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How to offense in basketball
Tips To Improve Your Offensive Game
Tips To Improve Your Offensive Game
In order to be an effective offensive player at any level, you must have a firm grasp on a couple incredibly important traits. They might not always be flashy or popular things, which often means it goes overlooked, but they are absolute fundamentals for any aspiring athlete. No matter how big, fast, or strong you are, you won’t be able to out run, dunk, and dribble everybody and these details will help you build an overall more well-rounded game.
Take CoachUp’s tips with you to practices and games from here on out, you’ll most definitely see an improvement in your game over time. For most situations and scenarios, it isn’t the flashiest or the strongest player that gets the most playing time, but instead the most fundamentally sound. Remember, you can always get better!
Practice Your Shot
Work with your shooting form, starting with your feet to get a firm foundation.![]()
Learn to shoot with your fingertips and get good rotation on your shot. No matter your age, ‘shoot’ the basketball and don’t just chuck it or aim! Practice, practice, practice — the more it’s reactionary and instinctual than purposeful math, the better.
To perfect your shooting technique, practice shots within just a few feet of the basket, then gradually increase your distance from the basket to the wing, to the elbow, etc. Practice lay-ups with proper form from both sides of the basket as well. Don’t forget about free-throws, either! In games and practice, don’t be afraid to look for shooting opportunities, but don’t force bad shots.
(Related: Read about improving your shot here.)
Become A Good Dribbler + Ball-Handler
Dribbling and ball-handling are fundamental skills for almost any offensive move with the ball. Practice dribbling drills and moves for at least fifteen minutes every day.
(Related: Read about your ball-handling skills here.
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Learn the Triple-Threat Position
The triple-threat position is so incredibly important for keeping your defender on their toes. A viable triple-threat will have you pivoting to face your defender to have the option of shooting, passing or dribbling. You control the defender, so don’t limit your options by holding the ball in just one spot.
Be A Good Passer
Bad passing and turnovers will destroy a team faster than anything absolutely anything else. Make crisp bounce passes as they are harder to intercept. Avoid long cross-court passes unless your teammate is wide open and it fits your offensive scheme. Give your teammate a good pass so they can easily catch and transition into the triple-threat position.
(Related: Read about the point guard position and their responsibilities here.)
Court Awareness
The keys to better court awareness can be broken down to three main points! Always know where the ball is, keep your head on a swivel, and never, ever turn your back on the ball.
This means paying attention at all times, staying weary of back-door cuts, possible passes, or broken plays to take advantage of. Learn find an open areas on the floor for easy, high-percentage shots.
Go Hard For The Offensive Rebound
Many easy baskets are scored on second and third chances, so stay at it no matter what. Get in the habit of following your own shot as well. Many times, if your shot is too short or hard, it will come off the rim right back towards you. Depending on the style of play your team has, you may attack rebounds more often than others, but weak side rebounds are often there for the taking. Again, you might be surprised to find out that those hard-working players will find the floor more often than those more technically skilled.
(Related: Read about becoming a beast on the glass here.)
Get The Ball Down The Floor Quickly
Fast-break whenever possible to beat the defense down the court, but play under control at all times.
At all costs, avoid turning the ball over! Obviously, you can’t score if you don’t have the ball, so don’t be afraid to slow it down and get into your half-court set if that feels more appropriate. Remember, you must be quick, but never hurry.
(Related: Read about running the fast break here.)
Avoid Too Much Dribbling
Too much dribbling allows the defense time to reset — quick passing and cutting is the key to smooth offensive basketball. When you receive a pass, consider not immediately dribbling, but instead going into the triple threat — it will make you a much more tougher assignment. Coach John Wooden told his players to end their dribble with either a pass or a shot — which may seem odd, but it’s actually incredibly sound advice. Don’t stop your dribble until you can do either of those things.
(Related: Read about improving your weak hand here.)
Move Without The Ball
Don’t stand still, set picks, make cuts through the paint, and go back-door on your defender.
Too often, teams will play a very ball-dominant player and, typically, his teammates will end up watching him more than they’ll play. The style of offense you run may dictate some of this, but you should never stay in one spot on the floor for more than a couple of seconds because it allows the defense to guard you with little effort.
(Related: Read about moving without the ball here.)
Huddle Up
In the end, these aren’t every trait that you need to focus on during your training — no, in fact, this is just an incredibly small sampling. But, we’ve given you a couple ideas for each to build off of — if you find yourself further interested, check out the related reads under each section. Those specific articles will go into deeper detail than we’ve done here, so we strongly recommend checking those out.
However, if you’re still struggling with some of this, consider booking one of CoachUp’s private trainers to help you out. Our team’s advanced knowledge and expertise will help you get out of any bind, drama, and last-second situation with confidence — so what are you waiting for?
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Basketball Offense For Beginners : Concepts and Examples
Table of Contents
What is offense in the game of basketball
Offense is a foundational component within the game of basketball and its primary emphasis is to use a combination of individual player skills as well as team strategies and tactics to create scoring opportunities near the basket or from the perimeter.
What are the typical areas of the court for basketball offense
The typical areas of the court for basketball offense that players should generally understand are known as the top, the slots, the wings, the corners, the high posts, the low posts, the short corners, and the key.
The top, broadly speaking, is the half court area that is above the basket and beyond the three-point arc. However, in a more specific sense, the top is the area in between the slots which begins behind the three-point arc in the middle of the court and ends at the center (or middle) of the half court line.
