Layup

The main obstacle is getting near the rim and avoiding blocks by taller defenders who usually stand near the basket.

Common layup strategies are to create spaces, release the ball from a different spot, or use alternate hands.

Notable past NBA players who rely heavily on the underarm finger roll are Mike Bibby and Allen Iverson.

Finger rolls today have many forms, including the "Around the World" which involves a complete circle around the player before the layup and a variety of faking in the approach to the rim.

A classic example is a play by Jason Williams during his time with Sacramento, in which Williams brought the ball behind his back with his right hand, in a fake of a back pass, and then brought it front again with the same hand for the finish (reminiscent of Bob Cousy, who pioneered the move).