Expert: Bret Temple - 1/30/2008

Question
Hi there, just would like to quiz you on a solution for our team, we are a small team and when we come up againt a rather tall we really struggle to get through there 2/3 zone. Often get alot of blocked shot, layups etc.
Any suggestions on an approch to get more point against this side.

Answer
Hi Luke,

I'm not a coach, but I can certainly offer you some suggestions. First of all, try to beat the zone before they have a chance to set up. In other words, try to score in transition.

2nd. Penetrate the Zone. A 2-3 can break down as soon as the ballhandler can get to the middle of the floor. All the defenders must collapse on the ball handler which will leave passing lanes open for a teammate cutting to the basket or setting up for an outside shot.


3rd  Swing the ball around the perimeter. The zone must shift every time the ball is passed. When the ball is passed around the outside of the 2-3 zone defense the defense will be temporarily out of position while they shift from one side to the other.


4th   Bring cutters from the weak side. Defenders must focus on the ball at all times. When the defenders on the baseline are watching the ball, an offensive player can sneak in the seam between defenders and will be open in the lane for a pass.

5th  Seal off the outside baseline defender. The easiest play to run against a 2-3 zone defense is to set a pick on the defender covering the wing on the baseline. Send a cutter along the baseline and pass him the ball after he passes the pick. This will leave the cutter open for a perimeter shot.

These are some basic tips to help you out. Good luck.