The chances are good that you will come across a few pressing teams during the season. The chances are even better that you will be pressed if you are ahead in the waning moments of a close game. Are your players prepared? You may have installed a press break offense to help them counter a pressing defense, but have you taught them HOW to break a press? Are they aware of the nuances that will allow them to more easily break and attack pressure defense? The following 6 tips can be applied when … [Read more...]
7 Principles for Attacking Half Court Zone Defenses
The following 7 strategies are necessary and helpful when attacking zone defenses. Regardless of the zone defense formation, you should be teaching your players these concepts so they will understand zone defense weaknesses and learn to be successful against zones. Rapid Ball Movement The basketball should be moved quickly with the pass. Passes can be made much faster than the zone can shift; therefore, openings will be found against even the toughest of zones. Utilize skip passes when … [Read more...]
General Rules for Your Basketball Team Offense
Regardless of the offensive system you utilize, it should include some basic rules. If your players can learn and execute these rules, they will be able to adapt to any system and style. The following general rules and principles should be a part of any team offense. Move with a purpose to an open area and be ready to receive or make a pass. Always look for a teammate closer to the basket. Always be ready to receive a pass. Give a target to receive a pass--don't keep your hands down. Catch … [Read more...]
Planning Your Basketball Team Offense
As a coach, it is up to you to plan and implement an offensive system that your players will not only be able to execute effectively, but will also give them a degree of success. The system may even need to change from year to year. Some years you may have players that are big and strong but slow. Other years you may be a small and quick team. You will need to determine what offensive system will give you the best chance at success. It is also important to realize that no matter what type of … [Read more...]
Traits of a Successful Offensive Play
No matter your offensive philosophy, the following characteristics should be a part of every set you design or utilize. It makes no difference if you like to slow the game down or speed it up; if you run a motion or a continuity set; if you like a passing game or the dribble-drive ... the objective is always the same -- SCORE! If you incorporate these 7 traits into your offensive system, you will improve your scoring opportunities! Get a good shot from a good shooter where he is comfortable … [Read more...]
15 Considerations for Choosing Your Basketball Offense
The following 15 points should be carefully considered when you need to choose an offense for your team. Whether you choose to run some sort of 'set' offense or decide to run a motion-style or free-lance offense, all offenses should effectively be able to utilize and implement the ideas below. Ultimately, the job of the offense is to score. The 15 ideas below will help you consider how best to score. The offense and plays should be able to begin from both sides of the court. If it has many … [Read more...]