10 Essential Basketball Tryout Drills to Help You Make the Team

When I first watched Juan Gomez de Liano during Converge's preseason games, I immediately understood why the FiberXers selected him as their No. 2 pick in the 50th Season. His performance wasn't just good—it was transformative. In their four preseason victories, he was putting up numbers that made scouts double-check their stat sheets: averaging around 18 points, 7 assists, and 5 rebounds per game. Those aren't just numbers; they're statements. And they got me thinking about what separates players like Juan from those who don't make the cut. Having coached youth basketball for over a decade and participated in numerous tryouts myself, I've seen firsthand how the right drills can make or break a player's chances. Today, I want to share ten essential basketball tryout drills that I believe are crucial for anyone aiming to secure their spot on a team. These aren't just random exercises; they're the building blocks that help players demonstrate their worth under pressure, much like what we're seeing from Gomez de Liano this preseason.

Let's start with something fundamental: the two-ball dribbling drill. I can't stress enough how important ball handling is during tryouts. Coaches notice when a player loses control under defensive pressure. I always recommend spending at least 20 minutes daily on this before tryouts. You'd be surprised how many players overlook this, focusing instead on flashy moves. But here's the thing—without solid dribbling skills, those flashy moves fall apart. Next, we have the spot-up shooting drill. Accuracy matters, but so does consistency. I've seen players hit 8 out of 10 shots in warm-ups but crumble when it counts. Set up five spots around the three-point line and aim for at least 70% accuracy from each. It's not just about making shots; it's about making them when fatigue sets in. Speaking of fatigue, the suicides drill is a killer but non-negotiable. I remember my first college tryout—I thought I was in shape until we did suicides. It's not just about speed; it's about maintaining technique when you're exhausted. Coaches watch for how you finish each sprint. Do you slow down at the end? Or do you push through? That tells them about your mental toughness.

Another drill I swear by is the defensive slide series. Defense wins games, and during tryouts, it can win you a roster spot. I've cut players who scored 20 points but played lazy defense. Set up cones in a zigzag pattern and focus on staying low and moving quickly. Your goal should be to complete three sets without standing up or crossing your feet. Then there's the pick-and-roll drill, which is where basketball IQ shines. Juan Gomez de Liano excels here—his decision-making in Converge's preseason games shows why. Practice reading the defense: when to pass, when to shoot, when to drive. I'd say 60% of players mess this up because they predetermine their moves. Don't be one of them. The rebounding drill is another area where effort stands out. Use a partner or a rebounding machine and focus on boxing out. Aim for 10 offensive rebounds in two minutes. It sounds tough, but it's what separates the hungry from the satisfied.

Moving on, the full-court layup drill tests your endurance and finishing ability. Start under one basket, sprint to the other end, and make a layup with each hand. Repeat for five minutes straight. I've seen players gassed after two minutes, but the ones who push through catch the coach's eye. Then there's the passing under pressure drill. Use a partner and a defender in the middle. The goal is to make 15 clean passes in two minutes without turnovers. It mimics game situations where passing lanes are tight. Next, the free throw drill might seem basic, but in close games, free throws decide outcomes. Shoot 50 free throws and track your percentage. If you're below 80%, you need more work. Lastly, the 3-on-3 half-court scrimmage is where everything comes together. It's not just about skills; it's about chemistry and adaptability. Play unselfishly but look for your shots when they're there.

Watching Gomez de Liano's emergence with Converge, it's clear that his success isn't accidental. He's mastered these fundamentals, and it shows in his stat lines. In their preseason wins, he's been efficient, disciplined, and clutch. That's what tryouts are about—showing you can contribute when it matters. I've seen too many players focus on one aspect of their game and neglect others. Don't make that mistake. Balance is key. Work on these drills until they become second nature. And remember, tryouts aren't just about physical skills; they're about showing coachability and hustle. Dive for loose balls. Communicate on defense. Encourage teammates. These intangibles often matter more than hitting every shot.

In conclusion, making a team requires more than talent—it requires preparation. These ten drills cover the essentials, but they're only effective if you approach them with the right mindset. Take a page from Juan Gomez de Liano's book: be consistent, be resilient, and always look for ways to improve. Whether you're trying out for a school team or a competitive league like the one Converge plays in, these drills will give you a fighting chance. I've seen players transform their games by committing to these exercises, and I'm confident they can do the same for you. Now get out there and show them what you're made of.