Additionally, as a side note, the top of the key would be the space between the free throw line circle and the three-point arc in the middle of the court. However, this website typically will not use the term top of the key as the diagrams that are exhibited do not fully demonstrate what the top of the key looks like.
Instead, to keep things simple and to not cause possible confusion for beginners, the term top is utilized, which as stated before, will generally refer to the area in between the slots behind the three-point arc in the middle of the court.
The slots are the areas above the wings, adjacent to the top, and beyond the three-point arc. The wings are essentially the areas behind the three-point arc near the sideline but further away from the baseline.
The corners are basically the areas behind the three-point arc near the sideline as well as the baseline.
The high post is the half-circle area starting from one corner of the free throw line to the other corner plus the area between the free throw line and the top.
In addition to that, the high post corners are also commonly known as the elbows.
The low post is an area just outside of the lane lines slightly above the basket. On an actual basketball court, it is typically shown as a rectangular-shaped block, and is therefore, also called a post block.
The area between the low posts and high posts which also includes the dotted half-circle and the basket itself is called the key. Additionally, the key is also known as the painted area, the free throw lane, or simply, the lane.
It is known as the key because in the ancient days of basketball, the area near the basket was much smaller than it is today and it somewhat resembled an old-fashioned keyhole.
So apparently, the phrase, “the key” just stuck. It is also called the painted area because that part of the court usually features a certain color, typically based on the home team’s jersey color.
Additionally, the NBA, EuroLeague/FIBA, and the NCAA/NAIA use a smaller section within the key, known as the restricted area.
The main purpose of the restricted area is to stop defenders, particularly help defenders, from attempting to draw offensive fouls on players who were in the process of driving to the basket or attempting a layup/dunk.
Moreover, based on NBA shot chart terminology, any area in which a three-point shot could be attempted, with the exception of the corners, is known as an above the break 3.
Related : Key (Basketball) – Wikipedia
Also, when executing any particular basketball offensive strategy or tactic, players can typically fill (or occupy) any of the specified areas (or spots) on the court, which does not include the key.
However, players should fill the areas which will allow the players to be spaced apart at least 12 to 15 feet from each other. If players are not at least 12 feet apart, then this is usually representative of bad spacing.
For example, if one player fills the right side low post, then another player should not fill the right side short corner (at least most of the time) because those two areas on very close to each other.
Additionally, players should not try to fill the same area at the same time. As another example, if one player fills the right side wing, then another player should not try to fill (or stand near) that same area.
If this occurs, then one defender could potentially guard both players on offense, which in turn, would limit the offensive team’s ability to score effectively and efficiently.
On the other hand, it is not an issue if players occupy the same area but on both sides of the court.
For example, if one player fills the right side high post elbow but another player fills the left side high post elbow, then this is not a problem because both players are at least 12 to 15 feet apart from each other. This is representative of good spacing.
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What are the primary basic skills for basketball offense
The primary basic skills for basketball offense are cutting, dribbling, passing, screening, and shooting.
Each player should develop a solid foundation and fundamental understanding of the basic skills.
It should also be noted that certain players might become more proficient at certain skills than other players. However, as long as each player is able to grasp the essential concepts of the primary skills, it will generally not be as challenging for the players to execute any particular basketball offensive plan.
Cutting
Basketball cutting is one of the primary skills utilized in a variety of offensive strategies such as the 5 out motion offense which heavily focuses on cutting to the basket or the Princeton offense which features the backdoor cut as one of its elementary actions.
What makes cutting such an important concept to consider for any basketball offense is simply that the defense cannot stop two actions at the same time.
In other words, the defense will typically be concerned with on-ball action such as dribble penetration which allows the offense to execute off-ball action such as cutting.
Therefore, when an offensive player executes a cut, it could lead to potential scoring opportunities, either near the basket or from the perimeter.
Dribbling
Basketball dribbling is another primary basic skill and it occurs when a player with the ball, also known as the ball handler, bounces the ball up and down on the floor with one hand.
Dribbling is important because it allows the players to advance the ball towards the basket when passing may not be available or necessary such as during a live turnover fast break opportunity.
Additionally, in some instances, dribbling could help break down defenders to generate scoring options by executing a variety of dribble moves such as the crossover dribble, between the legs dribble, behind the back dribble, the in-and-out dribble, and the spin move.
Furthermore, these dribble moves could also be utilized as combinations such as the double crossover, the between the legs + crossover dribble, the between the legs + behind the back dribble, and the double behind the back dribble to further break down defenders.
There are also advanced dribble moves such as the Shammgod move, popularized by former professional basketball player, God Shammgod, or the Yo-Yo dribble, utilized in recent years by players such as NBA point guard, Chris Paul.
Also, it should be noted that there are few rules that players have to adhere to when dribbling and violation of these rules will result in a turnover to the opposing team. The common dribbling violations are called traveling, double dribble, and carrying.
Traveling
A traveling violation typically occurs when a player in possession of the ball (i.e. the ball handler) takes more than two steps without dribbling the ball on the floor.
Additionally, if a player receives the ball without dribbling but that same player picks up one foot off the ground, then the other foot is considered the pivot foot. From that point, the player can turn in any direction on that pivot foot but if the player picks up or slides that pivot foot without dribbling first, then this is also considered a travel.
This pivot rule also applies to the two-footed jump stop, particularly once the player has gathered the ball after dribbling.
For example, if a player dribbles toward the basket and executes a two-footed jump stop, then the player has not quite established a pivot foot at that point. Afterwards, the player could choose either foot as the pivot.
