In basketball a lay up is a very important shot to be able to master, mainly as it is the easiest way to convert. The reason the lay up is such an easy shot to make is because when you release the ball you are as close to the rim as you can possibly get during a game. It is for that reason that is is crucial to master the layup if you are looking to improve your game.
Here is a basic written tutorial to take you through the steps of a layup:
- The first initial phase is the run-up but if you are a complete beginner it would be best to start doing it at a walking pace. First you dribble towards the basket at an angle of roughly 45 degrees to the backboard at a walking/running pace. It would be best to do this from the halfway so you can get enough of a run-up.
- The second phase is what I personally call the "step jump." When you reach the line of the key this is where you take your two steps of the layup. You take your first "step," then your second, but you have to "jump" off the second step, so the second foot you land on is the one you will be jumping off.
- The third phase is the shot. This is where you need to get your timing right. As you jump you take the shot when you are at the closest point to the basket and you are looking to aim at the top right corner of the square on the backboard (if you are doing a right-handed layup) If you can get it right on the corner, 9/10 shots could go in, providing you put enough force behind the ball.
For a left-handed layup you would copy every step but from the left side of the basket, aiming the ball at the top left corner of the square on the backboard.
If you follow these three steps you will be able to perform a basic layup. Keep practising and once you get the hang of it, try it with a friend acting as a defender. You get him to try and stop you from getting past him but not being too forceful (trying to stop you but letting you past). This will help to build up your confidence in performing the shot under pressure. When you feel confident enough, try and incorporate it into your game play.
Good luck, and keep practising.
William Oliver - Written by, William Oliver, contributing writer.
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