Basketball is a dynamic sport that combines agility, speed, and skill. In basketball, a layup is a key shot. It’s a shot near the basket where a player jumps and shoots with one hand.
Layups may look easy, but players use different types based on the play. Here’s a breakdown of the different types of layups in basketball:
1. Standard Layup
The standard layup is the most basic type of layup in basketball.
To do this shot, a player drives towards the basket, jumps off one foot (usually the foot opposite to the shooting hand), and lays the ball into the basket using the opposite hand.
For example, a player jumping off the left foot shoots with the right hand. If they jump off the right foot, they use the left hand.
The motion is smooth, with the player extending their shooting arm towards the basket. The other hand protects the ball from defenders.
Usage
The standard layup is a key shot in games. It’s used often during fast breaks or when the basket is clear. It’s also a basic skill players learn when they start learning the game.
Advantages
- Simplicity: The standard layup is simple. It’s one of the first shots players learn.
- Efficiency: Done right, the layup gives a good chance to score near the basket.
- Versatility: The layup works in many game plays, like fast breaks or half-court moves.
Challenges
- Defensive Pressure: The standard layup, like other close shots, can face blocks or challenges from defenders.
- Accuracy: The layup is basic but it’s tougher to do under stress or when moving fast.
Notable players
All basketball players use the standard layup. But some stand out for their great driving and finishing skills, like:
- Magic Johnson: With his size and adaptability, he often scored using the standard layup.
- Derrick Rose: At his best, his quick speed meant he often drove and scored with layups.
- LeBron James: His mix of power and speed has made the standard layup a regular scoring move in his career.
2. Reverse Layup
In a reverse layup, a player moves to the basket from one side. They then use the basket to shield and finish the layup on the other side.
The player doesn’t shoot straight into the basket from their drive side. Instead, they take the ball under the hoop to the other side. They often use the backboard to help make the shot.
Usage
Players use the reverse layup when they expect blockers or defenders behind them. Moving to the basket’s other side lets the player use the rim as protection.
This makes blocking the shot harder for defenders.
Advantages
- Protection from Defenders: The rim shields the ball, making it hard for defenders to block.
- Deception: The shot can surprise defenders, mainly if they wait for a regular layup.
- Versatility: Players can do the reverse layup with any hand. It lets them adjust to their spot and how defenders act.
- Improved Scoring Angles: Players use the backboard to get good angles. This helps them bounce the ball into the basket.
Challenges
- Spatial Awareness: Players must know their position near the basket to do the shot properly.
- Defensive Pressure: The reverse layup protects, but a defender’s timed jump can mess up the shot.
- Complexity: The reverse layup needs more skill than a regular one. It’s tougher to do right when moving fast.
Notable players
- Michael Jordan: He was famed for his athletic skills and rim finishes. He often used the reverse layup to dodge defenders.
- Kyrie Irving: His top ball skills and finishes stand out. He uses reverse layups to impress defenders.
- Larry Bird: He wasn’t the most athletic, but his game smarts and angle know-how made his reverse layups work.
3. Finger Roll
The finger roll is a basketball shot. In it, a player drives to the basket.
Instead of a regular shot, they let the ball roll off their fingertips. This gives the ball a smooth arc into the basket. For this shot, a player stretches out their arm.
They use their wrist and fingers to guide the ball gently.
Usage
Players use the finger roll near the basket. It helps them shoot over taller defenders. This shot’s soft touch and arc make it tougher to block than a regular layup.
Advantages
- Soft Touch: The ball’s gentle release from the fingers boosts its odds of going in, even with a rim hit.
- Deception: The underhand style can surprise defenders. They might expect a regular layup or dunk.
- Versatility: Players can do the finger roll from many spots close to the basket.
Challenges
- Precision: The shot needs careful touch and control, more so when done under stress.
- Defensive Pressure: The finger roll is tough to block. But a blocker’s timed jump can mess up the shot.
