We should all be a “Triple Threat” when we’re on the court and this is due to being empowered with 3 options from the 3T or triple threat position. The 3T is the primary position every offensive player should be in when the ball is live and they haven’t wasted their offensive options… These three options being to shoot, to pass, or to dribble the ball.

 

Holster that Weapon Playa

One of the most difficult habits for a player to break who hasn’t been taught the 3T, at a younger age is not to dribble right away when they receive the ball or go after a loose ball. The first step is to catch and/or secure the ball, especially in the backcourt.

If you’re in the frontcourt, catch or secure the ball, square up to the basket and establish the triple threat position. You should stand with your knees bent, eyes up, and the ball shielded from the defender in the holster or pocket area on one side of your body. This will help in allowing you time to:

1. Focus your eyes on the basket, in case you’re able to square up and shoot.
2. Balance and bend the knees, to make an accurate pass to your teammate.
3. Pivot and ease into your dribble if you choose to drive.

 

Hands Down Man Down

If you’re incorporating shooting drills into your workout that’s great, but if you’re not incorporating set points of where you wish to shoot from…you’re only developing your game by 50%. Depending on the position you play for your team will determine where these set points should be on the court.

Focus your eyes on the target. From the 3T position, practice long-range and mid-range shooting to increase your ability to gauge the variation in power and follow through your shot will need to cover the distance.

 

Pass the Dutchie

Bend those knees when you receive that ball, that’s a shooters stance. From the 3T position, this will throw off the defender as to whether you’ll be straightening up for the shot, or faking to drive to the basket. But lets not forget our other option…from this position you can work off your pivot foot to get yourself in a better position to make that pass. From the 3T position that one step will open up a world of passing opportunities for you to increase your assists per game average.

 

Shut Up And Drive

If you’re not gonna listen to me, then listen to Rihanna. Out of the triple threat, the drive is another beautiful option, because it allows for the player to see what the defender is giving and using it against them. Get yourself in the triple threat position, protect that ball and use your pivot foot to keep the defender guessing which of the three options you plan on using. If they’re giving you space shoot, if they’re playing you too tight, drive, and if you’re not confident in doing either from your position on the court, then you can free yourself up to pass and get yourself into a better position to beat your defender.

Are you running your drills at game speed? Are you practicing a counter move in case your first option gets shut down? If you’re not then you’re putting extra pressure on yourself to adjust and finish in real-time during games. Try to adjust your training to incorporate the 3T, it’s a key fundamental of basketball that will help give you the advantage in game situations.