Basketball Rip-Through Workout for Guards and Wings

The workout: This intermediate basketball rip-through workout contains four distinct blocks that structure training from catch footwork to dynamic finishes. The session lists eight drills to practice establishing a pivot foot, sweeping the ball, and executing clean pickups. Players are recommended to observe their balance on jump stops and verify their ball path on sweeps during each drill. Following this sequence allows players to perform specific repetition doses and utilize objective coaching cues on the court.

Practicing a basketball rip-through workout involves executing specific footwork and maintaining body control upon catching the ball. This intermediate session lists drills to practice establishing a pivot foot, maintaining a low center of gravity, and executing clean pickups. The drills recommend that players observe their balance on jump stops and verify their ball path on sweeps. By repeating these actions, players practice the technical elements of the catch, the rip-through path, and the final layup or shot. This structured sequence provides a clear progression of movements across four separate blocks.

1

Catch Readiness and Footwork

4 min · This block contains drills to practice initial catch footwork and balanced landing positions. Players should observe their balance on jump stops.

1. Hop downs3 sets of 10 repsLand softly on both feet simultaneously with your hips dropped and hands ready to catch.
2. Various lay up footwork of the catch10 finishes each sideCatch the ball on a jump stop, then explode upward off your inside foot to finish.

2

Rip Footwork and Pullups

6 min · This block lists drills focusing on outside foot pivots and low sweeps. Players should observe their shoulder alignment and sweep height.

1. Outside Foot Pivot And Shot12 shots from mid-rangePlant your outside foot hard, pivot toward the rim, and rise straight up for your shot.
2. Rip Thru Jump Shots15 rip shotsSweep the ball violently below your knees as you step past the imaginary defender to shoot.

3

Inside Pivot and Low Finishes

6 min · This block contains drills to practice inside pivots and low pickups. Players should verify their ball height during the drive.

1. Inside Foot Pivot And Shot12 shots from mid-rangeEstablish your inside foot as the pivot, turn your shoulders to the hoop, and shoot.
2. Low pick up lay up10 layups each sideKeep the ball below your waist during the drive, then lift it quickly at the rim.

4

Power Stops and Counter Moves

4 min · This block lists drills to practice power stops and lateral change-of-direction movements. Players should observe their foot placement and balance.

1. Power Stop Pump Fake8 reps each sideLand on both feet in a balanced power stop, chin the ball, and execute a quick fake.
2. Eurostep10 reps alternating sidesTake a wide lateral step in one direction, then jump back to the opposite side to finish.

How to progress

Use completion of every listed dose while following the observable drill cues as a self-check. If a player cannot complete the listed dose with those cues, repeat the same dose before adding speed, repetitions, or resistance. This is a practice recommendation, not a guarantee of readiness or results. Players can self-check their completion of doses and follow the cues during each block session.

This workout is one piece of a bigger plan — see how to build a full basketball training program around it.