“All warfare is based on deception. Hence, when we are able to attack, we must seem unable; when using our forces, we must appear inactive; when we are near, we must make the enemy believe we are far away; when far away, we must make him believe we are near.” ― Sun Tzu, The Art of War
1. Bobby Knight advocated setting up in zone, yet playing man.
2. Defensively, bait bad passes by appearing passive but springing into passing lanes.
The back cut is among the simplest deceptions. "Cut to the ball before cutting away from the ball."
“To know your Enemy, you must become your Enemy.” ― Sun Tzu
1. Every good team learns to apply and defeat pressure.
2. Practice multiple presses to expose players to solving pressure.
3. This includes man and zone presses with or without ball entry denial.
"He will win who knows how to handle both superior and inferior forces."
As was said of Bear Bryant, "He can take his'n and beat your'n or your'n and beat his'n."
Hubie Brown shared the gospel of winning with less talent. The keys reflect my theory of possessions and possession. Get more possessions with better efficiency per possession.
“Treat your men as you would your own beloved sons. And they will follow you into the deepest valley.” ― Sun Tzu, The Art of War
Success follows you to the extent of your relationships. Be positive. Bring energy. Do the work - "chop wood and carry water."
“Know yourself and you will win all battles” ― Sun Tzu
"Do more of what works and less of what doesn't."
“So in war, the way is to avoid what is strong, and strike at what is weak.”
― Sun Tzu, The Art of War
"Basketball is a game of mismatches." Create mismatches with superior personnel, training better fundamentals, and opportunistic tactics.
Simple small on big cross-screen out of 4 OUT set.
“Great results, can be achieved with small forces.” ― Sun Tzu, The Art of War
Teach within Small Sided Games...master 2-on-2 and 3-on-3 play.
Preparation beats aspiration.
Vary offensive and defensive elements; condition within drills.
“If words of command are not clear and distinct, if orders are not thoroughly understood, then the general is to blame. But, if orders are clear and the soldiers nevertheless disobey, then it is the fault of their officers.” ― Sun Tzu
Get everyone on the same page.
“Be where your enemy is not.” ― Sun Tzu
1. Separate.
2. Create space.
3. Do not play in the traffic.
“If you fight with all your might, there is a chance of life; where as death is certain if you cling to your corner” ― Sun Tzu, The Art of War
"Fortune favors the bold."
“Standing on the defensive indicates insufficient strength; attacking, a superabundance of strength.” ― Sun Tzu, The Art of War
Defense is not enough.
Lagniappe 1: what is your brand?
Lagniappe 2: Individual action off staggered screens
Maybe you have a dynamic player (2) whom you want to get in space. You could run "five out" into a double stagger for her or get her into a two-man game with five. You also could get 5 in isolation. You might run this as easily from the Horns set. Be creative.