Master the Hesi Pull-Up: Create Space and Score
The hesitation (hesi) pull-up is one of the most lethal scoring moves in modern basketball, utilized by elite guards to freeze defenders in their tracks. This drill focuses on combining advanced ball-handling with game-speed shooting mechanics, specifically designed for players who need to create their own offense off the dribble. By mastering the ability to change pace and manipulate defensive timing, you will open up clean shooting windows even against tight pressure.
How to Perform This Drill
- Setup: Start at the wing or top of the key with a self-toss or a live dribble entry to simulate a game-like isolation scenario.
- Attack: Drive hard downhill toward the elbow or free-throw line extended, pushing the ball out with aggressive intent.
- Hesitate: Execute the "hesi" by slightly raising your body, glancing at the rim, and floating the ball—selling the drive or shot to freeze your defender.
- Gather: Instead of continuing the drive, quickly snap the ball into your shooting pocket while maintaining perfect balance.
- Execute: Elevate vertically into your jump shot, focusing on a quick release and a high follow-through.
- Reset: Chase your rebound, retreat to the opposite wing, and immediately attack again, alternating between pull-up jumpers and explosive drives to the rim.
Why This Drill Works
In high-level basketball, you rarely get open shots simply by standing still; you must manufacture space. This drill works because it trains you to disrupt the defender's rhythm. By changing speeds—going from fast to slow and back to fast—you force the defense to relax or freeze, buying you the split-second needed to get your shot off uncontested. It also conditions your lower body to transition instantly from a horizontal drive to vertical lift, a critical component of shooting consistency.
Pro Tips
- Sell with your eyes: You must look at the rim during the hesitation; if your eyes stay on the floor, the defender will know you aren't ready to shoot and won't bite on the fake.
- Watch your hand placement: Keep your hand on top or slightly behind the ball during the "float" phase. Do not let your hand slide underneath the ball, or the referee will call a carry.
- Stay on balance: Avoid leaning forward or drifting sideways on the pull-up; your goal is to stop on a dime and jump straight up and down to maximize accuracy.
- Mix it up: Once you establish the shot, use the same hesitation setup but explode past the defender for a layup to keep them guessing.