Furthermore, a player cannot travel while dribbling. In other words, a player can technically take more than two steps while dribbling such as with a stutter step dribble move and it is not considered a traveling violation.
Double dribble
A double dribble violation typically occurs when a player ends their dribble by allowing the ball to rest in one or both hands, but then dribbles the ball again.
Furthermore, if a player receives the ball from a teammate but fumbles the pass through their hands in which the ball bounces to the floor, then the player is still allowed to dribble the ball and this is not considered a double dribble.
This type of action is legal because the player technically never gained full control of the ball, although the fumbled pass may have looked like the player took at least one dribble.
Carrying
A carrying violation, sometimes referred to as palming, occurs if a player puts their hand underneath the ball while dribbling or the player grips the ball while dribbling in a way that changes the natural downward trajectory of the ball.
For example, a player cannot dribble the ball to the floor, then grip the ball in their hand with their fingertips as it bounces back up. In other words, the player cannot palm the ball as a way to unnaturally control it and afterwards, dribble the ball again. This would be considered a carrying violation.
Passing
Basketball passing is yet another essential skill to learn because if players are not able to make accurate and/or timely passes, then the offense will most likely become stagnant.
When that occurs, it will most certainly become very difficult for the offensive team to generate high percentage shots.
In addition, little to no passing, especially without ball reversal, causes the defenders to remain stationary which is beneficial to the defense.
On the other hand, a team that constantly executes ball movement will usually break down the defense. Once a defensive breakdown occurs, the offensive team will gain access to high quality shots either near the rim or from the perimeter.
The main fundamental passes used within basketball include the chest pass, the bounce pass, the overhead pass, and sometimes, the baseball pass.
Furthermore, the skip pass or the pitch ahead pass could also be used as well. Additionally, some advanced players can utilize fancier passes such as the behind the back pass or the between the legs pass.
Additionally, players should be aware of the so-called self pass rule violation. Basically, a player cannot pass the ball (presumably in the air) and catch it without the ball touching another player on the court, backboard, or the basket ring.
According to Rule 10, Section XIII.g, of the Official NBA rule book, this is considered to be a traveling violation.
However, it should be noted that a player can bounce the ball off an opposing player’s body and then retrieve the ball before the defender is able to get to it.
For example, if the offensive player were to pick up their dribble for whatever reason, that same player could bounce the ball off the leg of the opposing defender and then retrieve the ball as a method of re-establishing another opportunity to dribble.
In somewhat similar fashion, if the offensive player is standing out of bounds during a throw in sequence such as after a timeout or during some other dead ball situation that requires the ball to be thrown in from out of bounds, then the offensive player could bounce the ball off the inbound defender’s body such as the back or leg, provided that same offensive player is able to step inbound onto the court before retrieving the ball.
These variations of so-called self passes are legal action because the ball touched another player on the court.
Screening
Basketball Screening is yet another foundational offensive skill that players should learn and utilize.
Essentially, there are various types of basketball screens which could consist of the on-ball screen typically used in pick and roll action or off-ball screens such as the down screen or cross screen.
With either type of the screen, the offense would be able to limit the effectiveness of the defense and potentially create scoring opportunities on the perimeter or close to the basket.
Furthermore, offensive sequences with little to no screening would inevitably become stagnant as the defense could basically contain their respective assignments or receive help from another teammate in the event of dribble penetration.
Additionally, screens could help create mismatches and if that occurs, then this could bring forth another possible advantage for the offense.
For example, if a post player on defense becomes matched up with an offensive guard near the perimeter, then the guard could potentially gain an advantage by executing a speedy dribble move against the bigger and/or slower post defender.
In similar fashion, if a guard on defense becomes matched up with an offensive post player near the low post block, then the post player could possibly gain the advantage by using size and/or strength to score near the basket with a low post move.
Also, players should be mindful not to commit an illegal screen which is a rule violation. An illegal screen, also known as a moving screen, occurs when the screening player moves during the moment of contact with the defender.
In other words, if the screener does not give the defender enough time or space (usually at least one step) to reasonably avoid the screen, then this would be considered an illegal screen.
Additionally, if a screener extends their legs or arms, especially during the moment of contact with the defender, then this is also an illegal screen.
Essentially, the screener has to stay within their own vertical plane while setting the screen or this would be considered illegal screening action.
Furthermore, in the case of an on-ball screen (also called a pick), if the ball handler dribbles towards the screener and the defender makes contact with the screener before the screener fully established a stationary position, then the screener would still be called for an illegal screen.
Also, in the case of an off-ball screen such as a down screen, if the defender attempts to quickly avoid the screen prior to the moment of contact, then the screener could technically move to re-establish the screen as long as the movement occurs before the moment of contact.
However, according to Rule 10, Section XIV of the Official NBA rule book, a screener cannot step out of bounds to set a screen on a defender, particularly on the baseline in the frontcourt.
For example, if a screener is setting a pin down screen near the baseline but the defender attempts to avoid the screen by stepping out of bounds, then the screener cannot step out of bounds to re-establish the screen, even if the screen occurs before the moment of contact. In that instance, it would be considered an illegal screen.
Related : Off Ball Screens – NBA Video Rulebook
Shooting
Basketball shooting is arguably the most important offensive skill to consider because if a team does not shoot or cannot shoot, then that team will not score many points.
Additionally, by implementing the other basic skills of cutting, dribbling, passing, and screening, an offensive team could generate the most efficient shots.
Furthermore, shooting is important against zone defenses which seek to take away scoring options around the basket as well as limit the effectiveness of offensive-minded post players.
