The Lay Up

In this video, you will learn how to do a lay-up. Used very often in games, the lay-up is the easiest way to score as it is the shot taken closest to the basket.

To shoot a good lay-up, work on these two steps: Jumping and Releasing the ball.

First, Jumping

The lay-up is a running shot, as you're shooting in the movement after a dribble.

Dribble to one side of the basket, using your outside hand so as to keep the ball out of your opponent's reach.

Take the ball in both hands to start the lay-up, keeping it near your hip to protect it from your opponent.

If you're shooting from the right of the basket, step forward onto your right foot first.

Push off with this foot to take a big step forward without losing any speed.

Put your left foot on the floor.

Push off with the left foot to jump, raising your right knee in towards your chest to gain height.

For a strong take off, your foot should be within the key.

If you take your first step too soon, you will be too far from the basket when you jump.

If you step too late, you will lose all your speed and won't jump high enough.

Secondly, Releasing the ball.

As you jump towards the basket, lift your right hand towards the hoop.

Hold the ball from beneath, with your fingers pointing forwards to do a lay-up.

You can also try a push-up, by placing your hand beneath the ball with your fingers pointing upwards, as for a classic throw.

Release the ball at the highest point of your jump.

Aim for the top right corner of the square on the backboard and you will almost certainly score.

If you're shooting from the left side of the basket, take the first step with your left foot and the second with your right, and shoot with your left hand.

You can also do a lay-up facing the basket. To do this, you'll need to shoot without hitting the backboard.

To master lay-ups and get used to protecting the ball, try practicing against a defender and shooting from both sides of the basket. Over to you!