7-on-5 Basketball Press Drill

Full-court pressure destroys teams not ready for it – create more intensity by adding extra defenders in practice so offensive players get used to scrambling

WHY USE THIS BASKETBALL PRESSING DRILL
If a team consistently can move the ball up the floor against seven defenders in practice, then facing “just” five in a game should lessen the impact of the defensive pressure.

SET UP
There are five offensive players and seven defenders on the floor. Move most of the defenders into the backcourt [1] to create more pressure on the offense.

HOW TO PLA Y
Let the overmatched offense attempt to beat the defense a couple of times. Most likely, they are going to turn over the ball, especially if they simply try to inbound by a sideline [2]. After a couple of turnovers, step in and show players how to use quick cuts, well-timed screens and the middle of the floor to break the pressure.

TECHNIQUE
Even if the offense completes a couple of passes immediately, they are going to have difficulty if the ball consistently is against the sideline [3] as it provides the defense another advantage. The key is to have offensive players constantly in motion. No one has time to stand still. Once the offense consistently beats the seven defenders, then facing a full-court press in a game becomes easier.