Zone Break
A simple zone offense that uses ball reversal and timed cuts to collapse a 2-3 defense for layups or post-ups.
A 3-on-3 drill that turns every rebound into a transition opportunity, building toughness, outlet skills, and competitive energy.
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.
Play live 3-on-3 with a focus on finishing each defensive stand with a clean rebound and outlet. Start each possession with a coach shot or a live action that leads to a miss. All three defenders must fight for position, secure the rebound on two feet, and make a quick outlet pass to a designated outlet spot or player.
Once the outlet is made, the possession continues live the other direction. Offense can score in transition or slow it down into half-court play. These fast decisions mirror the advantage moments players experience in 3-on-3 Cutthroat, where quick transitions create natural scoring chances.
If the offense scores or the defense forces another miss, reset and start again with another live shot or pass from the coach. The physicality and quick outlets connect well with decision-making drills like 3-on-3 Drive & Kick Decision, and the continuous movement supports spacing concepts from 3-on-3 Pass, Cut & Replace.
• Require two consecutive outlets before scoring counts
• Add a bonus point for fast-break scores
• Limit the outlet receiver to one dribble
• Start every rep with a contested rebound battle
• Rebound on two feet with strong hands
• Chin the ball before turning to outlet
• Call the outlet early to help the rebounder
• Sprint the floor after securing the ball
3-on-3 Rebound & Outlet builds toughness, awareness, and transition habits. Players learn how to secure rebounds under pressure, communicate quickly, and turn defense into offense with clean outlets. The 3-on-3 Rebound & Outlet drill is an effective way to teach youth players complete possession awareness.
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.
