Learn How To Do A Crossover and Become Unguardable
The crossover move in basketball can be one of the most fun and impressive maneuvers in the game, when properly executed.
The move, mostly utilized by guards, should be an essential move in every player’s bag of tricks. Suckering a defensive player into moving in the wrong direction, allowing you to make your move into the space they previously occupied, is at the heart of a good crossover.
Understanding how to do a crossover requires a good combination of fitness and balance, as well as a deceptive mind. Below is a step by step analysis of crossover fundamentals. Slow practice of these steps, gradually increasing in speed as you master them, will have you faking out your opponent out in no time. Let me introduce 8 steps below which will help you to improve your crossover and should be added to your ball handling drills.
8 Steps That Will Show You How To Do A Crossover Today
Step 1: Start your dribble with your dominant or strongest hand. This allows greater control of the ball while you size up your defender and plan your next move. Dribbling low, just below knee level, can help keep your opponent’s hands off the ball.
Step 2: Take a pause as you approach your defender. At this stage, it is essential to focus on your dribble, but keep your opponent from stealing the ball.
Step 3: Forcefully dribble the ball off center, towards your dominant side.
Step 4: Watch the defender to see if he takes your bait on the fake. You will see your opponent’s balance shift perceptibly, as he changes course or speed. You may even want to make a short “hopping” or “jabbing” motion with your feet to enhance the perception that you are going in a direction you are not.
Step 5: If your opponent moves with you, bounce the ball in another direction, and make your move. If possible run in front of him, as this increases the chances that he will commit a foul while attempting to defend the basket. You must have good balance and superior ball control to accomplish this effectively.
Step 6: Practice not looking at the ball as you perform your crossover. In order to maintain ball control while focusing concentration on your opponent, you should maintain focus in the center of his body. Do not allow your gaze to wander.
Step 7: Muster all your speed and agility to accomplish your goal. You can make another fake as you prepare to shoot, or pivot to a different position, even as your defender fights to maintain his composure. If your opponent manages to recover his balance, fake in the direction opposite the direction he previously took your counterfeit move.
Step 8: You can accomplish additional feints by driving, jumping, or using a dunk or pass to blindside your guard further. Low shoulders, pointed towards the center of your opponent’s face encourage him to take the bait.
Practice Is Key When Learning How To Do A Crossover
The crossover is, of course, best practiced with an able opponent, who can match your skill level. Solo practice in the areas of ball handling, footwork, strength, balance and agility will also help your crossover, as well as the rest of your game. Master the crossover and master your offensive game!
