How to Make a Layup

Making a layup (a close-range shot on the run) is one of the easiest ways to score points. These instructions describe a right-handed layup; reverse them if you're a lefty.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Basketballs
• Basketballs

1. Stand at the far right-hand edge of the free throw line.

2. Dribble the ball with your right hand.

3. Concentrate on the shooting square painted on the backboard. The upper-right corner is most important.

4. Approach the basket slowly, dribbling the ball.

5. Stop dribbling when you're 5 to 8 feet from the basket.

6. Pick up the ball while you're stepping with your right foot.

7. Take another step and plant your left foot, then jump off it.

8. Bring your right knee up toward your chest as you jump.

9. Aim for the upper-right corner of the box on the backboard.

10. Shoot the ball with your right hand.

11. Practice approaching the basket faster and faster until you're running toward it.

Tips & Warnings

• Smoothness is the key. Pick up the ball, take your step, jump and shoot in one fluid motion.
• If you have trouble running and banking the ball off the backboard first practice shooting while standing 3 to 4 feet from the basket.
• Practice both left- and right-handed layups. It will be more difficult with your weaker hand, but worth the effort come game time.
• If you have any condition that would impair or limit your ability to engage in physical activity, please consult a physician before attempting this activity.

Who Can Help:

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on 8/25/2006 When driving to the hoop, take extra large steps so the defenders can foul you while in the shooting process. It also helps get pass the D.

on 8/8/2006 If you want to make a layup look flashy, or you just need to do it, you can try the between the legs lay up.

on 8/8/2006 Once you get set to take your first step, cradle the ball with your shooting hand on top and other hand on the bottom, while ducking your head and getting low to split the defense. As you are planting your foot to go up, start bringing the ball out. At the top of your jump, lay it up, preferably a finger roll off the backboard as you are starting low. This is much easier if you have a good vert/long arms, as you can quickly get from down low to high enough to just flick it off the backboard and into the net. You can even throw it up underhanded if you beat the defense and there's no risk of it getting swatted.

This move helps a lot because it keeps you from getting stripped, and if they do reach for the ball it will almost always be a foul.

on 6/30/2006 If you want to control your velocity, use the first step to reduce your velocity. This step has to be longer than the second step that will be used to jump.

on 11/22/2005 If you're going in for a layup and a defender is between you and the basket, then pick the ball up and sort of cock it back a little bit, that way if your path gets blocked you can go for the under arm finger roll or reverse layup. It also looks cool if you can't dunk.