Iverson Series ATO Plays: 4 Options Out of the Iverson Cut
Goal
Use the Iverson cut as a base action to create high-quality scoring looks out of timeouts. This series provides a versatile way to get backdoor layups, open threes, deep post touches, or lob finishes. It is especially effective as a set of after-timeout (ATO) plays in both youth and high school levels.
Setup
The set begins with two players (usually wings) positioned at the elbows.
A scorer (typically 2 or 3) starts on the baseline and cuts over the top of both screens in what’s called the Iverson cut.
The ball is entered to the cutter or to the screener depending on the variation.
Step-by-Step Execution
Option 1: Tight Curl to Layup
The cutter comes across both screens (Iverson cut).
Instead of continuing to the wing, the cutter tight curls off the second screener.
The passer (usually 3) leads them with a backdoor pass.
Ideal if the defense overplays or top-locks the cutter.
Option 2: Iverson into Flare 3
The cutter completes the Iverson cut and receives the ball at the wing.
Dribbles toward the corner, pulling their defender with them.
The screener (5) steps up and sets a comeback flare screen for the opposite wing (3).
The shooter pops into open space for a catch-and-shoot three.
Option 3: Iverson into Deep Post-Up
The cutter goes across the top as usual.
Simultaneously, the opposite wing (3) cuts hard to the rim.
After finishing the Iverson cut, the screener (5) screens for the forward (4) to pop out.
The original cutter snaps back into deep post position after cutting, sealing for a deep catch.
Option 4: Iverson into Backdoor Lob
The cutter completes the Iverson cut.
The screener (5) steps out to catch the ball at the top.
The ball handler (1) steps out and sets a back screen for the opposite wing (3).
3 cuts hard off the screen for a lob at the rim.
Coaching Tips
Sell the Iverson cut every time. The decoy effect only works if defenders believe it.
Teach counters. Players must know when to curl, flare, or snap back based on how they’re guarded.
Spacing matters. Give the post-up or lob space to happen by clearing the weak side.
Youth tip: Start with Option 1 and Option 2—simple timing-based reads.
High school tip: Add all four options and teach players to communicate the call.
Full Breakdown: Teaching the Iverson Series
Why Use the Iverson Cut?
The Iverson cut is a flexible tool that stresses the defense in multiple ways. It forces defenders to fight over two consecutive screens, which can lead to defensive breakdowns. From there, coaches can trigger a wide range of follow-up actions: curl cuts, flare screens, post seals, or back screens.
What makes it especially useful for ATO (after timeout) plays is its ability to disguise intent. Because every action begins with the same movement, the defense cannot predict whether the outcome will be a three-point shot, a layup, or a post-up opportunity.
It’s also adaptable across personnel. Whether your best player is a shooter, driver, post-up threat, or lob target, the Iverson series can be tailored to feature them.
When to Use Each Option
Curl to Layup: Use when defenders are aggressively top-locking or chasing the cutter.
Flare 3: Great for a shooter who trails or a cutter who pulls help.
Post-Up: Ideal for strong wings who can seal after cutting or exploit a mismatch.
Backdoor Lob: Use against teams that switch or over-help on the Iverson entry.
Use the curl and lob early in a game to test how a defense reacts to misdirection. Use the post-up and flare later in games to create mismatches or take advantage of defenders overreacting.
Teaching Progressions
Youth Teams:
Begin with dummy defense to walk through each option.
Emphasize sprinting the Iverson cut with speed and purpose.
Teach how to read screen angles and defenders’ positioning.
Use cones to visualize spacing and cut timing.
High School Teams:
Practice all four options in sequence, starting from the same setup.
Teach players to call audibles or use hand signals to cue variations.
Break down each option with guided defense.
Layer in reads: if the flare is covered, re-screen into handoff; if post-up is denied, cut out to wing for re-entry.
Encourage players to watch film and recognize how different defenders react to the Iverson cut. This helps them anticipate whether to curl, flare, or bounce out.
Drills to Reinforce Iverson Series
1. Iverson Curl Layup Drill
Reps of Iverson cut into tight curl
Emphasis on shoulder-to-hip screen usage and layup off the catch
2. Flare Screen Timing
Cutter Iversons and dribbles toward corner
Screener sets up flare angle
Shooter pops behind for quick catch-and-shoot
3. Deep Seal Post Drill
Cutter Iversons, pauses, then snaps back
Defender overplays
Player seals deep for an inside feed
4. Lob Setup Drill
Iverson cutter clears
Ball enters top
Wing sets back screen for lob cutter
Repetition on timing and pass placement
Use live-action build-up: Start with 3-on-0 walkthroughs, add defenders, then run 4-on-4 or 5-on-5 live to simulate game pressure.
Common Mistakes and Fixes
| Mistake | Fix |
|---|---|
| Cutter jogs the Iverson | Demand full-speed cut every time |
| Screens too far apart | Keep elbows tight to compress defense |
| Post-up too early | Teach to snap back after cutter clears |
| Misread on flare | Use verbal call or hand cue for the flare trigger |
| Screener angles off | Use dummy defense to rep proper screen placement |
Final Coaching Cues
“Set up your cut before you sprint.”
“Every screen is an opportunity.”
“The Iverson is the disguise, the action comes after.”
“Cut hard, read quick, finish strong.”
“Move with intent, sell each step.”
