How to Do a Step-Back Jumper

Shooters know how to move off screens, get the basketball in the right spot and score points. Even the toughest defenses can't deny the ball 100 percent of the time, but they can keep a shooter moving and prevent smooth jumpers. Great players respond with strong, athletic moves, and the step-back jumper is effective for creating space to shoot. Scorers from Michael Jordan to Kemba Walker know the championship value of a great step-back move.

Instructions

    • 1

      Take the ball and dribble outside the 3-point area.

    • 2

      Tell a teammate to set a screen, if possible, within the offense, so you can have a taller player guarding you as you dribble. Centers and power forwards likely won't be as quick on their feet while defending you.

    • 3

      Order your teammates to clear out, taking themselves and their defenders to the baseline or outside the 3-point area.

    • 4

      Dribble with your nonshooting hand toward the top of the key and free-throw line.

    • 5

      Take a quick, jabbing step forward with your strong side. This will force the defender into an off-balance retreat, and could result in him falling to the court -- known as an "ankle-breaker."

    • 6

      Jump back with the opposite foot you used for the forward jab-step.

    • 7

      Plant both feet and comfortably take your open shot.