The Laker Heat Drill is one of my favorite drills to use when working on transition defense. I started using this drill with a group of 4th-grade boys who had never played competitive basketball. Our first game of the year, we were beaten by 45 points. By the end of the season, we played the same (undefeated) team again and lost 18-17 in overtime. The following season, this group went on to win the league tournament championship. I can honestly say this drill played a big role in the turnaround.
Laker Heat Drill Overview
The Laker Heat Drill can be broken into two segments and coached as such: offense and defense. It begins with a passing drill, the Laker Passing Drill, and concludes with the Heat Drill, which incorporates both offense and defense.
Defensive Focus
- Transition Defense: All players must sprint back and get at least one foot in the paint before calling out their defensive assignments and matching up to play.
- Coaching Points: Prioritize protecting the basket first, then defend outward from the hoop. Do not allow any easy baskets.
Offensive Focus
- Key Skills: Ball handling, passing, and movement (cutting or setting screens).
- Coaching Flexibility: You can set specific rules to emphasize particular aspects of offensive play. When teaching the drill, focus on the basics: transition offense, good ball handling, precise passes, and functioning effectively in a 3-on-3 setting.
Rebounding Emphasis
As players progress, allow the Heat offense to continue playing until the defense secures a rebound or forces a steal. This reinforces the idea that defense doesn’t stop until the ball is back in your possession.
Detailed Description of the Laker Heat Drill
Laker Passing Drill
Figures 1 through 4 illustrate the layout and progression of the Laker Passing Drill. Focus on:
- Passing: Players should make accurate, catchable passes.
- Receiving: Receivers must keep their hands up and provide a clear target.
- Teamwork: Ensure players work at a consistent speed as a team. Their speed will improve naturally as their skills develop.
The drill ends with a layup. Immediately, all three players turn and SPRINT back on defense, while the next group takes the ball out of the net and advances it up the court (see Figure 5 and 6).
Heat Drill
The Heat Drill begins with defensive players sprinting back to the paint and getting at least one foot inside the lane. From there:
- Defensive Assignments: Players must call out who they are guarding and establish a good help defense position. Always prioritize protecting the paint/basket.
- Offensive Execution: Offensive players should:
- Make smart passes.
- Protect the ball.
- Play aggressively in a 3-on-3 setting.
- Use screens (on-ball or off-ball) and cutting to attack the defense.
How This Drill Improves Your Team
When players master the Laker Heat Drill and execute it at a high level, you’ll see a direct improvement in both transition offense and defense. While it’s not the only component of great defense, it’s a significant step in the right direction for your team’s development.
Good Luck This Season!
Incorporate the Laker Heat Drill into your practices, and let us know how it impacts your team’s success this season. We’d love to hear from you!
BtL
A variation of this drill was originally used by Bob Hurley and I have used and adapted it over the years.
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