There are many angles of attack you could use for the reverse layup, but all traditional ones drive from either side of the free throw lane to the opposite side of the basket. True beginners can locate the key on the court by looking for the keyhole shape formed by the paint of the free throw lane and the semicircle at the top of that lane. [3] X Research source
The baseline is the boundary line for either side of the court directly underneath the basket of each time. While approaching the basket for your reverse layup, you might juke to the outside (away from the basket) to throw off the defender, then cut hard to their inside to the opposite side of the basket. [4] X Research source
You may have to adjust to defense while taking this shot. This may mean that you have to begin the jump for your reverse layup a step early or late and adjust accordingly.
The reverse layup can be shot from either side of the free throw lane. No matter which side you approach from, always jump off your inside leg. When jumping, it is often instinct to look down or at the ball. Losing sight of the basket will only hurt your shot. Incline your head slightly while jumping to keep the basket in view. [5] X Research source
Unlike many distance shots, the reverse layup doesn’t require you to shoot from the knees. Instead, focus on a strong, consistent, clean shooting motion. [8] X Research source
In many cases, defense will determine just how close you can get to the basket. You may not always be able to perform the layup close to the baseline. Taller and more aggressive defense may require reverse layups to be very close to the baseline. [9] X Research source
Each basketball player is different, so you should experiment with how you flick your wrist and the intensity with which you flick to find the way that works best for you. [10] X Research source
Place four cones on the key. One cone should be placed at each elbow, and one at each second free throw block. Start behind either elbow cone. Fake a shot, like you might while creating a buffer between you and the defense to cut to the inside, then take a single step back with your right foot. Push off with your back right foot and cut to the hoop on the outside of the cones. When you are beside the cone at the second free throw block, drive to the baseline. Shoot the reverse layup. Jump off your inside foot, delay your ball pickup slightly, and use your outside hand to flip the ball off the backboard and into the basket. [11] X Research source
As you pick up the ball to make a traditional reverse layup, keep the ball firmly palmed and begin extending your arm to the basket. When you near the backboard, extend your fingers and allow the ball to roll off your fingertips, sending the basketball off the backboard and into the basket. [12] X Research source
Approach the defense and read the situation. If you’re up against players significantly taller who might give you blocking grief, you’re in a good position to shoot the teardrop. Begin your approach as you would a traditional reverse layup, but begin your inside leg jump while still on the fringes or center of the key. This should be initiated while there is still a gap between you and the defense. Bring up your outside leg as you spring upward to follow the raising motion of your outside arm, which should be holding the ball. Straighten your arm and leg as you reach the top of your jump, and shoot the ball at the basket. When shooting, loft the ball in a high arc with a soft touch, and decrease the ball’s rotation by using a lighter touch than usual in your follow through. [13] X Research source
