Best Man Offense Play: 'Up' Action Using Zoom from a 1-4 High Alignment
Setup
The play starts in a 1-4 high formation, a flexible and familiar alignment that helps disguise upcoming actions. '1' begins with the ball at the top. '2' and '3' are positioned on the wings. '4' and '5' are stationed at the elbows.
This set doesn’t telegraph anything fancy—ideal when you want to catch a defense off guard coming out of a timeout or after your primary offense stalls.
Execution
Initial Entry:
'1' initiates the action by passing to '5' at the elbow. After the pass, '1' relocates to the right wing, beginning the off-ball motion.Back Screen Option:
While this is happening, '2' loops behind '4' and sets a back screen for '4'. If the defender trailing '4' is caught by surprise, '5' should immediately hit '4' on the cut for a quick layup.Zoom Action:
If the backdoor is defended, '5' dribbles at '2' for a dribble handoff (DHO) or pitch—this is the classic “zoom” action. '2' should look to turn the corner hard and drive aggressively.Roll & Space:
As '2' drives, '5' rolls to the rim, creating a dynamic two-man game.'3' spaces to the corner to occupy help defenders.
'1' fills the trail spot for a potential kick-out.
'4' pops out to stretch the floor and pull out the help side defense.
Keys to Success
Precise Timing: The back screen by '2' must happen before the DHO setup. The dribble pitch must be timed so that '2' can receive it at full speed.
5’s Role: Must “T-up” at the elbow to clearly show a hand target and be ready to pivot into the roll.
2’s Decision-Making: Read the help defense. If x3 helps, the kick to the corner is wide open. If x5 steps out, look for the roll man.
Disguise: Because the zoom action is not set up from a traditional corner spacing, defenses may not recognize it until it’s too late.
Full Breakdown for Coaches
"Up" is designed for programs that already use zoom actions—or want to start. With the increasing popularity of handoffs and pace-based offenses, this is a play that fits naturally into many offensive philosophies.
Why It Works
The brilliance of "Up" lies in how it uses misdirection. At first glance, defenders are focused on the back screen for '4'—a legitimate scoring option. That occupies attention just long enough for the true action to develop: the DHO between '5' and '2'.
This forces multiple defensive reads in under three seconds. The back screen puts stress on low help. The DHO draws attention up top. And the trailing movement from '4' and '1' creates subtle shifting that makes help decisions harder.
It’s especially lethal when:
Defenders trail aggressively over the top.
Defenses switch but fail to communicate on the DHO.
You have a dynamic ball-handler who can attack the paint and make the right read.
Personnel Recommendations
'2' should be your best creator—someone who can shoot, pass, or finish.
'5' needs to have solid footwork and timing for handoffs. A rolling big with good hands is ideal.
'3' and '1' must be spacing threats—capable shooters that force their defenders to stay honest.
Variations
You can flip the action to the left side by swapping '2' and '3'.
If defenders go under the DHO, '2' can stop and rise for a pull-up jumper.
'4' can act as a secondary screener or slip cutter if their defender helps too early.
When to Use This Play
After a timeout (ATO).
When needing a quick 2-point option.
Against man defenses that are overplaying or switching frequently.
To open a quarter with energy and a clean look for a primary ball handler.
Final Thoughts
"Up" is modern basketball in a nutshell—flowing movement, layered options, and simple reads. It punishes hesitation and rewards teams that practice timing and execution. Whether you run a full zoom-based offense or just want a clean option out of a timeout, this play gives you structure without limiting creativity.
Use it to energize your offense, punish switching defenders, and put the ball in your best player’s hands—right where it belongs.