Notable players
- George Gervin, known as “The Iceman,” is a top expert in the finger roll. He did the shot skillfully and well, making it a key move in his NBA days.
- Wilt Chamberlain, a famed center, used the finger roll well. His tall frame made the shot hard for defenders to block.
4. Euro Step Layup
The Euro step layup is a move in basketball. A player drives to the basket, takes a sidestep, then steps the other way, and ends with a layup.
The Euro step layup helps players dodge defenders without breaking travel rules.
Usage
Players use the Euro step on fast breaks or when a defender blocks their way to the basket. The Euro step lets players change a defender’s direction and make a clear way to the basket.
Advantages
- Deception: The Euro step can confuse a defender, messing up their timing and spot.
- Avoiding Charges: Players sidestep to dodge defenders ready to charge.
- Versatility: Players can mix the move with finishes like finger rolls or reverse layups.
- Reduced Traveling Violations: Done right, the Euro step lets players move without breaking travel rules.
Challenges
- Timing: Players need good timing in the move to avoid travel rules.
- Footwork: Good steps are key to do the move right and not shuffle feet.
- Defensive Adaptation: Skilled defenders can guess the Euro step and get in place.
- Control: Keeping the ball during the Euro step is tough, more so with defenders close.
Notable players
- Manu Ginóbili: This Argentine guard played for the NBA’s San Antonio Spurs. He’s known for making the Euro step popular in the league.
- James Harden: Known as “The Beard”, he masters the Euro step and uses it to beat defenders.
- Giannis Antetokounmpo: Known as the “Greek Freak”, he uses his size and speed for the Euro step, a key move for him.
- Dwyane Wade: This retired NBA player often did the Euro step, mainly in his best years with the Miami Heat.
5. Jump-Stop Layup
The jump-stop layup is a variation of the traditional layup in basketball.
In a jump-stop layup, players don’t go straight to the basket for a layup. They dribble hard, do a jump-stop by landing on both feet, and then jump again for the layup.
This move lets players set up, check the defense, and pick how to make the shot.
Usage
Players use the jump-stop layup to slow a drive, mislead defenders, or move through crowded areas near the basket. It helps players who are unsure about their steps or want to stop and avoid a charge.
Advantages
- Change of Pace: The jump-stop can catch defenders off-guard, especially if they’re expecting a direct drive to the basket.
- Versatility: With a jump-stop, players can either take a layup, use a pump fake, or pass to a teammate.
- Balance: The jump-stop helps players set up and stay balanced for the shot.
- Avoiding Charges: A jump-stop lets players stop to avoid running into defenders ready for a charge.
Challenges
- Timing: The move requires good timing to ensure the player doesn’t travel or commit a double-dribble violation.
- Defensive Pressure: When a player stops in the paint, they risk being targeted by shot-blockers or other defenders.
- Complexity: The jump-stop layup needs more skill than a standard layup and is tougher to learn.
Notable players
Many players use the jump-stop in their game, but few are known just for this move.
Players like Tim Duncan and Kobe Bryant, known for their solid skills and footwork, often used the jump-stop layup.
6. Spin Layup
The spin layup is a basketball shot. In this shot, a player drives toward the basket and uses a spin to change direction and dodge a defender.
During the spin, the player shields the ball, making the shot hard for a defender to block. After the spin, the player finishes with a layup.
Usage
Players use the spin layup when they face a defender near the basket. When players spin, they can dodge defenders and make a clear path for the layup.
Advantages
- Deception: A spin move by a player can surprise defenders, especially if they expect a straight drive to the basket.
- Protection: When players spin, they can use their bodies to shield the ball, keeping it safe from defenders.
- Versatility: Players can do a spin layup with any hand from various angles to adapt to the defense.
- Change of Pace: A quick change in direction during the spin move can throw off a defender’s balance and timing.
Challenges
- Ball Control: Keeping the ball steady while spinning is tough, especially under defensive pressure.
