A dominant post player can be a game-changer on both ends of the court. Whether it’s scoring in the paint, grabbing rebounds, or locking down opponents on defense, post players play a crucial role in basketball. To build an effective post presence, coaches need to focus on developing a well-rounded set of skills, from footwork to strength and basketball IQ. In this blog post, we’ll discuss essential training tips to help coaches mold dominant post players.

Why a Strong Post Player is Crucial

Post players often control the tempo of the game. A skilled post player provides:

1. Interior Scoring: The ability to score close to the basket makes the offense more dynamic, allowing for inside-outside play that forces the defense to collapse.
2. Rebounding: Dominating the boards gives teams second-chance opportunities on offense and limits the opponent’s possessions.
3. Defensive Anchor: Post players are often the last line of defense, protecting the rim and deterring drives with shot-blocking and physical play.

Key Skills for a Dominant Post Player

1. Footwork
   • Footwork is the foundation of all post moves. Good footwork allows a player to create space, make quick decisions, and maneuver efficiently around the basket.
   • Training Tip: Practice basic footwork drills such as pivoting, drop steps, and spin moves. Focus on balance and staying low to the ground. Incorporate game-like scenarios where players work on foot positioning against defenders.
2. Strength and Conditioning
   • Post play is physically demanding. Players need upper body strength to hold their position, lower body strength for explosive moves, and endurance to battle under the basket.
   • Training Tip: Implement a strength training program focusing on core stability, leg strength (squats, lunges), and upper body power (bench press, push-ups). Plyometrics (box jumps, medicine ball throws) can improve explosive movements essential for rebounding and shot-blocking.
3. Post Moves
   • Developing a variety of post moves will make the player harder to defend. Moves like the drop step, up-and-under, hook shot, and fadeaway should all be part of a post player’s arsenal.
   • Training Tip: Drill each move repeatedly, focusing on both power and finesse. Use one-on-one drills to simulate game situations. Encourage players to develop counters for each move, such as a pump fake to keep defenders off balance.
4. Finishing Around the Basket
   • A dominant post player must be able to finish at the rim, even with contact. This includes using both hands to finish layups and shots close to the basket.
   • Training Tip: Practice finishing drills with contact by using pads or having defenders simulate physical play. Work on various finishes like layups, hook shots, and floaters with both hands.
5. Rebounding Technique
   • Rebounding isn’t just about height; it’s about positioning and timing. Post players need to focus on boxing out, reading the ball’s trajectory, and using their body to create space.
   • Training Tip: Focus on box-out drills where players fight for position and secure the rebound. Use rebounding drills like the “Toughness Rebounding” drill where multiple players compete for a single rebound, simulating game conditions. Reinforce the importance of timing and being aggressive in going after the ball.
6. Passing Out of the Post
   • A great post player can pass effectively when double-teamed, helping create open shots for teammates. Being able to read the defense and find the open man is key to keeping the offense fluid.
   • Training Tip: Use passing drills that simulate double-teams and help players work on passing out to the perimeter. Teach post players to look for cutters and shooters when under pressure. Play 3-on-3 or 4-on-4 games with an emphasis on making quick, accurate passes out of the post.
7. Defensive Skills
   • Post players are the defensive anchor, so they need to excel at shot-blocking, contesting shots, and holding their position against offensive players.
   • Training Tip: Drill defensive stance and positioning. Teach players to maintain verticality while contesting shots to avoid fouls. Incorporate shot-blocking drills and focus on timing, keeping hands up, and controlling rebounds after the block.
8. Mental Toughness and Decision-Making
   • Post play requires mental toughness. Players need to handle physical play, maintain focus, and make quick decisions whether they are passing, shooting, or defending.
   • Training Tip: Use game simulations that challenge players to make decisions under pressure. Scrimmages with game-like scenarios, such as playing with limited time on the shot clock, can help players develop quick-thinking skills.

Drills to Develop a Dominant Post Player

1. Mikan Drill (for Finishing)
   • A classic drill to improve finishing around the rim with both hands. Players work on making layups on both sides of the basket, alternating hands, while maintaining a rhythm.
2. 1-on-1 Post Play (for Footwork and Moves)
   • Have post players go one-on-one in the low post. Encourage them to use a variety of moves while defending with strong body positioning. This improves both offensive and defensive post play.
3. Rebounding War (for Toughness and Positioning)
   • A competitive drill where players fight for rebounds in a confined space. This drill builds toughness and reinforces proper box-out techniques.
4. Post-to-Perimeter Passing (for Vision and Passing)
   • Set up shooters around the perimeter and have the post player catch the ball, face up, and pass out to the shooters. This improves passing vision and decision-making under pressure.
5. Shot Blocking Drill (for Defensive Timing)
   • In this drill, have players rotate over to block shots without fouling. Focus on timing, positioning, and jumping straight up with hands extended.

Teaching Post Players to Read Defenses

A post player’s ability to read defenses and make smart decisions is crucial. Whether it’s recognizing a double team or reading how the defender is positioned, decision-making often determines success in the post.

• Training Tip: Use drills where players react to various defensive looks, such as single coverage or a double-team. Encourage players to keep their head up and make quick decisions—whether to pass, dribble, or shoot.

Conclusion

Building a dominant post player takes time, but with the right training, players can become powerful forces on both ends of the court. By focusing on footwork, strength, post moves, and decision-making, coaches can help post players develop the skills they need to dominate in the paint. Consistent, game-like drills and a focus on mental toughness will give your post players the confidence to excel under pressure and lead your team to success. With hard work and dedication, your post players will become the backbone of your team’s success!