Basketball Rebounding Techniques: 10 Drills and Tips to Dominate the Boards

Why Rebounding Wins Games

The old basketball saying goes: "Defense and rebounding win championships." Rebounding ends defensive possessions and creates second-chance opportunities on offense. Teams that outrebound their opponents by 10+ per game win approximately 75% of the time.

Fundamental Rebounding Positioning

Box Out (Block Out)

The foundation of rebounding is the box out. When a shot goes up:

1. Find your opponent (make contact)
2. Turn and face the basket
3. Get low with wide base, arms extended
4. Push your opponent backward with your backside
5. Go get the ball

Reading the Shot

Studies show that approximately 70% of missed shots rebound to the opposite side of the basket from where they were taken. Use this knowledge to anticipate where the ball will land.

10 Rebounding Drills

1. Mikan Drill

Stand under the basket, jump and make a right-handed layup, catch the ball before it hits the ground, jump and make a left-handed layup. Repeat for 30 seconds.

2. Box Out Relay

Two lines face each other. Coach shoots, players compete for the rebound. The defender must box out before going for the ball.

3. Tip Drill

Stand 3 feet from the backboard. Jump and tip the ball against the backboard 10 times in a row without letting it touch the ground.

4. War Rebounding

Three offensive vs three defensive players. Coach shoots. Defense must box out and secure the rebound.

5. Tennis Ball Reaction Drill

Partner drops a tennis ball from shoulder height. Catch it before the second bounce.

6. Wall Taps

Jump and tap a spot on the wall as high as possible. 3 sets of 10.

7. Outlet Pass Drill

Grab a defensive rebound, pivot, and make an overhead outlet pass to half court.

8. One-on-One Rebounding

Defender under basket, offensive player at free throw line. Coach shoots. Defender must box out.

9. Free Throw Rebound Positioning

Practice finding your man and boxing out during free throws.

10. Rebounding Circuit

4 stations: Mikan, tip, box out, outlet pass. 45 seconds each, 3 rounds.

Rebounding rewards effort and technique over pure athleticism. Master these fundamentals and become a force on the glass.

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