- Spatial Awareness: After spinning, players need to know their spot relative to the basket for an accurate layup.
- Defensive Adaptation: Experienced defenders might anticipate the spin move and position themselves to counter it.
Notable players
- LeBron James: With great footwork and rim-finishing skills, James often used spin layups against tight defenses.
- Tony Parker: With top ball-handling, Parker often uses spin layups to dodge defenders and score.
- Dwyane Wade: His agility and speed made spin layups a go-to, especially in crowded drives.
7. Inside-Hand Layup
The inside-hand layup is when a player shoots with the hand nearest the basket, not the usual outside hand.
For example, if a player drives from the basket’s right side, they’d use their left hand, the inside hand, instead of the right.
Usage
Players use the inside-hand layup when they expect a defender to block or challenge the shot from the side or behind.
Using the inside hand lets players guard the ball with their bodies, making it harder for defenders to get to it.
Advantages
- Protection: Using the inside hand lets players put their bodies between the ball and the defender.
- Deception: Defenders often expect an outside-hand layup. Using the inside hand can disrupt their timing and spot.
- Versatility: Perfecting the inside hand layup adds to players’ ways to score in different scenarios.
Challenges
- Unnatural Motion: Many players find the inside hand layup less familiar than the usual one, especially without regular practice.
- Accuracy: The odd shooting angle can make aiming and finishing with the inside hand harder at first.
Notable players
Many players use the inside-hand layup, but few are known only for this move.
Elite finishers like Kyrie Irving, Stephen Curry, and Tony Parker use the inside-hand layup well against defense.
8. Wrong-Foot Layup
The wrong-foot layup is when a player jumps off a different foot than usual to score at the basket.
In a standard layup, players jump off the foot opposite to their shooting hand, such as the left foot for a right-handed shot.
In the wrong-foot layup, players reverse this usual method. For instance, a player might jump off the right foot and shoot with the right hand.
Usage
The wrong-foot layup is used to disrupt defenders’ timing and expectations.
As defenders expect standard layup steps, the wrong-foot layup can surprise them, making shots harder to block.
Advantages
- Deception: The unexpected footwork can disrupt a defender’s rhythm and positioning.
- Versatility: Using the wrong-foot layup adds a way to score near the rim, even in tight spots or against blockers.
- Change of Pace: This move lets players shoot faster than with regular layup steps.
Challenges
- Unconventional Motion: Players used to regular layup steps might find the wrong-foot layup odd. This move needs practice for smooth execution.
- Balance and Control: Jumping off an unexpected foot can throw off a player’s balance, especially at fast drives.
Notable players
Many NBA players use the wrong-foot layup to add variety to their moves. Crafty players like Manu Ginóbili, James Harden, and Stephen Curry use it well to surprise defenders.
9. Up-and-Under Layup
The up-and-under layup, also called the “up-and-under move,” is a basketball shot.
A player near the basket fakes a shot, making the defender jump. They then pivot or step to lay up on the hoop’s other side. The player usually fakes with an over-the-head or hook shot.
When the defender falls for it, they finish with the “under” move at the basket.
Usage
The up-and-under layup is commonly used in the post by players who have their back to the basket or by players driving to the hoop who want to evade a shot blocker.
It’s a move that capitalizes on a defender’s eagerness to block the shot.
Advantages
- Deception: The move tricks defenders into reacting to the first fake shot.
- Protection: By going up and then under, players can use the rim as a shield against shot blockers.
- Efficiency: Done right, the up-and-under layup offers a good scoring chance near the basket.
- Versatility: Players can adjust the move based on the defender’s actions, giving different ways to finish.
Challenges
- Timing: The move’s success depends on the shot fake’s timing and the next pivot or step.
- Footwork: Proper footwork is crucial to avoid traveling violations and to maintain balance during the move.
- Defensive Anticipation: Skilled defenders may spot the move and not jump, making the fake less effective.
