Up the Line Finishing: Master Your Attack Angles
This high-intensity drill is essential for guards and wings looking to develop elite body control and finishing versatility in transition. Up the Line Finishing simulates a common game scenario where you must push the ball up the court, change direction at the elbow—often refusing a screen or reacting to a defender—and attack the rim with authority. By combining full-speed ball handling with varied finishing footwork, you train your body to convert difficult shots while fatigued.
How to Perform This Drill
- Setup: Start at the baseline corner with the basketball in your outside hand (sideline hand).
- Drive: Sprint dribble vertically up the sideline toward the elbow at full game speed.
- Turn: Upon reaching the elbow, execute a sharp behind-the-back dribble or a tight retreat move to "turn the corner" and face the rim.
- Attack: Explode downhill immediately out of your turn, taking a direct line to the basket.
- Finish: Cycle through three specific finishes: first, a standard layup (left foot takeoff, right hand finish); second, a short jumper or floater using the same footwork; and third, an inside-hand finish (scoop or reverse).
- Repeat: Aim for 15 total makes on one side before switching to the opposite sideline and reversing your hands and footwork.
Why This Drill Works
In basketball, straight-line drives are easily stopped by help defense; elite scorers must master angular attacks. This drill forces you to decelerate instantly at the elbow, flip your hips, and re-accelerate, which mimics the biomechanics required to beat a defender who cuts you off. Furthermore, by mandating specific footwork and hand variations (overhand, jump shot, inside hand), you build the "finishing package" necessary to score over shot blockers, regardless of your angle or defensive pressure.
Pro Tips
- Change Gears: Don't play at one speed. Sprint to the elbow, chop your feet to decelerate for the turn, and then burst explosively to the rim. The change of pace beats the defense.
- Tight Turn: When you make your move at the elbow, keep the ball tight to your body. A wide dribble allows a defender to swipe the ball; keep it within your "cylinder."
- Eyes Up: As soon as you turn the corner, get your eyes on the rim. Early target acquisition improves your shooting percentage and helps you spot help defenders.
- Game Reality: Imagine a defender on your hip as you drive. Use your off-arm to protect the ball and simulate absorbing contact on the finish.