Therefore, it is essential that a team includes at least one or two shooters on the court at all times on offense.
The point of having at least one or two shooters is to give the offense a chance to still score if the defense runs a zone as mentioned previously or if the offensive play breaks down and the team needs a basket such as at the end of the shot clock or at the end of a game’s quarter or half.
However, if a team does happen to have many non-shooters on the roster, then that team should give tremendous effort on defense to make up for the lack of shooting.
The main types of shots a team could take for scoring purposes include layups at the basket, low post shots near the basket, floaters typically in the key near the dotted half-circle, mid-range shots inside the three-point arc, three-point shots, and free throws.
Most of the time, players on offense should try to make layups, floaters or get the ball inside to the post players whenever possible.
However, the defense will usually try to take away those easy scoring options so it is very important that teams can make mid-range shots or three-pointers when those options become necessary.
Furthermore, in terms of shooting, it is important for players to practice free throws as much as possible because free throws can help win games.
Essentially, the repetitions from practicing free throws can help build up muscle memory so when each player steps to the line, they do not think too much or preferably at all about shooting and it becomes more of an automatic process.
Players that would like to learn more about shooting in general could look into Shooting and Triple Threat by Ganon Baker. This resource emphasizes basic shooting mechanics, demonstrates various shooting drills, and teaches players how to create scoring options from the triple threat position.
Players that are interested in free throw shooting can check out Advanced Free Throw Shooting by Jay Hernandez.
What are the standard player positions for basketball offense
The standard player positions for basketball offense are known as the point guard, shooting guard, small forward, power forward, and center. Also, each position typically has different roles and responsibilities, although some positions could have overlap between them.
Point Guard
The point guard is usually the primary ball handler and play caller that typically initiates the offensive half court set.
Also, the point guard generally possesses an above average basketball IQ, speed, quickness, as well as dribbling, passing, perimeter shooting, and leadership skills.
Furthermore, there are generally two types of point guards : scoring point guards that excel at scoring the ball and facilitator point guards that are good at making plays for other teammates.
Additionally, the point guard is typically the smallest player on the court in terms of height but this is not always the case.
Shooting Guard
The shooting guard is generally taller than the point guard but usually, a few inches shorter than the small forward. Additionally, the shooting guard is generally the team’s best outside shooter, especially from three-point range.
Also, the shooting guard could potentially excel at driving to the basket and scoring through contact. Furthermore, the shooting guard typically possesses very good ball handling and dribbling skills for their position.
Small Forward
The small forward is typically taller and/or longer than the shooting guard but generally, a few inches shorter than the power forward. Also, the small forward usually has above average traits in rebounding and defense.
In addition to that, the small forward usually possesses good basketball IQ, dribbling skills, and this player can generally shoot from the perimeter or finish at the rim, similar to the shooting guard.
Power Forward
The power forward is generally taller than the small forward and typically has above average rebounding skills.
Also, the power forward could possess an excellent low post skill set which helps them to score around the basket.
Furthermore, the power forward could also have the ability to shoot from the mid-range or three-point range.
Center
The center is typically the tallest player on the court and generally scores around the basket by way of low post moves, dunks, and put-back shots.
Additionally, the center is usually above average at blocking shots and gathering offensive and defensive rebounds.
Furthermore, some centers could also shoot from the mid-range and/or three-point range which increases their offensive versatility.
What are types of basketball offense
The types of basketball offense consist of various categories of offensive formations, patterns, or distinctive systems which also include a common characteristic of creating scoring opportunities to ultimately win basketball games.
The names of the various categories for the different types are generally known as set offense, zone offense, press offense, transition offense, continuity offense, motion offense, and inbound plays.
Set Offense
A set offense features specific plays (also known as set plays), offensive strategies, or quick hitters that are typically designed to create scoring opportunities for the team’s best players.
Additionally, a set offense usually implements a certain offensive formation during the initial phase of the offense.
For example, the box offense strategy, (which is also a set offense), starts with one player at the top and four additional players near the low posts and high posts elbows.
When each of the four players near the various posts fill those areas, the formation looks similar to a box, hence its name.
Furthermore, a set offense usually consists of a predetermined path (e.g. get the ball to the best three-point shooters or low post players) but if that path is unsuccessful for whatever reason, then the set generally has to start over again or the team has to implement another set.
Zone Offense
A zone offense consists of one or more offensive strategies formulated to beat one or more types of zone defense.
As an example, the short corner zone offense could be implemented against the 2-3 zone defense by attacking its soft spots, which of course, are the short corners.
Press Offense
A press offense, also referred to as a press break, includes specific plays and formations that are designed to counter against one or more press defenses, particularly in the full court.
Transition Offense
A transition offense, also generally referred to as a fast break, comprises special offensive strategies known as primary break, secondary break, or the numbered fast break.
The main objective of transition offense is to score points quickly and efficiently, particularly during the transition from defense to offense and before the opposing team can protect their own basket, adequately match up, or implement complete defensive formations.
Continuity Offense
A continuity offense incorporates specific patterns of cuts, screens, passes, or dribble actions, which are then executed in a continuous manner on both sides of the floor until the offensive team procures the best available shot near the basket or from the perimeter.
Motion Offense
A motion offense is devised of unique offensive strategies which typically consist of certain rules or principles that players should follow to generate scoring opportunities near the basket or from the perimeter.
Additionally, many motion offenses can utilize elements of set offenses to produce scoring options for the team’s best players.
