The euro step is most definitely one of the sickest moves in finishing at the rim. I use these move all of the time! Many players in the NBA use this as their go to move on fast breaks. It doesn't have to be used during fast breaks however. The most noted player for using the euro step is Manu Ginobili, that boy has perfected this move. Heck, he probably brought it from Europe. Another player that uses this is Dwayne Wade.
Here's how Ginobili does it:
1. Pick & Roll
Instead of busting the move out of the blue, Ginobili usually sets the move up with the Pick & Roll. First, face and square up with your defender and wait for your teammate to set a pick. Once he's set, utilize the pick to zoom by the defender.
2. Split the defense
Another defender will rush out to help in order to defend you, use this split second in order to split the defense. You can do this by slipping the ball through the tiny crevice that is between the two defenders and then drive right between them. Most defenders do not commit in blocking the path because it is hard when the other defender is so close.
3. Euro step
Once you've past the first two defenders, use your two steps to get past the last defenders. By now you are probably driving at full speed. Dribble once and then pick up the ball while taking one giant step in one direction to draw the defenders and then take another step in the opposite direction to make space for a clean layup. This can be done with their foot so this move can be done from both sides. Ginobili describes it as being a very lateral move so remember to move from side to side. Being the last defender and the offense player performing the euro step has a huge advantage due to his speed and only the offense player knows where he's going. If the defender does not react you don't even have to go the opposite direction.
4. Finish
Now you can finish with one or two hands. This can be an easy layup, floater, etc. Use your body to protect the ball while doing so.
Tips: Protect the basketball at all times by cradling, hugging, or even swinging over your defender's heads (Dwayne Wade's signature move). Develop your own style and keep improving!
Here's how Ginobili does it:
1. Pick & Roll
Instead of busting the move out of the blue, Ginobili usually sets the move up with the Pick & Roll. First, face and square up with your defender and wait for your teammate to set a pick. Once he's set, utilize the pick to zoom by the defender.
2. Split the defense
Another defender will rush out to help in order to defend you, use this split second in order to split the defense. You can do this by slipping the ball through the tiny crevice that is between the two defenders and then drive right between them. Most defenders do not commit in blocking the path because it is hard when the other defender is so close.
3. Euro step
Once you've past the first two defenders, use your two steps to get past the last defenders. By now you are probably driving at full speed. Dribble once and then pick up the ball while taking one giant step in one direction to draw the defenders and then take another step in the opposite direction to make space for a clean layup. This can be done with their foot so this move can be done from both sides. Ginobili describes it as being a very lateral move so remember to move from side to side. Being the last defender and the offense player performing the euro step has a huge advantage due to his speed and only the offense player knows where he's going. If the defender does not react you don't even have to go the opposite direction.
4. Finish
Now you can finish with one or two hands. This can be an easy layup, floater, etc. Use your body to protect the ball while doing so.
Tips: Protect the basketball at all times by cradling, hugging, or even swinging over your defender's heads (Dwayne Wade's signature move). Develop your own style and keep improving!