The “back in” move is used to dribble into the key, while keeping the player’s back to the basket. It is most effective when the defender has their feet too far away so that a drop step will not work. By dribbling in, the post player tries to get to a position where they can step past the defender, or they are close enough to shoot.

When “backing in” the post player:

Angles their body slightly so that one shoulder is closer to the defender – this creates some space to protect the ball;
Dribble close to their body and between their feet. If the right shoulder is closest to the defender, dribble with the left hand (and vice versa);
Turn their “chin to shoulder” so that they can see the defenders – whichever shoulder is closest to the defender is the direction they should look;
Keep vision of the defender of any perimeter player on their side of the floor – these defenders will often “hedge down” to steal the ball;
Limit the number of dribbles – the more dribbles they take, the more likely another defender will come to steal the ball.

The post player will often take a hook shot once they have moved closer to the ball. They should be trying to get position in relation to the defender’s feet.

The post player may also “hesitate” on their dribble (bouncing the ball higher and lifting their shoulders as if standing up) and then attack with an aggressive step.

This move is not encouraged for young players as they will tend to dribble too often and not have vision of defenders that will come to attack the ball.