(1) Q: How do we face up?

A: Facing up is simply turning your body towards the basket, utilizing your pivot foot to do so. Your pivot foot can be either your right or left foot, and you can turn in either direction (at this point, it’s best to be able to use all of these options). When on the perimeter with the ball, facing up to the basket is usually the first step, since it will be very difficult to shoot or dribble towards the basket if your body is facing another direction. However, simply facing up will leave us in a position that is a) weak, and b) not prepared to perform the main 1v1 actions of shooting or dribbling. So after facing up, it is usually best to get into the triple threat position.

(2) Q: What is the triple threat position? 

A: (See 2.1.1.(5) for earlier reference) The triple threat position not only protects the ball (it is difficult for the defender to steal the ball from this position), it allows the ball-handler to immediately pass, shoot, or dribble if needed (since we will not be passing for the moment in 1v1, it allows us to either dribble or shoot). 

Skills Drills

Skills Drill #1: Face Up + Triple Threat

Players will line up each with a ball around the perimeter/three-point line. They will face the opposite direction of the hoop. They will roll the ball to themselves, then after catching the ball they will simultaneously face up and get into the triple threat position. Repeat 5x ensuring proper triple threat form.