Top 3
Baseline out-of-bounds play designed to free up the inbounder for a clean top-of-the-key three.
A competitive 3-on-3 drill that rewards scoring and stopping, perfect for teaching game-like transitions, communication, and intensity in small-sided play.
3-on-3 Cutthroat is a great small-sided, game-like drill that can be incorporated into every practice and can be used with almost any age level.
A fast, competitive small sided game that teaches players to make quick decisions, communicate, and play with purpose.
Form three teams of three players. Two teams play live 3-on-3 while the third team waits on the sideline. Play begins with a coach pass or a simple check at the top. Games are short—usually one possession or “score stays, loser off.” When the possession ends, the losing team rotates out and the waiting team comes in immediately.
Keep the rules simple so the game stays fast. Good possessions earn the right to stay on the floor, which keeps the intensity high. Encourage players to move with purpose, use quick actions, and communicate on both ends. The rotation speed and decision making carry over from pressure games like 3-on-3 No Dribble where players learn to cut and move without overhandling.
Vary the scoring rules to shape emphasis. You can reward paint touches just like in 3-on-3 Must Touch the Paint, or add bonus points for drive-and-kick actions similar to 3-on-3 Drive & Kick Decision. Keep rounds short so every team gets multiple fast reps.
• Add a paint-touch requirement before shooting
• Bonus point for assisted baskets
• Limit dribbles to increase ball movement
• Make games “first to 2” to increase urgency
• Cut hard and fill empty space with purpose
• Communicate early on defense
• Make quick, simple decisions with the ball
• Sprint into each new possession
3-on-3 Cutthroat blends competition, speed, and decision making in a format players love. The short possessions force quick reads, communication, and constant movement, helping players learn skills that transfer directly to real games. The 3-on-3 Cutthroat drill is one of the most effective ways to develop game IQ in youth basketball.
3-on-3 Cutthroat is one of our absolute favorite small-sided practice drills. It can be tweaked infinitely to teach specific game-like skills. Click here to see all 11 variations of 3-on-3 Cutthroat that you can add to your practices today.
