Excellent content ty coach!!! I have a group that needs alot of work and really do think these drills will get them on the right path to be defensively sound.
i enjoy this first closeout drill and use a 3 cone variation of it for my younger players...i kinda disagree with the way they turn away from the offensive player as they get back to the middle though, my preference is that they keep that player in sight (using more of a back pedal) to prevent cuts to the rim...
I always teach to closeout with one hand up and one to stop the pass or the cross step. And force the offensive player to one side right away. Two hands up gives with feet next to each other give the offensive player two directions, I like to give them one which we choose for them. We never give up the middle, always force to the side.
I think timing yout steps is alot better than closing out. I've been able to destroy anyone that closes out on me. But the players that come at me with a low firm long steady step, they are harder to beat of the dribble. Bc they always have one foot still on the ground. Closing out is a thing of the past. Plus u ant move side to side fast with your hands up. They must be down to move faster.
Why do some.of my HS kids not give 100% or give that vibe that it's goofy. Lol like you said not closing out not hard enough They have been pulling it together as time going by
