by Jefferson Mason, on Dec 13, 2016 2:20:40 PM
Dr. Dish Basketball is excited to bring you another great Drill of the Week. In this week's drill we go over 3 great go-to step-back moves that Kyrie Irving relies on each and every game. It's always important to add more moves and skills to your game as you evolve as a player.
Kyrie Irving has undoubtedly become one of the hardest players to guard in the NBA because of his outstanding handles and shiftiness. The 3 moves we will break down can be used to either get to the rim or create space for a shot. Since we are working on our shooting, I will break down each move and show you how to create the proper space to get your shot off.
The video below will break down each move and also give you an idea of the pace you need to keep your defender off-balance! Always remember to focus on your fundamentals and go hard in all basketball drills you do.
Kyrie Irving Go-To Step-Back Moves
IN AND OUT CROSSOVER
The first move we worked is one of my personal favorites. As a college and pro player this move helped me score a ton of points. The beginning of the move starts with an in and out which is essentially a set up for the crossover coming next. Sometimes the defender will bite hard on the in and out. If they do, you can make a play off that. Most of the time the separation will come from the cross over. Its important to step hard with your front foot so that the defender thinks you are attacking the hoop and start back pedaling before you step back.
BEHIND THE BACK CROSS BACK
This next move is a little more advanced because you have to really be tight with your handles. The first part is the set up behind the back to get your defender moving backwards. The second part is the cross back which is where you will create the space. Players like Steph Curry, Chris Paul, and Russell Westbrook also use this move quite often. Once again you need to make sure that you step hard towards the hoop when you go behind the back. This is one of the most important parts because it will keep the defender off balance and help you create space for the shot.
HESITATION CROSSOVER TO PULL BACK BETWEEN THE LEGS
The last move is definitely a move that will cause defenders to hit the floor if used properly and in the correct situation. This move is also advanced and you have to make sure your handles are crisp for it to work properly. The hesitation part of the move is what freezes the defender because they are trying to figure out if you are going left or right. The crossover will get them moving and thinking you are going to the hoop and the pull back between the legs is what usually will send the defender on the floor. It's hard to keep your balance after the pull back so make sure to be square when shooting the jump shot.
Here at Dr. Dish Basketball we make sure to practice game-like moves and will continue to bring you awesome videos and break down high level basketball. Don't forget to follow us on our social media accounts (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram) for more amazing content and videos. And as usually be sure to train hard, train smart, and train with a purpose!
See why NBA player, Langston Galloway uses Dr. Dish to gain his edge over the competition!
