How to Do a Euro Step Layup (Basketball)

Last Updated: July 1, 2021

In the game of basketball, the layup is a very fundamental skill that most players master at a young age. The Euro step layup in particular can help you get past a defender and catch them off guard; it is harder to block because you use the rim as a type of blocker or shield. The regular Euro step is used to catch the defender off guard when you can't do a normal layup, while the exaggerated way is used when there is a defender standing there that you have to get past. This is basically doing a right-handed layup on the left side of the basket and vice versa. The Euro step not only can improve your scoring by opening up space but can also make you a better passer.

Method 1

Method 1 of 2:

Regular Euro Step

1
Start by dribbling the ball on the left side of the floor and basket.
2
Dribble with your left hand towards the basket.
- When you start the dribble you want to push the ball out in front of you to get a quick start.
- Be sure not to push it out too far or the ball will get stolen.
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3
Wait until you get about 3-5 feet away from the basket. Then pick the ball up as you are planting your right foot.
- This should take anywhere from 1-3 dribbles depending on skill level. 3 at the max.
- Traveling is taking more than 2 steps without dribbling the ball so make sure you pick the ball up as you plant your right foot about 3-5 feet from the basket.
4
Step with your left foot.
- Your left foot is going to be the foot you jump off of, like a normal right handed layup on the right side.
5
Have the ball in your right hand when you jump.
6
Swing your right leg up as you bring your arm up. Move as if they are connected with a string from your elbow to your knee.
7
Wait until the peak of your jump. There, push the ball off the glass and into the basket.
- You want to aim in the middle of the square not the left side.

Method 2

Method 2 of 2:

Exaggerated Euro Step

1
Start by dribbling the ball at the top of the 3 point line straight away from the basket.
2
Continue dribbling as you run towards the basket.
- Start off slow and then pick up your speed as you get the hang of it.
3
Wait until you are about 5 feet from the basket. Then take a right footed step while picking up the ball.
- You want to make this step to your right, making it seem like you are going to the right side.
4
Push off your right foot step with your left foot, back to the left side of the basket.
- You want to act like you are faking out a defender by going to the right and then quickly going to the left side.
5
Jump off of your left foot like you are doing a normal right handed layup on the right side.
- Swing your right leg and your your right knee up as you bring your right arm up.
- Bring your leg and arm up at the same time like a string is connected from your elbow to your knee.
6
Have the ball in your right hand. Put it up off the glass in the middle of the square and in the basket.
- Depending on the angle you have to put the ball off the glass you might have to put some spin on the ball by twisting your wrist to the left.