However, unlike set offenses, which are generally more rigid, the players involved in a motion offense can usually read the defense and react accordingly.
Furthermore, most motion offenses are also flexible enough to perform similar to continuity offenses as well.
Therefore, if the offensive team is not able to score with the initial actions of the motion offense, then that same team could potentially execute the offensive action once more as a continuity pattern.
Inbound Plays
Inbound plays occur when an offensive player is able to execute a throw-in while standing behind a sideline or baseline.
Moreover, inbound plays typically occur after dead ball situations and they are usually ran for the team’s best players, similar to set offenses.
What are strategies of basketball offense
Strategies of basketball offense are essentially planned, structured actions, styles, or systems implemented by the coaching staff and generally utilized by all five offensive players on the floor to reach the ultimate objective of scoring points.
Additionally, various strategies could be associated with the different types of basketball offense and each strategy could utilize one or more tactics to achieve success.
For example, the Horns offense is a strategy that is associated with the primary set offense type.
It is because the Horns offense uses half court set plays which are typically predetermined to create scoring opportunities for the team’s best players.
As another example, the 5 out motion offense is a strategy that is associated with motion offense as well as continuity offense.
It is because the 5 out motion offense is a read and react system, it consists of certain rules for the players, and it can be implemented as a continuity pattern.
1-4 High Offense
The 1-4 high offense is a basketball offensive strategy that primarily utilizes the high post as well as the wing areas to create scoring opportunities near the basket or from the perimeter, typically with a variety of basketball cuts and/or basketball screens.
The initial formation of the 1-4 high offense consists of an offensive player with the ball at the top, two players near the wing areas, and two players near the high post elbow areas.
1-4 Press Break
The 1-4 press break is a basketball offensive strategy that can be used as a counter against press defenses such as the 1-2-1-1 diamond press, the 2-2-1 press, the 1-2-2 press or a full court man to man press.
2 Out 3 In Motion Offense
The 2 out 3 in motion offense is a basketball offensive strategy that emphasizes ball movement, post split action, and continuity patterns to create scoring opportunities near the basket or from the perimeter.
The formation of the 2 out 3 in motion offense includes two players above (or outside) the free throw line extended area and three players below (or inside) the free throw line extended area.
3 Out 2 In Motion Offense
The 3 out 2 in motion offense is a basketball offensive strategy that seeks to create multiple scoring opportunities through the use of set plays as well as offensive actions such as basketball screens, basketball cuts, continuity patterns and pick and roll options among others.
The formation of the 3 out 2 in motion offense begins with three perimeter players near the tops and wings as well as two players near the low post blocks.
4 Out 1 In Motion Offense
The 4 out 1 in motion offense is a basketball offensive strategy that creates scoring opportunities via a variety of sequences such as basketball cuts, basketball screens, and dribble drive action.
Also, the typical formation of the 4 out 1 in motion offense starts with two players in the slot areas near the top, two players on the wings (or the corners in some instances), and another player near the low post.
5 Out Motion Offense
The 5 out motion offense is a basketball offensive strategy that utilizes the fundamental skills of passing, cutting, and screening as well as continuity patterns to create scoring opportunities, typically near the basket or from the perimeter.
Within the 5 out motion offense, each player should fill one of the perimeter areas of the top, wings, or corners.
Attack and React Offense
The Attack and React offense is a basketball offensive strategy, developed by Andrew Grantz that utilizes the fundamental principles of dribble drive, read and react, and motion offense to create scoring opportunities near the basket or from the perimeter.
The initial formation begins in a wide 4 out 1 in configuration. Two players should fill the slots at the top, two players should fill the corners, and one additional player should fill the low post block on the same side of the ball.
Blocker Mover Offense
The Blocker Mover offense is a basketball offensive strategy developed by Dick Bennett and utilized in recent years by his son, Tony Bennett, the current head coach for the University of Virginia Cavaliers men’s basketball team.
It typically begins in a 3 out 2 in formation and features two players known as blockers and three players referred to as movers.
The blockers will set screens while the movers will use those screens. The primary screens that are set by the blockers include the pin down screen, flare screen, and sometimes, the on-ball screen.
If the various screening actions are successful, then scoring opportunities could be produced from the perimeter or near the basket.
Box Offense
The box offense is a basketball offensive strategy that utilizes a variety of off-ball and on-ball screens to create scoring opportunities, particularly for the team’s best scorers.
The formation of the box offense is a player at the top, two players near the high posts, and two more players near the low posts.
Circle Offense
The circle offense is a basketball offensive strategy that utilizes cuts and continuity patterns to create scoring opportunities near the basket.
Additionally, the circle offense features five players that should fill the perimeter spots near the top, the wings, and the corners, similar to the standard 5 out motion offense.
Dribble Drive Motion Offense
The Dribble Drive Motion offense is a basketball offensive strategy developed by Vance Walberg that emphasizes spreading the floor and aggressively dribbling into the gaps of the defense to create scoring opportunities near the basket or from the perimeter, particularly behind the three-point arc.
Flex Offense
The flex offense is a basketball offensive strategy that creates scoring opportunities near the basket or from the perimeter by way of two types of basketball screens known as the flex screen and the down screen.
Hawk Offense
The Hawk offense is a basketball offensive strategy that utilizes various basketball screens such as a high post screen and stagger screens to create scoring opportunities near the basket or from the perimeter.
Horns Offense
The Horns offense is a basketball offensive strategy which emphasizes spacing to create scoring opportunities near the basket or from the perimeter by way of various actions such as basketball screens and dribble handoffs.
