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

Play standard 3-on-3 Cutthroat, but with one key rule: a paint touch is required before any shot can be taken.

• Start with a check at the top.
• Offense must get the ball into the paint — via drive or pass — before a shot is allowed.
• If a shot is taken without a paint touch, it’s an automatic turnover.
• Defense plays live and can collapse, rotate, and recover as usual.
• Reset after each possession and rotate teams or keep winner stays.

Progression/Variation

• Require two paint touches before a shot.
• Add a shot clock to create urgency.
• Reward teams for paint touch + kick-out three combinations.
• If players struggle to get to the paint, allow limited dribbles to encourage movement.

Coaching Points

• Emphasize driving with purpose and reading the help defender.
• Teach players to collapse the defense and then look to kick or finish.
• Reinforce spacing — create lanes for easy paint access.
• Build habits around touching the paint = good things happen.

Why This Drill Works

Paint touches are one of the best predictors of offensive success. This drill builds that habit through live play, helping players attack with purpose, recognize help, and make smart decisions after getting into the lane. It’s a simple but powerful rule that transforms how your team plays offense.

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.