Dribble Drive Reads: punch nail to late whistle reads

Three players plus a coach. – Ball handler starts on the wing with a live dribble. – Offensive shooter is positioned in the opposite corner. – On-ball defender guards the ball handler while holding a basketball. – Coach stands at the nail acting as the help defender (with a whistle). How it Works: The ball handler begins with a live dribble on the wing. At any moment, they attack downhill toward the nail, driving inside the coach’s position. The on-ball defender applies pressure using their basketball to bump and disrupt the ball handler’s balance. As the drive reaches the nail, the coach simulates contact by reaching or stepping into the drive (using a hand, pad, or stick). – If the coach blows the whistle, the ball handler immediately goes into a shooting motion, simulating free throws on a shooting foul. – If there is no whistle, the ball handler must kick the ball to the opposite corner for a catch-and-shoot jumper. Rotate players through each role. Focus Points: – Driving through contact with balance and control – Reading the nail defender and reacting to the foul/no-foul decision – Awareness and discipline: shot vs. kick-out decision – Defender applying physical pressure without fouling – Quick, confident corner shot readiness