How to do a layup in basketball

Step-by-step Instructions

Here is what you need to do...
Step 1

Start on the right elbow of the basketball key (this is the point where the free throw line and the lane line intersect, it is approximately 10 feet away from the basket) with the basketball. Dribble the ball twice with your right hand toward the basket in preparation for a right handed layup. When you reach the area right inside the block jump off of your inside (or left foot). Simultaneously, your right hand and right knee should be raised in unison (imagine there is a string tied between your right knee and right elbow...when your elbow goes up your knee comes up), delivering the ball off the top corner of the backboard and through the hoop.

Step 2

Move to the left elbow of the basketball key (this is the point where the free throw line and the lane line intersect, it is approximately 10 feet away from the basket) with your basketball. Dribble the ball twice with your left hand toward the basket in preparation for a left handed layup. When you reach the area right inside the block jump off of your inside (or right foot). Simultaneously, your left hand and left knee should be raised in unison (imagine there is a string tied between your right knee and right elbow...when your elbow goes up your knee comes up), delivering the ball off the top corner of the backboard and through the hoop.

Step 3

Tips for making layups. First, Always aim for the top corner of the square on the side of the backboard that your shooting at. If you can hit the corner, you will make the majority of your layups. Second, always look at your target and keep your eyes focused on the place you want the ball to go. Third, remember to jump upwards instead of outward. The more vertical you jump the better chance you have of delivering the ball where you want it to go.

Step 4

Practice! Layups are one of the easiest skills to practice, all you need is a ball and a hoop. Set a goal for yourself (ex. try to make 10 right handed layups in a row and then 10 left landed layups without missing) and try to improve on your goal every time you practice.

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This Student Author's Background

Funny or interesting story about this topic...

When I was 5 years old my dad gave me an incentive to start shooting left hand lay-ups. He told me that every time I shot a left handed lay-up in a game he would give me 5 dollars. The strategy worked as I now use my left hand just as well as my right hand.

When did you first do this & how did you get started?

I have been shooting lay-ups since I could walk. It is imperative to learn how to shoot lay-ups with skill because it is one of the most fundamental parts of basketball.

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