How to Execute a One on One Jab Step Move in Basketball

An effective offensive player must have a vast array of one-on-one moves. These moves will allow you to get by a defender, open yourself up for a jump shot or get you into open space to create an opportunity for yourself or a teammate. This article focuses on a core one-on-one move: The Jab Step.

Things You'll Need

  • Basketball
  • Defender
  • Good ball-handling skills
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Instructions

    • 1

      BE IN TRIPLE THREAT POSITION WITH THE BALL PROTECTED FROM THE DEFENDER. Triple threat is when you are in position to be able to shoot, dribble or pass. Your knees are bent and your body is square to the basket.

    • 2

      CHOOSE A PIVOT FOOT. This is the foot that will remain in place until you take your first dribble. For beginners, your pivot foot should be the foot that is opposite your strong hand. For instance, if you are a right-handed player, your left foot will be your pivot foot. For more advanced players, keep your defender off-guard by switching your pivot foot during the course of the game.

    • 3

      NOTICE THE DEFENDER'S POSITION. You want to identify the defender's foot that is closest to you--in other words, his/her lead foot.

    • 4

      JAB STEP AT THE DEFENDER'S LEAD FOOT. Once you have identified the defender's lead foot, keep your pivot foot in place and take a jab step to be in alignment with the defender's lead foot. When taking this jab step make sure you are low and protecting the ball.

    • 5

      READ THE DEFENDER'S REACTION. Once you have made this jab step, notice what the defender has done and make the appropriate choice. If the defender falls back to prevent you from driving past him/her, pull your jab step back and take the open jump shot. If the defender does not give ground, stay low and dribble past him/her.