The Euro step is a basketball move players use to drive to the basket to evade defenders.
Born in European basketball and now global, the move means taking a step one way, then quickly another way before a shot or pass.
This article explains the Euro step, its use, and its history.
How to do the Euro step
1. Drive towards the basket
Dribble towards the basket.
If you’re new to the Euro step, start at the three-point line facing the basket, not from the wing. The wing area is the space on each side between the top of the key and the baseline.
After mastering the Euro step, you can use it from anywhere.
For now, practice it from the three-point line while facing the rim to keep it simple.
2. Gather the ball
Imagine there’s a defender between you and the basket.
As you approach the defender, hold the ball with both hands, which means you’ll stop dribbling and get ready for your two steps.
When you hold the ball matters for the Euro step’s legality and success.
3. Take the first step to mislead the defender
Take a large step to the side, either left or right.
If you’re right-handed, use your right foot to step right. If you’re left-handed, use your left foot to step left. The initial step should deceive the defender.
Use your feet and body to make the move believable.
4. Take the second step to change direction
After your first step, take the second one in the opposite direction.
Use this step to get past the defender and clear a path to the basket.
The fast direction switch often surprises the defender.
5. Shoot or pass
After the Euro step, you can either take a layup, a floater, or a pass. Pass if a defender is near or a teammate has a better shot chance.
6. Practice and focus on timing
Like any basketball move, the Euro step requires practice to master. Focus on timing, step speed, and making the move look real to deceive opponents.
Here are some tips to make your Euro step more effective:
- Sell the Move: The Euro step works best when your first step tricks the defender. Show real intent in your chosen direction.
- Stay Balanced: Keep steady during the move, especially when turning. A good balance helps in a solid finish.
- Protect the Ball: During the Euro step, shield the ball from defenders with your body.
When to use the Euro step?
Here are some scenarios when you might use the Euro step:
Avoiding a Charge: The Euro step is mainly used to dodge defenders setting up for a charge. Stepping around, rather than into the defender, helps you prevent offensive fouls.
Splitting Defenders: As you drive to the basket, you may face two closing defenders. Using the Euro step, you can move between these defenders, preventing blocks or charges.
Deceiving Shot Blockers: Tall players or skilled shot blockers usually predict your drive’s path to time their blocks. A Euro step alters your attacking angle, disrupting the blocker’s timing.
Creating Space: The Euro step can create the needed space for a layup or short shot. A lateral step helps you distance yourself from defenders, whether they’re trailing or contesting the shot.
Fast Break Situations: On fast breaks, defenders aim to predict where you will go, steal, or prepare for a charge. A timely Euro step confuses defenders, letting you score at the rim.
When Driving from the Wing: Players moving from the wing to the basket frequently use the Euro step to bypass their main defender and dodge paint defenders.
Who invented and popularized the Euro step?
The Euro step, as the name suggests, has its origins in European basketball.
European players like Manu Ginóbili and Dražen Petrović popularized the Euro step in the NBA. Both players brought the move with them from European leagues.
While Manu Ginóbili is often credited for the Euro step’s NBA popularity, the move existed in European basketball before its NBA introduction.
Šarūnas Marčiulionis, the Lithuanian inventor of the Euro step, introduced the move to the NBA in 1989 with the Golden State Warriors. Today, NBA superstars such as Giannis Antetekounmpo, James Harden, and Russell Westbrook frequently use the Euro step.
What’s the difference between a layup and a Euro step?
A layup is a shot near the basket, and the Euro step is a move to dodge defenders. The Euro step can lead to a layup, but they are different game moves.
Let me explain the two terms.
A layup is a close shot to the basket. The player often uses one foot and extends their arm to bounce the ball off the backboard. The layup is a basic and common shot in basketball.
The Euro step is a footwork move to dodge defenders during a layup. The player steps one way to trick the defender and then steps the other way to pass them.
Is the Euro step legal?
The Euro step is a legal basketball move if the player follows the two-step rule. This rule means they get two steps once they stop dribbling and hold the ball.
There are two things to keep in mind when doing the Euro step:
- Take only two steps. Taking more without dribbling results in a traveling call. Dribble or shoot before a third step to prevent it.
- Don’t run into the defender. Running into them leads to an offensive foul, giving the ball to the other team. Step around the defender and move quickly to prevent fouls.
Can you pivot after a Euro step?
After a Euro step, you can’t pivot.
The first step is your pivot foot, and taking the second step means you’ve moved it. After the second step, you should shoot or pass to avoid a traveling violation.