Last Updated on: 8th July 2023, 05:47 pm
What Is The Low Post In Basketball?
In basketball, the low post refers to the area on the court close to the basket, usually on either side of the key or the painted area near the basket. When a player is in the low post, they are positioned near the basket and are often in a good position to receive a pass and attempt a close-range shot or make a move to get past their defender and score.
The low post is often occupied by taller, stronger players, such as centers or power forwards, who can use their size and strength to gain an advantage over their opponents and score points in the paint. The low post is an important area of the court for teams to control, as it can lead to high-percentage scoring opportunities and draw fouls from defenders.
How To Play And Defend The Low Post In Basketball
Defending the low post in basketball is a crucial aspect of team defense, as it can prevent high-percentage scoring opportunities and force opponents to take more difficult shots from the perimeter. Here are some tips for defending the low post:
- Front the post: One effective way to defend the low post is to position yourself between the offensive player and the ball, denying them easy access to the ball. This is known as “fronting” the post and can force the offensive player to work harder to get open.
- Use your body: When defending the low post, it’s important to use your body to prevent the offensive player from getting into a comfortable position. This can involve using your arms to deny entry passes, using your hips to bump the offensive player off their desired spot, and using your feet to maintain good defensive positioning.
- Double-team: If the offensive player in the low post is particularly skilled or dominant, it may be necessary to double-team them with another defender. This can disrupt their rhythm and force them to pass the ball to a less dangerous player.
- Communicate: Good communication is essential when defending the low post, as it can help teammates coordinate their defensive efforts and prevent breakdowns. This can involve calling out screens, switches, and other defensive adjustments.
- Stay disciplined: Finally, it’s important to stay disciplined when defending the low post and avoid fouling the offensive player. This can involve staying on your feet, keeping your hands up, and avoiding unnecessary contact.
Low Post Basketball Drills
If you want to improve your skills in the low post in basketball, there are several drills you can do to help you develop your footwork, shooting, and overall effectiveness in the paint. Here are some low post basketball drills you can try:
- Drop step drill: This drill involves starting with your back to the basket, taking a step with your inside foot, and pivoting to face the basket for a shot. Repeat this move on both sides of the basket to develop your footwork and shooting ability.
- Mikan drill: The Mikan drill is a classic low post drill that involves shooting layups with both hands while alternating sides of the basket. This drill helps develop your footwork, shooting touch, and overall coordination.
- Post move drill: This drill involves practicing a variety of post moves, such as jump hooks, drop steps, and up-and-under moves. Start with a stationary defender and progress to a live defender to simulate game situations.
- Rebounding drill: Rebounding is a key part of playing in the low post, so it’s important to practice your rebounding skills. This can involve practicing boxing out, jumping for rebounds, and securing the ball with two hands.
- 2-on-1 drill: This drill involves two offensive players and one defender in the low post. The offensive players must work together to create scoring opportunities while the defender tries to prevent them from scoring. This drill helps develop your teamwork, decision-making, and overall low post skills.
By incorporating these low post basketball drills into your practice routine, you can improve your skills and become a more effective player in the paint.
