Third-Man Run Simulation
Off-Ball Movement
Legend
- players
- opponents or partner
- ball
- core action
How it works
Practice third-player run patterns, moving into space behind a two-player combination you're watching.
What you need
- cones
Your focus
Third-player runs are the highest-level off-ball movement , exploiting space created by a combination rather than being involved in it. Training the pattern solo builds the spatial awareness to execute it in a match.
Set three cones in a triangle: cone A (start), cone B (right, 8 yards), cone C (far, 15 yards diagonal).
Imagine: ball is passed from B to C.
As the imaginary pass goes to C, sprint from A into a receiving position beyond C.
Vary the direction of the final run, inside cut, overlap, diagonal.
Do 10 reps: 3 inside cuts, 3 overlaps, 4 diagonals.
Goal
You've nailed it when your run always starts at the exact moment the second pass happens.
Helpful cues
- Don't ball-watch, read the combination and move early
- Third-player run begins when the second pass is played
- Arrive in stride with body open to the field
Adjust the challenge
Make it easier
Strip it back
Reduce to two cones, just practice the trigger and run.
UpLVL it
Add the next challenge
Coach calls the run type as the imaginary second pass is played.No account needed
Build a practice plan
Add drills, keep the plan in this browser, then share a link with your staff or parents.This library helps you find the right drill. Inside UpLVL the right drill finds the player.
This library helps you find the right drill. Inside UpLVL the right drill finds the player.After every practice, UpLVL automatically surfaces the drills each player needs to work on most. See it for yourself.