How it Works

Start two players on the baseline, each with a ball. Place a cone on the wing or at the free throw line extended. On your signal, both players dribble around the cone, but only one becomes the defender. Call a name as they round the cone. The player you call becomes the chaser, dropping their ball and sprinting to contest the layup. Push athletes to attack downhill with the same urgency you expect in 2-on-1 Half Court Attack. Keep reps quick and competitive like the pace you build in 5-3-1 Shooting Relay. Rotate pairs rapidly and vary the starting locations to create new angles, similar to the changing reads in 3-on-3 Must Touch the Paint.

Progression Or Variation

• Require weak hand finishes only
• Add controlled contact from the chaser
• Start players from different angles on the baseline
• Add a scoring system for makes and stops
• Use a trailing defender instead of a lateral chase

Coaching Points

• Attack the rim with speed and balance
• Protect the ball and finish through contact
• Chasers should take smart angles, not reckless swipes
• Keep eyes up as you round the cone
• Reset quickly to keep tempo high

Why This Drill Works

Chaser Layups puts players in a realistic finishing situation where pressure arrives late and at unpredictable angles. This helps athletes develop poise, body control, and confident decision making around the basket. The speed and competition translate directly to game finishing situations reinforced by the 3-on-2 basketball drive and kick drill.