Notable players
- Kevin McHale: The former Boston Celtics forward is often regarded as one of the best post players in NBA history, and his up-and-under move was a signature part of his game.
- Hakeem Olajuwon: Famous for his “Dream Shake,” Olajuwon often used the up-and-under among his post moves.
- Kobe Bryant: With his skill, Bryant often used the up-and-under move in post-ups.
10. Floater
A floater, also called a “teardrop,” is a basketball shot.
Players release the ball softly, making it arc over tall defenders and into the basket. Players usually take this shot in the lane or mid-range. It has a fast release and goes high.
Usage
Guards and smaller players often use the floater when driving to the basket, especially against tall defenders in the paint.
Instead of challenging these defenders directly with a layup, they use the floater to shoot the ball over them.
Advantages
- Evasion of Shot Blockers: The high arc and quick release make the floater difficult for taller defenders to block.
- Versatility: Players can shoot the floater with any hand and from many angles, adding to their scoring options.
- Quick Release: The shot needs little preparation, so players can take it fast in close situations.
Challenges
- Accuracy: The floater’s high arc makes it hard to master, needing precise control.
- Defensive Pressure: Even if the floater aims to dodge blockers, a defender’s timely jump can disrupt it.
- Range Limitation: The floater is typically most effective in the mid-range area and less so from longer distances.
Notable players
- Tony Parker: The ex-Spurs guard is known for mastering the floater and used it well in his career.
- Stephen Curry: Besides his shooting skills, Curry’s floater helps him score over tall defenders.
- Chris Paul: Known for his ball skills and mid-range shots, Paul often uses the floater against defenses.
11. Jelly Layup
The “jelly layup” is a showy version of the regular layup. It stands out due to its exaggerated finger roll and added moves like a leg kick.
Players drive to the basket, jump, and use a flashy finger roll in the air to complete the layup. The term “jelly” refers to the smooth and fluid motion of the shot, akin to the wobbly movement of jelly.
Usage
The jelly layup adds flair to a regular layup and is often a showboating shot.
This layup is popular in streetball and is becoming more common in organized basketball, especially with young players.
Advantages
- Deception: The exaggerated motion can throw off a defender’s timing and make the shot harder to block.
- Entertainment: The jelly layup is a crowd-pleaser and can energize teammates and fans.
- Versatility: Players can tweak the jelly layup, giving it a personal touch.
Challenges
- Complexity: The jelly layup requires coordination, timing, and finesse, making it more challenging than a standard layup.
- Risk: The flair of the jelly layup can lead to misses if not done right.
Notable players
While the jelly layup has its roots in streetball, several players have popularized it in recent years, especially in the context of organized basketball:
- Isaiah Washington, a guard known for coining the term “Jelly Fam,” is credited with popularizing the jelly layup, especially among high school and college players.
- Kyrie Irving, with his top-notch ball-handling and finishing skills, often showcases jelly layup variations in NBA games.
12. 360 Layup
The 360 layup is a flashy basketball shot. In this shot, a player spins a full 360 degrees in the air while driving to the basket and then finishes with a layup.
The player starts the 360 layup by jumping off one foot. While in the air, they rotate their body fully. They then use either hand, based on the spin direction and preference, to score.
Usage
The 360 layup adds flair to a standard layup and is often used for showboating. This shot delights crowds and often appears in All-Star games, dunk contests, and streetball matches.
Players rarely use the 360 layup in regular games because of its complexity and miss risk.
Advantages
- Deception: The spin can confuse defenders, making the player’s finishing point harder to predict.
- Entertainment: The 360 layup, a highlight-reel shot, excites teammates and fans.
- Versatility: Players with skill and creativity can execute the shot from different angles and starts.
Challenges
- Complexity: The 360 layup needs good coordination, timing, and space sense for correct execution.
- Defensive Pressure: The spin’s duration gives defenders a chance to block or contest the shot.
- Accuracy: Players can get disoriented by the rotation, which makes aiming and finishing the layup hard.
