Pistol Action: A Dynamic Team Shooting Drill for College & NBA-Level Offenses
Goal
The Pistol Action Team Shooting Drill is designed to simulate an offensive play used at the college and NBA levels. This drill incorporates the drag screen, lift, and dribble handoff, which forces the point guard to create space and adjust to the defense. By practicing the drill, players improve their ability to shoot under pressure, make quick decisions, and execute complex team movements that mimic game situations.
Setup
Players Needed: 5 players (1 point guard, 1 shooting guard, 2 wings, 1 big man).
Court Setup:
Player 1 (point guard) starts with the ball.
Player 2 (shooting guard) starts in the corner.
Player 3 (wing) starts at the top of the key.
Player 4 (big man) starts near the top of the key or free throw line.
Spacing: The spacing should resemble that of a typical offensive set with four players spread out, allowing room for the dribble handoff and screen action.
Step-by-Step Execution
Sprint to the Corner: Player 2 (shooting guard) sprints to the corner, preparing for the action.
Dribble Handoff: Player 1 (point guard) dribbles towards Player 2 and executes a dribble handoff, allowing Player 2 to catch the ball while moving in the direction of the basket.
Drift to the Corner: After the handoff, Player 1 (point guard) drifts to the corner, ready to either shoot or make the next pass.
Set the Screen: Player 4 (big man) sprints to set a screen for Player 2. The screen should be set at the top of the key, helping Player 2 create space for a shot or attack.
Roll to the Basket: After setting the screen, Player 4 rolls to the basket. Player 2 passes to Player 4 for a potential layup or dunk.
Drift to the Top: While Player 4 is attacking the basket, Player 1 (point guard) drifts towards the top of the key to position for a shot or next action.
Pass for a 3-Point Attempt: Player 3 (wing) passes to Player 1 at the top of the key, who then takes a 3-point shot.
Coaching Tips
Point Guard Decision-Making: The point guard (Player 1) must read the defense during the dribble handoff. If the defense overplays the handoff, the point guard needs to be ready to lift, creating space for a potential shot or playmaking opportunity.
Screen Set by Player 4: The big man (Player 4) should set a solid screen to free up Player 2 for the dribble handoff. Once the screen is set, Player 4 must roll quickly to the basket, being ready for the pass and finish.
Spacing is Key: Ensure that players maintain proper spacing throughout the drill. The point guard should drift to the corner to create space, while the wing (Player 3) needs to be ready to make the pass to the top of the key for the shot.
Shooting Under Pressure: Encourage Player 1 to take the 3-point shot under game-like pressure. The lift and the movement should simulate real in-game shooting situations, with a defender likely closing out or defending the screen.
Repetition and Pace: Repeating this drill with quick transitions helps players develop game-speed decision-making. Practice the action multiple times, ensuring that players understand when to make the dribble handoff, when to lift, and how to execute the screen and roll.
Improve Dribble Handoffs: Focus on the precision of the dribble handoff. The point guard should be able to deliver a quick, accurate handoff while reading the defense. The receiving player (Player 2) should catch and shoot or attack immediately, depending on the defensive coverage.
Full Breakdown
The Pistol Action Team Shooting Drill is a fast-paced, dynamic exercise designed to improve shooting, ball movement, and decision-making in transition. The drill uses the drag screen, a key element of many high-level offenses, combined with the dribble handoff and lift movement. These actions simulate real-game situations where the point guard must read the defense and create space for teammates to attack the basket or get open for a shot.
The point guard’s role in the drill is critical, as they must be able to make quick decisions when the dribble handoff is defended, whether by lifting for a shot or creating space for a pass. The big man’s role in the screen-and-roll action provides opportunities for easy finishes at the rim, while the wings work to stretch the defense and provide passing lanes for the point guard.
By practicing this drill, players develop the necessary skills to attack defenses using quick ball movement, screens, and off-the-ball cuts. The combination of dribble handoffs, screens, and lifts helps players understand how to generate open shots in a fast-paced offense. The drill also emphasizes the importance of reading the defense, timing the screen, and finishing with confidence.
In addition to developing the offensive flow, the Pistol Action Team Shooting Drill helps players improve their shooting in transition. The fast-paced nature of the drill forces players to take shots on the move, simulating in-game conditions where they need to be ready for open shots quickly. This drill enhances shooting accuracy and confidence under pressure.
Conclusion
The Pistol Action Team Shooting Drill is a valuable addition to any team’s offensive development. By incorporating drag screens, dribble handoffs, and shooting on the move, players can improve their decision-making, ball movement, and shooting skills in transition. Whether you are coaching at the high school, college, or professional level, this drill helps players read the defense, make quick passes, and capitalize on open shot opportunities. Practice it regularly to see a significant improvement in your team's offensive efficiency and execution.
