The emphasis on small-sided games may seem to minimize "what's going on" the help side. And that's nobody's intent.
Let's discuss help side offense. This isn't "all-inclusive" as it's not like I'm an NBA video coordinator. Add your favorites - parts of Flex, Chin series, pinch post, whatever.
Spacing. First, without spacing on the help side, there is no offense. We use the term "spacing line" to describe the three-point arc. Having a shooter in the corner adds "gravity" for the defense.
Ball reversal. Reverse the ball in three ways - via the perimeter, over the top, or through the post. Kirby Schepp explains that paint touches and ball reversal increase the percentage of scoring possessions. That includes "drive and kick" to the help or "weak side."
Player exchange. Help side players exchange via flare screens and down screens.
Examples help us visualize some opportunities.
Drive and weakside kick. Probable the sine qua non of today. A.k.a. the power of the draw 2 and pass.
Hammer action. Baseline drive and "sink" with a screen was a Spurs staple. Yes, it helps to have knockdown shooters.
Corner rip. Even with middle schoolers, this generated layups.
We used a cross screen to enter the ball on the SLOB, and then a diagonal screen to free the help side cutter.
Short roll to flat corner.
Good ball reversal through the middle.
Weak side basket cuts (with or without screens).
Zak Boisvert with magical video with weak side cuts.
Our middle schoolers used downscreens from horns to generate weak side action.
Players on the weak side shouldn't feel like the right fielder in Little League, hidden to reduce opportunity. Spacing creates opportunity, especially combined with aggressive driving, cutting, and passing. What's your weak side favorite?
Summary:
- Drive and kick
- Hammer
- Corner rip
- Short roll
- Basket cuts
- Horns downscreens
Lagniappe. Development. Not having enough shooting success. Reimagine your shot. Coach Nick goes through the hop method.
Lagniappe 2. Is the weak side the far side?
