Up-and-Under

In basketball, an up and under move is used to make a defender jump so the offensive player can go underneath the defender and take an open shot. It consists of a pump fake and then a step through towards the basket. The up and under is particularly useful against players who jump often because they want to block shots.

The up and under move is primarily used by players in the low post with their back to the basket. Additionally, this move can be used by players looking for a shot further from the rim.

In The Low Post

For the purpose of these instructions, the offensive player will be positioned on the low post to the right of the basket. To perform the move on the left side, simply substitute “right foot” with “left foot” and vice versa.

When a player in the low post catches the ball with their back to the basket, they can turn to the center of the paint or to the baseline.

If spinning toward the center of the paint, the player pivots on their right foot, which is positioned further from the baseline. The player brings their left foot around so they have turned 180 degrees and is facing the opposite sideline. Then, the offensive player pump fakes to get the defender up in the air. The offensive player keeps their pivot foot on the ground and takes another step with their left foot toward the basket. The offensive player can then finish the play with a layup.

To spin toward the baseline, the offensive player turns in the opposite direction. This time, they pivot on their left foot, turning toward the baseline. Again, the player faces up, pump fakes, and takes another step in the same direction with their right foot before finishing with a layup.

Further From The Basket

Further away from the basket, the shooter can do the same thing, though the move starts with the shot fake because the offensive player is already facing the general direction of the basket. As long as they have jump stopped, the offensive player can pivot on either foot to step under the leaping defender.

The player using this move at a distance can take a big step under the defender so they can get close enough to the basket for a controlled shot. However, it can still be used further outside to create space for a leaner, also known as a leaning jump shot.

When performing an up and under, the player must keep their pivot foot on the floor through the entire move. If they do not, the player will be called for a travel.

The up and under move in basketball is very effective for a player who is a good jump shooter. If a player is able to get their jump shot going well early in the game, their defender will be more prone to falling for their shot fake, therefore allowing them to move under and around them.

Although any player on the floor can utilize this move, the up and under is extremely effective for those who are working the low post. If the offensive player can get their hook or fadeaway dropping early in the game, they can then try the up and under move for a high-percentage layup.

Example: James drives into the paint and gives the center the old up and under before making the layup.