Introduction

Everything starts from a standard 3-on-3 Cutthroat setup. You can view the full breakdown of 3-on-3 Cutthroat by clicking here or by watching the video below. Once you are familiar with the drill, you can then add this variation to your daily practices.

How it Works

Start with a standard 3-on-3 Cutthroat setup – but make sure to have 3 defenders in basic shell positioning:

• 1 on-ball defender (pressure)
• 1 in help (gap)
• 1 in deny.
• Begin with the passer initiating a pass to the offense.
• Defense must hold shell positioning and “jump to the ball” through 2–3 passes.
• On the coach’s signal (clap or whistle), the drill goes live into 3-on-3.
• Offense attacks immediately; defense must recover and communicate.
• Play until a score, stop, or turnover, then reset with new players.

Progression/Variation

• Let the coach call “live” mid-pass to challenge reaction time.
• Add a 4th defender who rotates in late to simulate breakdowns.
• Only allow offense to score off a paint touch or post entry.
• Rotate defenders through each role (pressure, help, deny) before switching sides.

Coaching Points

• Reinforce proper defensive positioning before going live — don’t cheat the shell.
• Teach quick transition from positioning to full-speed defense.
• Emphasize communication, tagging cutters, and help-side recovery.
• Great drill to build pride in defense while still getting live-game reps.

Why This Drill Works

Most drills separate positioning and live play — this one forces players to bridge the gap. It builds defensive instincts, communication, and mental sharpness. Shell to Live is perfect for reinforcing fundamentals while still giving your team the intensity and unpredictability of live 3-on-3 play.

Want to See More 3-on-3 Cutthroat Variations?

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.