How to Learn a Teardrop Basketball Shot

The tear drop is a driving shot that allows a player to get off an attempt at a basket when a regular driving lay up would not allow him a window to get a shot off. The tear drop utilizes surprise, as the player appears to be driving for a lay up, then pulls up to shoot near the top of the key instead of near the basket, allowing the player to elevate while their defender remains planted on the ground. The surprise factors makes the tear drop, also known as a floater, a popular driving shot for point guards.

Instructions

    • 1

      Create separation if your opponent is close to you by utilizing a pick or a dribbling maneuver, such as a crossover or a fake driving step.

    • 2

      Drive toward the lane with speed, as if cutting to the basket to go for a lay up.

    • 3

      Perform a jump stop as you reach the top of the key.

    • 4

      Watch for defenders offering help on your left and right who may not have fell for the misdirection. You should have an idea of where the other defenders are as you drive and hop into position.

    • 5

      Pull the ball in and look to pump fake or distribute the ball if your defender or a helping defender has read the tear drop and are in position to stop the shot.

    • 6

      Elevate for the shot, with the ball in your shooting hand, if the shot is available.

    • 7

      Release the ball at the top of your jump in a high arc. If timed correctly, your defender will have started jumping after you were already airborne, allowing you to release over the hands of a taller defender.