How to Run a 1-2-2 Set vs Man Defense: Backdoor Play for Point Guards
Setup:
This play begins in a 1-2-2 set, a formation that creates clear passing lanes and natural spacing. Your point guard (1) starts at the top of the key with the ball. Wings (2 and 4) are spread just above the free-throw line extended, and player 3 is spaced in the weak-side corner. Your big (5) is stationed at the top of the key/elbow area, ready to set a screen.
Player Positions:
1: Ball handler at top of key
2 & 4: Wings at the elbows/free-throw line extended
3: Corner (weak side)
5: High post screener
Execution:
1. Fake the Screen – Then Cut
The success of this play hinges on your point guard’s acting skills. Player 1 should step laterally like they’re setting a screen for 2, but then immediately plant and cut hard backdoor toward the hoop.
2. Screens and Options
2 uses the double screen from 5 and 4, coming up ready to catch and shoot if 1 isn’t open.
4 reads the defense. If help collapses on 1, 4 looks to pass out or skip it.
5 sets a stationary screen and is ready to roll or pop, depending on spacing.
3. Timing is Everything
This is a 5- to 10-second action. It’s not meant to be repeated often but used sparingly as a momentum-changer or counter when defenses start overplaying.
Key Coaching Points
1 must sell the screen—if they don't, the backdoor cut won’t fool the defense.
2 needs to read and shoot confidently if 1 doesn’t receive the pass.
3 drifts weak side—ready to catch if the ball swings out.
4 & 5 must set firm, legal screens—then roll with purpose if the defense overplays.
Practice Drills to Build This Action
To make this play work in real games, rep these supporting concepts:
1. Reading Defense Drill
Work in pairs or groups of 3 to teach how to recognize overplays, sell fakes, and make sharp cuts. Reward correct reads with live finishes.
2. Finishing Under Pressure Drill
Simulate help defenders collapsing and force your point guard to finish strong or pass mid-air.
3. Catch-and-Shoot Drill
Wing players must be ready to fire if the backdoor is covered. Quick-release shooting off screens is essential.
Coach’s Cues
"Sell the screen, then slip!"
"Be a shooter, not just a cutter!"
"Make the defense choose—layup or three!"
"Don’t stand—screen with purpose, then move."
When to Use This Play
Out of a timeout to surprise the defense
After the defense starts switching screens
Late in the clock to get a quick look
Against man-to-man when they deny high
Tip: Don’t run this action repeatedly. It’s most effective when used once or twice per game, especially against aggressive perimeter pressure.
Why This Works at the Youth and High School Level
Simple spacing makes it easy to teach
Helps develop cutting instincts and deception
Reinforces screen usage and timing
Teaches players how to play without the ball
Final Thoughts
If you're a youth or high school coach looking for a clean, efficient action to get your point guard a high-percentage look—this backdoor play from the 1-2-2 set is a smart addition to your offensive playbook.
It’s fast, deceptive, and teaches valuable offensive concepts like screening, slipping, and reading help defenders. Best of all—it takes minimal practice time to install.
So next time the defense gets too aggressive at the top, bait them with this action—and watch your point guard sneak in for a wide-open two.
