Train Guards to Finish Through Contact | Basketball Finishing Drills (Barkley Series)

1. Teaching Guards to Play Out of Contact

The Barkley habit teaches guards how to bail out of a drive and still create offense. When penetration is stopped, the drive doesn’t end—it turns into an opportunity to play from the low block.

• Prepares guards for stalled penetration
• Turns pressure into advantage
• Expands offensive options late in the drive

2. Why the Low Block Is a Power Position for Guards

The low block is one of the most dangerous places for a guard when the defender’s back is turned. From this spot, guards can score, draw help, or create passing angles.

• Defense is vulnerable with poor vision
• Creates scoring and playmaking opportunities
• Used effectively at both college and NBA levels

3. Getting to the Middle First

Once the guard enters the Barclay, the first priority is to attack the middle. The middle provides the most options—finishes, kick-outs, and reads for cutters.

• Middle drives open multiple passing lanes
• Improves shot quality near the rim
• Forces help defense to collapse

4. Countering When the Middle Is Taken Away

If the defense takes away the middle, guards must be comfortable countering back to the baseline. Spin moves and quick footwork allow the offense to keep its advantage.

• Teaches effective counter moves
• Prevents dead possessions
• Builds confidence around the rim

5. Giving Guards Multiple Decision Options

The Barclays series is about decision-making. Guards learn to read contact, recognize defensive positioning, and choose the best option in real time.

• Improves basketball IQ
• Encourages autonomous decision-making
• Prepares players for live-game reads

6. Who Should Use the Barclays Action

Some teams give every guard a Barclay option, while others reserve it for specific players. Regardless, guards must be comfortable operating in the post.

• Creates matchup advantages
• Exploits weak guard post defense
• Forces defenses into unfamiliar situations

7. Keeping the Play Alive After the Advantage Is Gone

When no advantage is gained, guards are taught how to escape and re-enter the play. Giving the ball up does not mean standing still.

• Re-screening keeps defenders occupied
• Maintains offensive flow
• Prevents stagnant possessions

8. Teaching Continuous Offensive Activity

Players learn that not every possession results in a score. The key is continuing to move, relocate, and stay dangerous—similar to how elite guards maintain constant activity.

• Encourages nonstop movement
• Makes players harder to guard
• Builds habits that translate to games

9. Why the Barclays Series Translates to Games

The Barclays series prepares guards to handle pressure, play through contact, and make reads near the rim. It turns broken drives into productive possessions.

• Improves late-drive efficiency
• Develops confident guard play
• Adds versatility to the offense