The initial formation of the Horns offense begins with a primary ball handler at the top, two players near the high posts, and two additional players in the corners.
Princeton Offense
The Princeton offense is a basketball offensive strategy which utilizes the fundamental skills of cutting, dribbling, passing, screening, and shooting as well as three unique series of actions known as Chin, Low and Point to create scoring opportunities near the basket or from the perimeter.
Additionally, the Princeton offense typically begins with two guards near the slot areas, two wing players, and one additional player near the high post or low post.
Shuffle Offense
The shuffle offense is a basketball offensive strategy that utilizes the shuffle cut, certain types of basketball screens, and a possible continuity pattern to create scoring opportunities near the basket or near the perimeter.
Stack Offense
The Stack offense is a basketball offensive strategy that begins with a stack formation which also includes a variety of basketball screens to produce multiple scoring options for the offensive team’s best players.
Swing Offense
The Swing offense is a basketball offensive strategy developed and popularized by Bo Ryan during his time as the head men’s basketball coach at the University of Wisconsin.
Additionally, the Swing offense begins with a 4 out 1 in formation and it incorporates basketball screens, ball reversal, and continuity patterns to generate various scoring options.
Triangle Offense
The triangle offense is a basketball offensive strategy in which players form a sideline triangle on one side of the court and a two-man game on the opposite side to create scoring opportunities via the use of various offensive actions.
UCLA Offense
The UCLA offense is a basketball offensive strategy created and popularized by John Wooden during his time as the head coach of the UCLA Bruins men’s basketball team.
Moreover, the UCLA offense focuses on the fundamentals of passing, screening, and cutting to create various scoring opportunities, primarily near the basket but also from the perimeter.
Wheel Offense
The Wheel offense is a basketball offensive strategy developed by Garland Pinholster during his time as the head coach at Oglethorpe University in the 1950s.
It features cutting and screening actions as well as continuity patterns to produce scoring opportunities near the basket or from the perimeter.
Primary Break
The primary break is a basketball offensive strategy that occurs as soon as one particular team transitions from defense to offense by gaining possession of the ball, either by way of a live-ball turnover, a missed shot, or a made basket by the opposing team.
Additionally, the primary break emphasizes scoring as quickly as possible, especially near the basket, before the defense is able to completely match up with their respective assignments.
Secondary Break
The secondary break is a basketball offensive strategy that occurs after the defensive team is able to prevent primary break.
Additionally, all five defenders have not entered into the frontcourt or all five defenders in the frontcourt are not evenly matched up with proper assignments.
As a result of that inadequate defensive formation, the offensive team could counter with the secondary break to generate scoring opportunities near the basket or from the perimeter.
Numbered Fast Break
The numbered fast break is a basketball offensive strategy which seeks to create quick scoring opportunities via transition offense principles and by designating certain numbers and specific roles to each of the five players.
What are tactics of basketball offense
Tactics of basketball offense are effective and practical actions which are executed to produce an advantageous outcome for the team as a whole.
Additionally, basketball offensive tactics are generally performed by at least two or three players at any specific time and they are typically a part of a larger overall basketball strategy.
The usual tactics implemented within basketball offense include pick and roll, pick and pop, pass and cut, pass and screen away, high low, dribble handoffs, ball reversal, and screen the screener.
Pick and Roll
The pick and roll, also known as an on-ball screen, is one of the most common offensive tactics utilized in the game of basketball.
The pick and roll occurs when a player without the ball gets close to a player with the ball to set a pick. Afterwards, the player without the ball which set the pick then rolls to the basket.
Following that, the player with the ball could use the screen and then pass the ball to the player that rolled to the basket. From that point, the player that rolled to the basket could receive the ball if open and score near the rim.
Pick and Pop
The pick and pop is a variation of the pick and roll and it could be implemented as an alternative tactic to create additional scoring options within basketball offense.
In the pick and pop sequence, instead of rolling to the basket, the player that set the screen should pop out to an area on the perimeter, usually near the top or the wings.
Pass and Cut
The pass and cut action is a simple tactic that could be used in any particular basketball offensive strategy or set offense.
As the name implies, an offensive player with the ball simply passes it to a teammate and then cuts to the basket or to another open area of the court.
One basic advantage of passing and cutting is that it keeps the offensive players in constant motion. This, in turn, could lead to potential defensive breakdowns and subsequent scoring opportunities.
Pass and Screen Away
The pass and screen away action is another basic tactic that could be implemented within a number of basketball offensive strategies or set offenses.
As the name implies, an offensive player with the ball simply passes it to a teammate and afterwards, that same passing player sets a screen away from the ball for another teammate.
High Low
The high low action is a basketball tactic that can be used by offensive teams to create easy scoring opportunities near the basket.
To execute the high low action, one offensive player fills the top or high post while another player fills the low post block.
Following that, the player in the high post or at the top receives the ball and then the other player near the low post block quickly cuts into the lane around the basket.
Afterwards, the player near the basket receives the ball from the player at the top or high post and can quickly score at the rim with a layup or dunk.
Dribble Handoff
The dribble handoff is a basketball offensive tactic in which a player with the ball will dribble towards a teammate and then handoff the ball to that same teammate.
The dribble handoff could be utilized to release defensive pressure or as a way to create scoring opportunities for the player receiving the ball, either at the rim or from the perimeter.
Ball Reversal
Ball reversal is a common basketball offensive tactic which occurs when the ball gets passed from one side of the court to the other side, typically from the wings to the top or via skip passes.
