Comments on: How to Do a Spin Move in Basketball

on 3/30/2006 Your body and the ball should stay in a tight package in the spin; in as small an envelope (figure #3 suggests the ball can be at a slight distance from your torso- this is asking for trouble) as possible. The more compact the area you use to execute your move on the floor spinning past your defender, (1) the greater success you will have executing; i.e., the harder it will be for the defense to stop you. Also,
(2), in reality, the closer you are to the defender when you pivot, the harder it will be to defend (suggest 2 ft., not 4 ft.).
(3) Don't focus on the ball as you spin, that will a) slow your spin, b) make it harder to balance, and c) you need to focus on the footwork of the defender / defense ahead in your path.

Note a "Tip" clarification:
Formally, there are only 7 moves off-the-dribble in basketball. Under "*Tips" you have included reversing direction on this move halfway around as a variation of the Spin Move. This is formally another move altogether to basketball purists -- it was one of MJ's favorite moves (along with the "inside- out") and the two moves are known as the "Spin Move" and the "Fake Spin Move"; two of the original 7 basketball moves.

on 11/22/2005 Spin with the ball under your right hand, once you are almost turned around, bounce it into your left hand. Make sure you don't carry. This is better if you are far from the basket and will be dribbling more. If you are right under the basket, it is better to do it the normal way.

on 11/22/2005 If you're dribbling with your right hand, pivot with your left foot and spin right (clockwise if forward is 12 o'clock).

If you're dribbling with your left hand, pivot with your right foot and spin left (counterclockwise).

on 11/22/2005 You could also try a fake spin after you performed a successful one on the same defender. Turn halfway then dribble, then turn the other way.

on 11/22/2005 To do it quick, simply bend your knees. Remember: Don't carry the ball and don't go into the defender. You will have a nice spin move. I'm a center and I play point guard sometimes because I spin around my defender and get some open space to do things.

on 11/22/2005 When in the process of spinning, DO NOT cradle the ball in your hands. This is called a carry and will result in a turnover.

on 11/22/2005 Some coaches will require you not to switch hands until after you have completed the spins.

on 11/22/2005 Remember to always look at your defender, and never the ball. The second you look at the ball is the second the ball will be stolen from you

on 11/22/2005 Alright start off with the ball and make sure you are crouched. Dribble back and forth slowly. When your defender swipes at your slow dribbling, do a spin move and drive to the rack for 2 points.