We play in a league that is dominated by zone defense. Coaches play zone because they want to win. Zone defenses can limit penetration, force some teams into outside shots, limit the star player, discourage the pick-and-roll, protect players in foul trouble, and facilitate transition.
We have a pair of games this weekend that have no bearing on our playoff seeding and I hope that we face a lot of zone defense.
What principles must players know about zone offense?
- The first way to beat the zone is in transition. Because we play extended (end-to-end) defense, we always look for offense from defense.
- Distort (deform) the zone. Shot fakes move the zone up (north and south) and pass fakes move the zone east and west.
- Understand the weak areas of the zone. For example, against the 1-2-2 (3-2), the middle is vulnerable.
- Zone defenses can have rebounding weakness. Aggressive offensive rebounding can work.
- Position low players below the zone, making them 'invisible'. That facilitates flashing into open areas.
- Move the ball quickly. Think '2 second rule'.
- Dribble into gaps with the idea of drawing to defenders and opening up a pass.
- Reverse the ball.
- Attack weak defenders. You get to choose where to attack.
- Screen. Screens can open up areas both ball side and help side (if you can throw over the top or reverse the ball quickly).
- Be aware that post up are still available when you have the dominant bigs.
Across
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At the end of the day, you gotta finish.