Screen the Screener
Screen the screener is a basketball offensive tactic which occurs when one player receives a screen after setting a screen for another teammate.
This simple screening action could cause defensive breakdowns, which in turn, could lead to multiple scoring options for the offense.
What are examples of scoring plays for basketball offense
1-4 Low
This is a quick hitting 1-4 low set play that could create scoring options for the team’s post players. To start, 1 dribbles towards the left side wing via the ball screen set by 4.
Immediately following that, 4 cuts to the right side wing via the flare screen set by 5 who also rolls to the basket.
Next, 4 receives the skip pass over the top from 1 and can take the three-point jump shot if open.
Additionally, 5 could receive the ball from 1 as a secondary option, shown with the dotted gray arrow. Afterwards, 5 could score near the basket.
Baseline
This is an example of a baseline runner set play derived from the Mississippi State women’s basketball team that could produce a jump shot for the team’s best shooter.
To start, 1 dribbles toward the right side wing to execute a dribble hand-off with 2.
Next, 2 dribbles toward the left slot area while 1 cuts across to the left side corner via the screens set by 4 and 5.
Additionally, 3 could set a quick brush screen if the defender which covers 1 decides to cheat over the top of the screen.
After that, 3 continues the cut across to the right side wing area. As that happens, 1 receives the ball from 2 and takes the open jump shot.
Elbow
This is a quick hitting set derived from the Cleveland Cavaliers NBA team that could create a scoring opportunity near the basket.
To start, 1 dribbles toward the left side wing and after that, 3 receives the ball at the elbow. Next, 4 cuts to the basket via a wide pin down screen set by 1.
Following that, 4 receives the ball from 3 and scores near the basket.
Floppy
This is a quick hitting set derived from the Houston Cougars men’s basketball team which could create an open jump shot for the team’s best shooters.
To begin, 2 cuts to the left side wing via the cross screen set by 3 in addition to the pin down screen set by 4.
As that happens, 3 cuts to the right side wing via the pin down screen set by 5. Following that, 2 or 3 could receive the ball from 1 and take open jump shots.
High Low – Part 1
This is an example of a high low set which focuses on getting the ball to the team’s best low post player. To begin, 2 receives the ball from 1 and after that, 1 cuts through to the left side corner.
As that happens, 5 cuts to the right side low post block via the cross screen set by 4.
Next, 4 cuts up to the top after setting the screen.
From that point, 5 could receive the ball from 2 and score with a low post move or 2 could reverse the ball to 4 at the top.
High Low – Part 2
If 4 receives the ball, then 5 could duck into the lane. After that occurs, 5 could receive the ball from 4 to complete the high low action. From there, 5 could score near the basket with a low post move.
If 5 does not receive the ball, then 4 could reverse the ball to 3. Next, 5 could cut to the left side low post block and receive the ball from 3. Following that, 5 could score with a low post move.
Weave – Part 1
This is an example of a dribble weave derived from the Golden State Warriors with spread pick and roll action. To begin, 4 receives the ball from 1 who then cuts through to the left side corner.
Next, 4 dribbles toward the right side wing to execute the dribble hand-off with 3. After that, 3 dribbles back toward the top.
At the same time, 4 continues the cut to the right side corner while 5 cuts across from the left side elbow to the right side elbow.
Weave – Part 2
3 continues to dribble toward the left side wing to execute the dribble hand-off with 2. Following that, 2 dribbles back toward the top and then receives a ball screen from 5.
After setting the pick, 5 rolls to the basket and could receive the ball from 2 if open. Additionally, 2 could take the open jump shot or pass to 4 if open.
Attack in basketball. Basics | Basketball coach
Offense is the basic part of basketball, which allows you to score points and fight for the desired championship in the match. In an official basketball game lasting 40 minutes, each team makes an average of about 100 attacks per match. There are various variations of basketball offense, however, in this article we will focus on the basic concepts and basic classification.
There are two main offensive tactics in basketball: positional and fast. Their difference lies in the speed of the attack. A quick attack is more typical for the NBA, where the game is more based on the individual skill of the players, while in European basketball it is more common to carry out long positional attacks.
However, one cannot be categorical in this division, since throughout the game, both in Europe and in the USA, many swift and positional attacks are implemented.
Fast break implies a lightning transfer of the ball to the opponent's half and an immediate attack with the possibility of one or two quick passes. Teams choose this technique of attack in different cases. Most often this is due to lagging behind the opponent on points and lack of time. In addition, the individual skill of the players and the advantage in speed can force the coach to use the “hit-and-run” tactic.
Positional attack , on the other hand, includes calmly transferring the ball to the opponent's half, placing players, using combinations or individual actions. In fact, a positional attack is considered more competent, deep in a basketball way. Note that the higher the level of a team's play, the more "positional" its offense is. However, the coach of the team may change the scheme on purpose.
Throughout the game, most attacks take place precisely in a positional manner. This is due to the fact that the opponent has time to return to the defense and most often starts a tight defense from his own half, and also because it is quite difficult to physically play a match in a constant rhythm of a fast attack.
Positional attack in basketball is a bit like waging war. each player performs certain, however, carefully coordinated actions. The five attacking players distribute their functions as follows:
- first number (defender, point guard). This player takes a position at the top of the court, usually in the center near the middle of the field. His task is to get the ball out of his own half when moving from defense, to command a certain combination, to find a partner with a pass or to make a throw.
- second number (attacking defender). This position also provides for the game at the top. The functions of the second number are to develop an attack, participate in combination or individual attacking actions of the team.
