chair Pivot Drill is an essential drill for developing footwork, pivoting skills, and rebounding ability. By incorporating various pivot techniques, players will be able to make quicker, smarter decisions when attacking the basket or responding to defenders in the paint. Here’s why this drill is effective:
Improves Post Play and Attacks:
Players who understand how to pivot efficiently will have an advantage in the post. This allows them to protect the ball, create space, and perform effective moves like step-throughs and drop steps. Pivoting also plays a major role in scoring quickly after receiving the ball in the post.
Muscle Memory and Decision Making:
Repetition of pivots builds muscle memory. Players will be able to make these moves instinctively during games, allowing them to respond to defenders with confidence and speed. By practicing different types of pivots, players also improve their decision-making skills, enabling them to choose the best option quickly—whether it’s a drop step, a shot, or a pass.
Builds Balance and Control:
A good pivot isn’t just about movement; it’s also about balance. The ability to maintain a low and stable position while pivoting ensures that the player isn’t off balance when making a move or taking a shot. This drill is effective in building both balance and control, which are vital for success in basketball.
Increases Rebounding Effectiveness:
One of the key components of this drill is working on rebounding outside of the player’s designated area. A strong rebounder is someone who can go after the ball wherever it is on the floor. This drill simulates situations where players have to extend their range and grab the ball beyond their initial position, making them more effective at securing rebounds in the paint.
Game-Like Application:
This drill is not just about footwork; it also prepares players for game situations. Players will encounter defenders who force them to pivot and make quick decisions. By practicing pivots in a controlled setting, players can transfer these skills directly to in-game situations, whether they’re finishing at the rim, protecting the ball, or resetting the offense.
Level-Specific Adjustments
Youth Players:
Start by focusing on basic front and inside pivots. Keep the drill slow and emphasize balance and body posture. As youth players gain more comfort with these pivots, you can increase the pace and introduce more complex pivot types.
High School Players:
Add complexity by including combo pivots and step-throughs. As they improve, challenge players with a defender to simulate live action and make the drill more competitive. Emphasize quick execution and decision-making when transitioning from one pivot to another.
College Players:
For advanced players, the focus should be on speed and efficiency. Introduce 1v1 defense and encourage players to combine pivots seamlessly to create scoring opportunities or break down defenders. Push them to perform the drill at game speed and work on finishing through contact.
Conclusion
The Chair Pivot Drill is an essential tool for developing the footwork and basketball IQ necessary to succeed in the paint. By mastering these pivots and integrating them into game situations, players will be better equipped to handle defenders and create scoring opportunities. Consistent practice of this drill will lead to improvements in footwork, rebounding, and finishing at the rim, making it a must-have in any player’s training regimen.
