Not at all—and in fact, looking down is part of the learning process. When players first start using the DrillMat, it’s completely normal to glance down. That’s how they build awareness of foot placement, spacing, and movement patterns. You can’t correct what you can’t see—and visual feedback is essential for developing precision. Think about players who look down at the ball during games. Are they doing that because they looked down during training? Or is it more likely they’re looking down because they lack skill, control, and confidence in their hands and feet? Once a player learns what “right” feels like, looking up and seeing teammates becomes natural. The fear that players will develop a habit of looking down misunderstands how real skill is built. Players don’t stare at the mat in games—just like they don’t stare at cones or ladders. The DrillMat helps develop technical footwork and body control that becomes automatic over time. It actually reduces hesitation in live play by making movement patterns sharper, more intentional, and easier to trust. So yes, players may look down at first—and that’s exactly why the DrillMat works. It’s not a crutch. It’s a precision tool for building confidence, control, and elite-level movement.

Yes! While the DrillMat has helped multiple players become first-time NBA All-Stars, it’s especially effective for younger players. Whether you're just starting out or already advanced, the mat provides clear visual guidance to develop effective footwork, control, and fundamental basketball techniques.

The DrillMat helps improve foot placement, weight distribution, explosiveness, stance, and spatial awareness. It’s also proven to be highly effective for building accountability in ball handling, finishing, and shotmaking.

Absolutely. The DrillMat is perfect for home use, making it easy to train in tight spaces like a garage, basement, or driveway. It’s lightweight, portable, and designed for indoor or dry outdoor use.

The DrillMat System includes 28 exclusive training sessions that show you exactly how to maximize its potential—just like it’s used by NBA players and top trainers. Micah Lancaster also shares additional ways to train with the DrillMat regularly on social media. Thanks to its built-in guidelines and markings, it’s easy to put the mat to use and get the most out of its unique size and dimensions.

Unlike cones or ladders, the DrillMat provides visual accountability at every step. Its built-in cues help players stay intentional with their movement, leading to faster improvement and real skill development. While cones can mark space, they can't be stepped on or used dynamically. The DrillMat, on the other hand, is designed to be stepped on, jumped on, and used for cutting—allowing players to train exact foot placement and spacing without the risk of slipping.

Yes. The DrillMat is made from high-quality materials that can withstand intense footwork training. It’s designed to grip the floor securely and resist sliding on most surfaces.

While the DrillMat can be used outdoors, we recommend choosing either indoor or outdoor use—just like you would with a pair of shoes. Using the DrillMat on concrete may cause wear that leads to reduced grip on gym floors. If you're planning to train exclusively outside, we also offer a dedicated Outdoor DrillMat designed specifically for that purpose.