The Lost Art of the Pivot
I’ve discussed it before but it drives me crazy that kids today have lost the ability to pivot correctly. I’ve watched game after game where a kid gets pressured and just leans back until he falls over. You have pivot feet for a reason and every kid should be taught how to use when playing ball.
Here’s a simple drill you can use to help young players learn the basics of pivoting:
Start at the baseline with 2 lines of players. The players at the front of each line should have a ball. The players dribble toware the foul line where they come to a jump stop. Both feet must land at the same time when doing the jump stop. It is one of the most common plays called traveling in youth basketball when players land without doing a jump stop.
Anyway, once the jump stop is completed the player should spin away from the ball to protect it and be facing the next person in line. A firm 2 hand chest pass is made and the player runs to the back of the line.
Coaches need to make sure they kids learn how to pivot away from the ball or keeping the ball from the defense. If you have to, stand next to them once they have jump stopped so they learn the true way to pivot. Make sure when they pivot the ball doesn’t cross the defense. Once they have jump stopped and pivoted then pressure them a little and see what happens. Have them practice pivoting and being strong with the ball.
This is a basic fundamental that isn’t taught much anymore and kids are expected to just know it but they don’t.
