Master the 1-on-1 Closeout Drill: Teach Better Defensive Pressure in Basketball
Setup:
You’ll need at least 2 players.
One defender begins under the basket.
One offensive player begins at the wing, with a coach or passer at the top of the key.
Coach/passer has the basketball.
Execution:
Coach initiates the drill by passing the ball to the offensive player on the wing.
Defender sprints from under the rim to close out on the ball handler.
Emphasize choppy steps and high hands during the final steps of the closeout.
Defender should break down into a defensive stance to prevent a blow-by.
Live 1-on-1 play begins on the catch. Offense has a limited number of dribbles (typically 2 or 3).
Defender works to contain the drive without fouling and force a tough shot.
On the finish or stop, rotate players through each position.
Coaching Points:
Choppy Closeout Steps: Teach defenders to slow down as they approach the ball to avoid getting beat on the first step.
High Hands: Force the offense to think pass or drive—not a quick shot.
Active Feet, No Flat-Footedness: Defenders should stay on the balls of their feet, ready to slide in either direction.
Angle of Closeout: Close the gap between the defender and shooter in a “banana” arc, not a straight line to avoid blow-by angles.
Why This Drill Works:
This drill sharpens defensive reactions and closeout angles in a game-like environment. By forcing a defender to sprint, react, and then play 1-on-1 live defense, players learn to:
Close space quickly without fouling.
Control momentum and contest shots.
Improve on-ball defense in isolation.
Progressions & Variations:
Limit the dribbles to 1 or 2 to force quicker offensive decisions.
Closeout to different spots (corner, top of key) to train situational reactions.
Add a rebound component: After shot attempt, drill continues into live rebounding and outlet or putback.
Drill Benefits:
Builds defensive urgency and competitive intensity.
Improves 1-on-1 containment and help-side awareness.
Conditions players with realistic sprint-closeout-recover patterns.
Ideal for youth, high school, and college programs alike.
Final Takeaway:
If you're looking to improve defensive effort, closeout technique, and competitive edge, the 1-on-1 Closeout Drill should be a staple in your practices. It teaches the fundamental skill of contesting shots under pressure—something every successful defender must master.
Integrate this drill weekly and rotate through multiple offensive angles. Pair it with your shell defense drills or use it in early-season conditioning. The result? Smarter, faster, and tougher defenders.
