Closeout Defense: no middle wing closeouts

The coach begins dribbling at the top of the key. As the coach dribbles toward the offense, the defensive player at the elbow stunts hard at the ball, forcing the ball handler to pick up the dribble. The coach then passes the ball to the offensive player on the wing. The defender immediately closes out to the wing, arriving with their top foot up to take away the middle. The drill becomes live for two dribbles. After two dribbles, the offensive player must pick up the ball and the rep is complete. Focus Points Proper stunt timing and urgency Closing out under control with correct footwork Taking away the middle on the closeout Defensive balance and body positioning Containing the ball for a limited number of dribbles