How to Set Up the Close-Out and Contest Drill

The Close-Out and Contest Drill is a basketball drill that is designed to help kids improve their ability to close out on an opponent and contest shots. The goal of the drill is to teach players to effectively close out on an opponent, challenge shots, and make it difficult for the opposing team to score.

To set up the Close-Out and Contest Drill, cones are placed on the court to create a line for the offensive player to move across. The defensive player starts on one side of the line, while the offensive player starts on the other side. The coach or a designated player will pass the ball to the offensive player, and the defensive player will then close out on the offensive player and contest the shot.

The defensive player should focus on proper technique such as keeping their feet shoulder-width apart, using their body to shield the offensive player, and keeping their hands up to contest the shot. The offensive player should focus on proper shooting technique and try to score while the defensive player is closing out on them.

As the players progress, the coach can increase the difficulty of the drill by having the offensive player move in different directions or at different speeds, or by adding more players to the drill to simulate game-like situations. The drill can also be modified to incorporate different types of shots, such as jump shots or layups.

The Close-Out and Contest Drill is an effective way to help kids improve their defensive skills and better understand the importance of proper technique. It allows players to practice closing out on an opponent, challenging shots, and making it difficult for the opposing team to score in a controlled environment, which will help them become better defenders and overall better basketball players.