Rip Through Meaning in Basketball

A rip through describes a move where a player swings the ball across their body. The offensive player starts with the ball on one side and moves it rapidly across. This motion often aims to draw a foul by making contact with a defender’s arms. The player holds the ball low and sweeps it upward in a continuous arc shape. Referees typically call a non-shooting foul if the defender reaches into the offensive space. This tactic forces opponents to keep their hands back and avoid reaching for the basketball. A forward might use a rip through when a defender guards them too closely. Maintaining a tight grip on the ball prevents the defender from knocking it away.