Iowa Hawkeyes Sideline Out of Bounds Play: Inbounder Back Screen for a Clean Look
Setup
Align in a box formation for the sideline out-of-bounds.
‘1’ is your point guard (inbounder).
‘2’ is on the ball-side elbow.
‘3’ and ‘4’ are on the opposite elbow and opposite low block, respectively.
‘5’ is your best finisher on the ball-side low block.
This traditional alignment disguises the movement well and allows for multiple screening angles.
Execution
‘1’ (the inbounder) starts the action by slapping the ball to initiate the play.
‘2’ and ‘3’ set a double screen across the free-throw line for ‘5’ to cut up to the top.
As soon as ‘5’ clears the screen, ‘1’ steps inbounds and sets a back screen for ‘3’.
‘3’ uses the screen and cuts hard toward the rim.
‘2’ and ‘4’ space out to become safety options.
The inbounder is now live and becomes a secondary shooter or receiver depending on the defense's rotation.
Full Breakdown for Coaches
Why This Play Works
The genius of this Iowa Hawkeyes SLOB is in the deceptive use of the inbounder. Most defenses are focused on the ball, initial cutters, and switch actions, but they often overlook the inbounder turning into a screener. That moment of hesitation opens a high-percentage cut to the basket.
This is especially effective when you have:
A smart inbounder
A quick finisher at the ‘3’ position
Defenders who over-switch or lose focus on inbound situations
Teaching the Timing
Timing is critical. If the back screen is set too early, the defense adjusts. Too late, and the window closes.
‘3’ must wait until ‘1’ physically enters and sets their feet.
‘1’ should sprint into the screen for a surprise effect.
The pass must come immediately after the screen, before the defense recovers.
Use walk-throughs and dry-run drills in practice to build timing and chemistry between your inbounder and cutter.
Second and Third Options
If ‘3’ isn’t open on the cut:
‘5’ at the top becomes a handoff or pick-and-roll option.
‘2’ spaces to the wing for a skip pass or flare.
‘1’ can pop out after the screen for a shot or reset.
You’re never left with just one choice. That’s the strength of the continuity built into the design.
Coaching Tips and Adjustments
Change personnel to disguise looks. Swap shooters and cutters each time.
Add a lob or backdoor read for advanced players.
Use this play after timeouts or in late-game sideline situations.
Teach footwork and legal screen angles. The inbounder can’t move while setting the screen.
Drill Recommendations
1. 3-on-3 Screen & Cut Simulation
Focus on setting, using, and passing off the back screen. Rotate roles so every player understands the angle and cut timing.
2. BLOB/SLOB Defensive Recognition Drill
Train players to recognize when the inbounder is becoming a threat. This also preps your team defensively when opponents run similar action.
3. Film Review Sessions
Show your team clips of this play (e.g., from Iowa Hawkeyes or your own footage) and discuss the reads. Emphasize the scoring decisions that come from misdirection.
When to Use the Play
This play is ideal in:
Baseline sideline out-of-bounds situations
Late-game or end-of-quarter scenarios
After a timeout when the defense might be disorganized
Situations where your opponent is switching screens heavily
It also works well at all levels, from middle school to varsity, because it’s built on fundamental movement and execution.
Final Takeaway
The Iowa Hawkeyes’ sideline out-of-bounds play featuring the inbounder back screen is a brilliant mix of simplicity and surprise. It leverages basic screens and sharp cuts but flips expectations by making the inbounder the key playmaker.
With just one screen and two passes, you can get your best cutter a clean shot at the rim or keep the floor spaced for a second action.
Add this SLOB to your arsenal—especially if you coach youth or high school basketball—and you’ll find yourself scoring more often off those overlooked sideline moments.
Practice it. Run it with pace. Watch it deliver.
