The layup is a high percentage shot. The difficulty comes in getting close to the basket in order to make the shot.
The layup involves a jump towards the basket from the side, with the ball being played off the backboard and into the basket.
Layup: Stage 1
Use this practice to teach where on the backboard the ball needs to be played to in order to make the basket;
Stand to the side of the hoop;
Aim at the corner of the inner square on the backboard;
The ball should bounce off the backboard and into the basket;
Repeat until the player is successful every time.
Layup: Stage 2
Progression from previous exercise when players have mastered where on the backboard to shoot and the correct pace;
Stand 2 paces further away, on the diagonal;
Take two paces and a jump towards the basket;
Shoot to the same place on the backboard with the required pace;
Note: the ball should be placed on the backboard and not pushed hard with the shot. The power and placement comes from the jump. The close to the backboard / basket that the player gets, the greater the chance that the ball will go in.
Layup: Stage 3
Progression from the previous drill;
Players start further from the basket on the diagonal;
Players are required to dribble before the jump to layup;