How to Make Layups With Contact

The layup is one of the most fundamental shots in basketball and is a maneuver that every player should learn before playing competitively. While layups are an easy way to make a basket on a breakaway, if there is a defender between you and the net making contact, the chances of the shot going in are decreased. It is possible to make a layup even with contact from a defender by making the right moves.

Instructions

    • 1

      Stay low as you are going in toward the defender. Keep your knees bent and as you come up, make contact with your back and your rear while keeping your arms and the ball away from the opponent. Keep your dribble low and quick and keep an eye out for other defenders as you move toward the basket.

    • 2

      Make a drive step toward the basket. Keep your chest and your head centered over your knees and the arm toward the basket up to prevent the defender making contact from reaching in. Use your other arm to dribble and, as in Step 2, keep your dribble low to prevent steals.

    • 3

      Put your shoulder on the defender's hip as you make the turn around him and extend the dribble toward the basket. Don't try to back into him or go in to the basket with your belly facing him. Make a quick turn around and begin your jump toward the basket.

    • 4

      Keep your eyes on the rim as you go up. Keep in mind where the defender is and how he is moving to keep you from making the layup. As you pick up your dribble, choose the best hand to shoot with that will keep the ball away from the shot blocker. If the defender moves to the outside, don't be afraid to use your inside hand.

    • 5

      Push the ball up and against the backboard into the basket. Keep your arm as straight as possible as you make the shot to prevent it from going off target.