- third, fourth number (forwards). Forwards take positions in the corner of the court, with the possibility of being located in the center, under the ring, when playing with a double center. The most common option is to have "light" and "heavy" forwards on the court, where a more massive player helps to attack from the center, and a lighter one focuses on throws and passes.
- fifth number (center). The center, as a rule, plays under the ring, in the area of the three-second zone. The center usually consists of massive and tall players who, due to physical data, can fight for rebounding in attack, perform throws from under the ring, and cut off defenders during screenings.
This arrangement of players is the most popular and generally accepted. However, there is a lot of variation in positions depending on the style of the players, the specifics of the defense and the goals pursued by the team. The main variations of the traditional arrangement include the “light” and “heavy” fives on the court.
In the first case, the team releases more mobile players instead of a center and, possibly, a “heavy” forward. With this approach, there is an emphasis on the performance of high-speed combinations, passes under the basket and long-range shots. The reverse side of the coin is the game of "heavy" five. In particular, it uses the advantage in height, weight and accentuated play under the ring at the expense of "big players". A variation of the “heavy” five is a game with a double center (a heavy forward takes a position not on the edge of the site, but under the ring along with the center).
Basketball is a very smart sport. There are many combinations and strategies for playing the game. In this article, we looked at the basics of attacking in basketball. Briefly summarize what has been written: attack in basketball is a fundamental element. There are two main types of attack in basketball: swift and positional. Rapid - instant transition from defense to attack, fast attack with a minimum number of passes at speed.
Positional attack - a slower attack, however, using combinational elements. With a positional attack, the players take their positions and perform their assigned functions.
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Basketball tactics
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Basketball is a game with clearly defined offensive tactics. In basketball, it is easier to successfully attack than to defend. This game is characterized by a quick transition from attack to defense, and vice versa.
Another characteristic feature is that all 5 players participate in both attack and defense. Each of the players must perform well as an attacker and defender.
A peculiar exception in attack is the center. This is usually the tallest player on the team, with excellent tactics and technique. He is always in the center of the attack near the basket, in the free throw area.
In all favorable situations, the post is passed the ball for a shot into the basket or he passes the ball to another athlete who is in a better position.
Individual and group tactics of defense and attack is an important prerequisite for the collective tactics of the entire team.
Basketball: attack.
The main task is to get closer to the basket than the opponent, with or without the ball, or to take positions on the court from which it would be easy to support the collective action of the whole team. The use of feints is recommended. The ball must be passed quickly, strongly, accurately and confidently.
When catching the ball, the athlete runs towards him. Due to the fact that dribbling slows down the game, it should be used as little as possible and only in cases where it can move closer to the basket or if it is part of a certain tactical combination. There are many types of throwing the ball into the basket, which is often accompanied by deceptive movements.
Basketball: defense.
Defenders must choose a position in which they have the maximum opportunity to prevent an opponent from reaching the basket.
Therefore, the defenders are constantly between the opponent and the basket, because even small miscalculations in the actions of the defenders give the opponent significant tactical advantages.
In addition, the defender must be at such a distance from the opponent that, firstly, he cannot go around him and, secondly, so that the defender can prevent the opponent from making a long-range throw. The farther the opposing attacker is from the basket, the further away the defender is from him.
Due to the fact that, according to the rules, you cannot take the ball from an opponent during an attack, many attempts by defenders to intercept the ball during a pass lead to serious tactical errors. Only after a shot on the basket can you intercept the ball from the opponent, so the athletes, after an unsuccessful throw of the opponent, should make the most of the technique of fighting for the ball.
Basketball: group tactics.
Group tactics are various combinations of attack and defense.
It involves a certain coordinated action between 2-3 team players. For attack, passing the ball, entering a free place, crossing, screening are typical, and for defense, a safety net or switching.
Basketball: team tactics.
Collective attack tactics have two main forms: a rush attack and a positional attack. Both forms of attack, especially the positional attack, can be played in a variety of ways.
Basketball: fast attack.
Rapid attack is used in most cases as a counterattack after the team has gained possession of the ball. Before the opponent sets up his defense (1-3 people), the players of the attacking team quickly run forward to create an advantage in strength, and complete this combination after several passes (5-6) with the help of the rest of the players with a successful shot into the basket.
Basketball: positional attack.
If the opponent managed to build a defense correctly and the swift attack was not successful, then a positional attack is used.
In this case, the team tries to create a corridor in the opponent's defense with the help of innings, crossing with or without the ball, with the help of screens in order to successfully complete the attack.
Screens tie down the opponent's defense for a while if the attacker is between the basket and the opponent's defender and he has no way to prevent the player from advancing towards the basket. The preparatory phase of the attack is often repeated, because the opponent's defenders prevent the team from using favorable moments for the throw.
Basketball: collective defense tactics.
Differentiate between personal protection and zone protection.
Basketball: personal protection.
Each player "patronizes" a certain player from the opposing team. This type of protection can be carried out throughout the court or only in the free throw area (complex marking). In complex marking, the defending team's defender leaves the free throw area to prevent the opponent from making a long-range shot.
Basketball: zone protection.
Zone protection has common features with complex guarding. All team members collectively defend the free throw area in order to prevent close shots.
Each player is assigned a certain area on the court. The formation is as follows: one player each to the right and left of the free throw area at the level of the foul line. Due to the fact that passive zone defense has many negative aspects, both tactical and methodological, it is extremely rarely used in its pure form.
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