Coaches Resources
"Out of Bounds Plays "
The goal of out of bounds plays are to create a high percentage shot with two to three options. If a high percentage shot is not available, then ideally each play should either flow into team offence, or into a predetermined set. This eliminates any rushed shots or need to back the ball out and call a set play.
Out of bounds plays are successful when cuts, screens, and passes are executed with proper techniques and precision. Players must be able to anticipate and read the defence. They should know what options to execute when the defence is in a zone, switches, fights over screens, etc. Players also need to be alert to counter any defensive over play or carelessness. This all can seem very confusing, however, like every other facet of basketball, repetition allows players to make reads. As stated above the goal of out of bounds plays is to create a high percentage shot. If the defence makes a mistake the offence needs to take advantage.
Below is an out of bounds play which I have used both as a player and a coach to some success. As stated above it requires repetition by players to be able to make proper reads on defence. It is also heavily dependent on setting and using screens properly. Off of the ball screens should be set with the screeners back to either the ball or the basket. By simplifying screening in this way it is possible to have players making reads much quicker. The play is a screen the screener. Meaning that the person who sets the initial screen is then receiving a screen. This often works if you have your best post setting the first screen on your best shooter. Defence may react to take away entry to best shooter and then second screen will allow initial screener to be open. The diagram below may help to shed some light on the play.
Player 1 is the shooter, player 4 the post you want to get the ball. Having player 5 (post) setting a big screen for player 4 who set the initial screen. With this initial play the goal is to get a layup for the 4.
If the defence switches on the initial screen then the 4 can slip straight to the basket for a mismatch. If defence switches the second screen then the 5 roles to the basket after setting the second screen.
Can also change the play to having the 4 and 1 setting a double screen for the 2 with a change in call and then screen the screener and have the 1 go as an outlet. See below:
