Blocking Technique Drill

Instructions

1. 1A1 drives in from the left; D1 shuffles to position between A1 and goal.
2. 2A1 takes a jump shot; D1 extends both arms straight up to block.
3. 3Ball passes to A2 on the right; D1 shuffles quickly to reposition.
4. 4A2 takes a standing shot; D1 reads the shoulder and times the block.
5. 5Ball returns to A1; D1 repositions again with quick shuffle steps.
6. 6A1 takes a spin shot; D1 contests with hands open and jumps straight up.

Coaching Points

• Jump straight up, never toward the shooter — moving forward causes the foul
• Extend both arms fully on the jump; a bent elbow cuts your blocking surface in half
• Keep your hands open and spread wide — closed fists reduce coverage area significantly
• Read the shooter's shoulder rotation to time your jump — don't jump on the wind-up fake
• Reposition between shooters with quick shuffle steps; crossing your feet leaves you off-balance

Common Mistakes

• Jumping toward the shooter instead of straight up, causing a blocking foul
• Bending elbows during the block, reducing the blocking surface area
• Jumping on the wind-up fake and landing before the actual shot
• Closing fists instead of keeping hands open and spread wide
• Crossing feet when repositioning between shooters, losing balance