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Wednesday, September 18, 2024

Basketball - Dynamic Spacing

Players need to understand and manipulate spacing both offensively and defensively. Watch any NBA game; the spacing is elite. 

Offense has initial and follow-up spacing. We emphasize the three-point line as the 'spacing' line. That's ideal for '5-out' (50) or 'open' offense. Also a big fan of 'horns' which has filled corners and an open lane. 

In transition, I favor having wings fill corners, one rim runner and the possibility of a drag screen with the second big. 

Player and ball movement transform the 'primary spacing' into secondary spacing. 

Have options to create spacing. 

  • From 50, cut a high slot through to open a gap. 
  • From horns, open more space with an 'elbow get'. 
  • Another useful horns action is "Duke series" with the ball side corner cutting across and setting up a two-man game with the ball handler and elbow. 

Let's get a spacing consultation from AI. 

ways to improve spacing with player or ball movement.

ChatGPT said:
Improving spacing in basketball is crucial for creating effective offensive opportunities and ensuring that the court is utilized efficiently. Here are five ways to enhance spacing through player or ball movement:

1. Use of the Pick-and-Roll

The pick-and-roll is a classic and effective way to improve spacing. By setting a screen for a ball handler, you can force defenders to make quick decisions, often leading to mismatches or open shots. Proper execution involves:

  • Setting Solid Screens: The screener should set a firm pick to create separation.
  • Timing: The ball handler and screener must coordinate their movements to exploit the defensive lapse.
  • Spacing After the Screen: The screener should roll to the basket or pop out, creating additional spacing for the ball handler to either drive or pass.

2. Spacing Through Off-Ball Movement

Players without the ball need to constantly move to create better spacing and open up passing lanes. This can be achieved by:

  • Cutting: Players can cut to the basket or to the three-point line, drawing defenders and opening up space for their teammates.
  • Setting Screens: Off-ball screens can help free up shooters or create driving lanes by forcing defenders to switch or navigate through screens.
  • Maintaining Proper Distance: Players should avoid crowding around the ball handler and instead position themselves to maximize court space.

3. High and Low Post Positioning

Proper positioning in the post areas can create effective spacing and open up lanes for drives or shots:

  • High Post: Positioning a player at the high post (near the free-throw line) can draw defenders out of the paint, making it easier for teammates to drive or shoot.
  • Low Post: A player in the low post can attract defenders, which can open up space for perimeter shooters or cutters.

4. Ball Movement and Passing

Quick and effective ball movement is key to maintaining spacing and creating open shots:

  • Swing the Ball: Passing the ball around the perimeter can shift the defense and create open shot opportunities.
  • Skip Passes: Using skip passes to move the ball quickly from one side of the court to the other can exploit defensive rotations and open up shooters.
  • Read the Defense: Players should make quick decisions based on defensive positioning, aiming to find the open man and maintain spacing.

5. Positioning in Transition

Transition offense can greatly benefit from proper spacing:

  • Running the Floor: Players should sprint to their designated spots (wings, corners) to spread out the defense and create fast-break opportunities.
  • Spacing on Fast Breaks: Players should fill the lanes (one player in the middle, one on each wing) to create passing options and open lanes for driving or shooting.
  • Making Early Decisions: Quick decision-making in transition can capitalize on the defense’s disorganization, allowing for effective spacing and high-percentage shots.
Defensively, "shrink space."
  • Load to the ball.
  • Drop to the level of the ball. 
  • Think "Cover 1.5" as you guard your yard and part of another. 

I know what you're thinking. "I know that." How many times do we allow hoops because our players can't help because they don't shrink space? How many times do we allow help side cuts because we didn't load to the ball? How often did a player mess up a play by cutting to an occupied post? 

Simplicity isn't enough. 

Lagniappe. The first clip shows what we called "Nurse," a set where UCONN ran Kia Nurse off the high post back screen. 

Lagniappe 2. Winning is the reward for executing well.  

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