How to Make a Reverse Layup in Basketball

Defenders on your side of the court? Go for a reverse layup.

Layups in basketball are about as predictable as boxing out for a rebound. Defenders know that when ballhandlers are heading to the basket, their goal is to make a layup. But the path to the hoop and under the basket can get quite crowded. Dribbling to the other side for a reverse layup is a great way to avoid the traffic and potential shot-blockers.

Instructions

1. Assess the defense. If a defender is poised near the basket on your side of the court, go for a reverse layup.

2. 

   Dribble quickly toward the other side of the basket with the left hand if you're coming from the right side. Do the same with the right hand if you're dribbling in from the left side.

3. Screen any defenders coming toward you with your off hand and dribble as close to the basket as possible as you drive by it. Shielding defenders on your side of the court with the rim and net will prevent them from blocking the shot.

4. 

   Remain balanced and raise your body and arm up high as you reach the other side of the basket. Jump off your right foot if shooting with your right hand and jump off the left foot if shooting with the left hand.

5. Put the ball softly off the backboard or lay it in the basket without the backboard if you are able to turn your body around to face the basket and there are no defenders behind you.

Tips & Warnings

• Watch out for defenders coming in from the weak side. If defenders race in when you reach the other side of the basket, think quickly and pass the ball off to a teammate. Those defenders moving toward you have left somebody open.

• Are you a high leaper? Then avoid jamming your hand or the rim. You can break a finger or two that way.

Resources

• Reverse layup