Notable players
The 360 layup is high-risk, so many players avoid it. However, athletic players like John Wall, Ja Morant, and Monta Ellis have used it in games and contests.
13. Double-Clutch Layup
The double-clutch layup is a basketball shot. In this shot, a player changes the ball’s spot when they jump and move to the basket.
They shift the ball from one side to the other and then make a layup.
The “clutching” action means the player holds the ball in the air for a short time before they shoot. This shot helps dodge defenders, mainly those who block shots, by changing the shot’s speed and path.
Usage
Players use the double-clutch layup when they think a defender will try to stop their shot. By moving the ball in the air, the player can dodge the defender and score.
Advantages
- Deception: Changing the ball in the air can confuse a defender’s timing, so they find it tough to block the shot.
- Protection: Holding the ball and moving it helps players keep it safe from defenders, making blocks less likely.
- Versatility: Players can do the double-clutch layup with any hand and from many sides. This lets them change based on how defenders act.
Challenges
- Complexity: The shot needs good timing, body control, and skill, more so when done fast.
- Accuracy: Moving the ball in the air can change a player’s balance and shot path, making the layup harder to do.
Notable players
- Michael Jordan: Famous for staying in the air long and scoring among many players, Jordan often used the double-clutch layup to dodge defenders.
- Derrick Rose: With his fast moves, Rose was good at using the double-clutch layup to score when many players were near.
14. Fake Pass Layup
The fake pass layup is a type of layup shot in basketball.
In this shot, a player acts like they will pass but keeps the ball and makes a layup. The player often moves their hand or head fast, acting like they’ll pass, but doesn’t let go of the ball.
An example of the fake pass layup is the Pinoy step. It starts with a fake before a drive to the basket. The aim is to trick defenders with the fake pass, making a clear path for the layup.
Usage
The fake pass layup is used to make defenders think a pass will happen soon.
When defenders change where they look or stand because they expect a pass, this gives the player a clear way to the basket.
Advantages
- Deception: The fake pass can stop or trick defenders for a short time, giving the player a better shot chance.
- Versatility: Players can use this shot in many ways, like during a fast run, moving among players, or in mid-court plays.
- Protection: Holding the ball and not passing cuts down the chance of losing it.
Challenges
- Execution: The shot needs good timing and must look real. If the fake doesn’t seem convincing, defenders might not fall for it.
- Control: Keeping the ball while doing the fake and then moving to a layup is hard, more so when done fast.
Notable players
- Luka Doncic: With his big build, great skills, and sharp sight, Doncic often tricks defenders with the fake pass to score.
- Rajon Rondo: Famous for his smart plays, Rondo often uses fake passes to make defenders alert.
- Magic Johnson: A top passer in NBA history, Magic often added fake passes to his many moves to trick defenders.
15. Fake Behind-the-Back-Pass Layup
The fake behind-the-back pass layup is a type of layup shot in basketball. In this shot, a player acts like they will pass behind their back but keeps the ball and makes a layup.
Usually, a player starts the behind-the-back pass move with one hand. But they don’t let go of the ball. They move it around their body and then head to the basket for a layup.
Usage
This shot is used to trick defenders, making them think the player will pass to a teammate. When defenders fall for the fake pass, it gives the player a clear path to the basket.
Advantages
- Deception: The fake pass can surprise defenders, giving a chance for an easy shot.
- Versatility: Players can use this shot from many places and angles, based on their skill and where defenders stand.
- Protection: Moving the ball behind the back keeps it safe from defenders, making steals less likely.
Challenges
- Complexity: The move needs good timing, teamwork, and ball skills to do well.
- Risk: If not done right, players might drop the ball or break the travel rule.
Notable players
- Rajon Rondo: Famous for his smart ball moves and passes, Rondo often tricks defenders with the fake behind-the-back pass layup.
- Kyrie Irving: With his great ball control and scoring skills, Irving has used this move many times, outplaying defenders.
