What is Layup in Basketball?

What is the layup in basketball? Well, to make a layup you need to have good ball handling skills and you must catch the ball in the air while running and jumping towards the basket. Having said this, what really defines layup and how does it work? Read on to find out. 

Delve into the Hoops Lingo: Learn What is Layup in Basketball 

The sport of basketball has evolved over time, and there are now plenty of ways to score a basket than it was years ago. Still, no offensive move can give you the easiest point better than a layup, a scoring technique that every hooper has in their arsenal. For starters, here is what you need to know about the layup. 

Definition of Layup in basketball

What is layup in basketball? A layup in basketball is a high-percentage shot that’s easier to make than the slam dunk. It’s made by leaping from below, laying the ball up near the basket, and using one hand to bounce it off the backboard and into the basket. The motion and one-handed reach distinguish it from a jump shot. Layups have an extremely high shooting percentage.

Purpose of scoring with a layup

A layup is an easy shot that you can make. That’s the most basic understanding of what is layup in basketball. However, to truly be great at shooting layups, you need to know its purpose. A layup’s goal is to score one point and assist your team in scoring a basket. The purpose of scoring with a layup is to score making the other team get a foul so they have one against them. The main reason for scoring with a layup is that it gives you an advantage on the game.

Layups are sometimes overlooked by the average basketball player because they only score two points. However, layups can be effective when they are executed correctly. For example, if you run the floor well and get yourself open for a shot under the basket, there is not much of a chance that your opponent will block it. The same goes for breakaway dunks and backdoor passes (passes that you receive behind the defense that leads to an easy slam). Layups are easier to complete during games than other shots because they typically have more space to work with and their trajectory is closer to the rim than other shots due to lower arcs.

Make each shot count! 

When is the best time to use a layup?

You usually don’t want to use a layup if your range is very small and it’s unlikely to raise your score much (it’ll just be an extra 3 points or so). But if you’ve only got a few points to work with and some good shots with you, then it’s worth taking a chance on layups in very tight spots. 

The main reason is that when you miss, your only alternative is a miss – an even worse shot. So by going for them when they’re unlikely to score as well as you did before, you’re increasing your chances of getting a good score and therefore improving your chances of landing a better offer. Also, a layup may be the best option if there are no defenders in front of you or only one defender. This is because you can get up your shot without jumping very high. The time it takes to jump is when someone can grab your arm or deflect the ball away from you.

Various types of layups in basketball

• Overhand Layup

The overhand layup, also known as the flip layup in basketball, is a type of layup shot where the ball is taken above the head and layed (flipped) into the rim. This shot is often used when closer to the basket. 

• Finger Roll

The finger roll layup is a type of move in basketball where the player rolls his hand over the ball to help guide it into the hoop. This is said to be one of the most difficult shots in basketball because one must use a lot more rotation in their wrist and forearm to guide the ball through the basket.

• Reverse Layup

A reverse layup is a shot in a basketball game that is taken by jumping and laying the ball off the backboard.

• Inside Hand Finish

To shoot an inside hand finish layup, start by dribbling near the foul line with speed. The moves are then performed with a shuffle step followed by a 180-degree spin. After initiating the spin, rise up on your toes while keeping your knees bent and bring your extended arm around for a layup.

Produce Easy Baskets on the Court

Scoring with a layup is one of the most basic basketball scoring plays. It’s also one of the most effective and common ways to score in basketball. So, make sure to practice and master this skill to be unstoppable in the court!