Master the Fat Block Bank Shooting Off the Dribble
This drill is an essential builder for players of all positions who want to develop a soft touch around the rim while mastering footwork under pressure. By combining agility, ball-handling, and the often-underutilized bank shot, this exercise simulates the chaotic nature of securing a rebound and immediately transitioning into a scoring threat. Whether you are a guard creating space or a forward facing up, this drill will sharpen your ability to stop on a dime and finish with high-percentage accuracy.
How to Perform This Drill
- Setup: Position yourself on the "fat" part of the block (the wide rectangular mark on the lane line) on either the right or left side of the paint.
- Initiate: Toss the ball off the backboard to simulate a rebound, jump to secure it with two hands, and "chin" the ball strong to protect it.
- Explode: Immediately sprint out of the post area with a hard, aggressive dribble, simulating an escape from defensive pressure.
- Pivot: Come to a controlled jump stop or stride stop, then execute a sharp front pivot to square your shoulders back toward the basket.
- Shoot: Rise up in rhythm and take a bank shot, aiming for the top corner of the square on the backboard.
- Repeat: Execute 10 shots starting from the right block, then switch sides and execute 10 shots from the left block for a total of 20 reps.
Why This Drill Works
The Fat Block Bank Shooting drill bridges the gap between stationary shooting and game-speed execution. By forcing you to sprint and dribble before the shot, it elevates your heart rate and challenges your ability to control your momentum—a critical skill for scoring in transition or off the dribble. The emphasis on the front pivot teaches you how to create separation from a defender without traveling, while the bank shot focus reinforces the geometry of the court, training you to utilize the backboard for higher-percentage finishes in the mid-range.
Pro Tips
- Kill Your Momentum: When you stop to pivot, drop your hips and lower your center of gravity. If you are drifting while you shoot, your accuracy will suffer.
- Eyes on the Target: Locate your target spot on the glass early—before you even finish your pivot. This visual connection is key to consistent bank shooting.
- Game Speed Only: Don't casually jog the dribble out. Explode as if a defender is swiping at the ball. If you practice slow, you play slow.
- High Release Point: Even though you are using the glass, maintain a high release point to prevent defenders from blocking your view or the ball.