16. Stretch Layup
The stretch layup is a basketball shot. It’s also called the extension layup.
In this shot, a player fully extends their arm and body to make a layup. This is often done from a spot further from the basket than usual.
The term “stretch” means the player reaches out to put the ball over the rim or past a defender. Players use this layup to dodge shot-blockers or when they aren’t right under the basket.
Usage
Players use the stretch layup when they move to the basket and meet a defender ready to block a normal layup. By reaching out, the player puts more space between the ball and the defender.
This makes the shot harder to block.
Advantages
- Evasion: The long reach lets players make shots past tall defenders or shot-blockers.
- Versatility: Players can do the stretch layup with any hand. This helps them adjust to where they are near the basket and how the defense acts.
- Unpredictability: If defenders wait for a normal layup or shot, the quick stretch can mess up their timing.
Challenges
- Control: Reaching out when moving can change a player’s balance. This might make the layup harder.
- Vulnerability: When a player reaches out far, the ball is more open. Defenders might take it away more easily.
Notable players
- Tony Parker: Being a skilled guard, Parker drives to the basket and uses the stretch layup to shoot over tall players.
- Giannis Antetokounmpo: Thanks to his long reach and quick moves, the “Greek Freak” likes using stretch layups to shoot over defenders, mainly when moving fast.
- Kevin Durant: With his wide reach and skill, Durant often uses the stretch layup, mainly when he starts from the outer area.
17. Scoop Layup
The scoop layup is a basketball shot. In this shot, a player drives to the basket and uses an underhand motion to lift the ball up to the hoop.
The player usually takes the shot from a low angle. Their hand is under the ball, making it fly in a gentle curve. The “scoop” move lets the player shoot the ball fast.
This makes it hard for defenders to block.
Usage
Players use the scoop layup when they move to the basket and meet tall defenders or shot-blockers. Rather than using a normal overhand layup, players choose the scoop move.
This lets them shoot from lower down, which is tough for defenders to stop.
Advantages
- Quick Release: Players can shoot the scoop layup fast, so defenders have less time to respond.
- Deception: The underhand move can surprise defenders because it’s not as usual as a normal layup.
- Protection: The low shot start helps keep the ball safe from defenders, more so when the player uses their body well.
Challenges
- Accuracy: The scoop layup has a different way of shooting and path. This makes it hard to learn and needs a sure hand.
- Defensive Pressure: The scoop move might dodge some defenders. But a quick jump or hit by a defender can mess up the shot.
Notable players
- Kyrie Irving: Because of his great skill with the ball, Irving often picks the scoop layup to make points among many players and past tall ones.
- Stephen Curry: Curry’s quick moves and gentle shots help him use the scoop layup well, mainly when he’s around close defenders.
18. Cuff Layup
The cuff layup is a basketball shot. In this shot, a player drives to the basket and holds the ball near their forearm and wrist, like a football running back protects the ball.
This way of holding gives more safety to the ball, so defenders find it tough to take or hit it out. The player then shoots the ball in a layup way, keeping the tight hold until they let go.
Usage
Players often use the cuff layup when moving through many players or expecting hits from defenders. It’s a safe shot that keeps the ball even if defenders try to take it or in close areas.
Advantages
- Protection: Cuffing the ball provides added security, reducing the risk of turnovers from strips or deflections.
- Strength: The tight hold helps players keep the ball, even with hits or pressure from defenders.
- Deception: The firm hold can confuse defenders about when the player will shoot, which might mess up their block timing.
Challenges
- Flexibility: To do the cuff layup well, players need good wrist movement and power, mainly when they shoot.
- Range: Because the grip is safe, players usually use the cuff layup near the basket. It might not work as well from a distance.
Notable players
- Derrick Rose: Because of his great skill with the ball, Rose often picks the scoop layup to make points among many players and past tall ones.
Kyrie Irving: Irving’s quick moves and gentle shots help him use the scoop layup well, mainly when he’s around close defenders.