Post-up moves turn strength, timing, and footwork into buckets. For Lykkers who want to add a classic but deadly tool to their game, this guide breaks down how to own the paint, back down defenders, and finish with control and confidence.
Posting up isn’t just for tall players—it’s for anyone who wants to score smartly near the hoop. Whether you’re sealing your defender or faking them out with a spin, this guide will walk you through the essentials of setting up, making your move, and finishing strong. Let’s get to work down low.
Part 1: Setting Up in the Post
Establish Position Early
Before the ball even gets to you, start fighting for your spot. Get your body low, plant your feet wide, and use your legs and hips to hold off the defender.
Show your hands and call for the ball once you’ve carved out space. The earlier you get position, the more time you have to work once the ball arrives.
Feel the Defender
Once you catch the ball, don’t rush. Use your back and shoulders to feel where the defender is. Are they leaning too far on one side? Pressuring you hard? Giving you space?
This tells you everything about what your next move should be. Trust your instincts and keep the ball protected—don’t bring it down low where guards can swipe it.
Pivot with Purpose
Your pivot foot is your anchor. Keep it solid as you turn, fake, or spin. A simple pivot can open up a clean look or draw a foul if the defender jumps early.
Work on both forward and reverse pivots so you can adjust no matter where the pressure comes from. The smoother your footwork, the easier the shot will be.
Stay Balanced, Stay Calm
When posting up, your strength comes from control, not chaos. Don’t let the defense rush you.
Stay on balance, keep your eyes up for cutters and shooters, and take your time deciding between a shot, a pass, or another move.
Part 2: Making Your Move
Back-Down and Turnaround
One of the most fundamental post moves: the back-down. Use short, controlled dribbles to push your defender closer to the basket.
Once you’re close enough, rise into a soft turnaround jumper over your shoulder. Use your pivot to choose which side to spin to, depending on where the defender leans.
Drop Step Power Finish
If the defender gives you baseline, take it. Use a strong drop step—pivoting your back foot toward the baseline and stepping around the defender.
Once you’ve got the angle, go up strong with two hands and finish at the rim. It’s quick, simple, and almost unstoppable when done right.
Up-and-Under Fake
This is a footwork classic. Start your move like you’re going up for a hook or turnaround. As the defender jumps, step under them and lay it in.
You’ll need patience, balance, and timing. Don’t rush the fake—make them believe the shot is real, then slip underneath.
Hook Shot Mastery
The hook shot is a go-to for post players because it’s hard to block. Turn sideways from the defender, extend your shooting arm, and flick the ball gently off your fingers.
Use your non-shooting arm to shield the defender and keep the shot high. Practice with both hands—it’s a great way to finish even when help defense arrives.
Pass Out with Purpose
If help defense collapses, don’t force it. Keep your eyes up and look for open teammates. A great post player knows when to score and when to kick it out.
Your passing keeps the defense honest—and makes your next move even more effective.
Post-up moves bring power and patience together. They’re not just about backing down defenders—they’re about reading the game, controlling your space, and making smart decisions close to the hoop.
So Lykkers, whether you're a big or a guard, adding post-up moves to your game gives you more ways to score and help your team. Work on your footwork, stay composed, and remember—it’s not about flash. It’s about finishing. Keep the grind going and rule the low block.
