Multi-Option Man Offense: Ball Screen & Stagger Play for Versatile Scoring

Setup

• Formation: 1-4 High

• 1 has the ball at the top of the key

• 2 is on the left wing

• 3 and 4 are aligned on the right side

• 5 is at the right elbow

Execution

1. Initial Entry:
   1 passes to 2 on the left wing to initiate the action.

2. Back Screen Action:
   5 immediately sets a back screen for 1. If 1 is open, 2 should deliver the pass for a quick layup.

3. Stagger Setup:
   Simultaneously, 3 and 4 shift into screening positions to set a stagger screen for 1 on the opposite side of the floor.

4. Ball Screen Action:
   After the back screen, 5 flows directly into a ball screen for 2, allowing 2 to attack the middle of the defense.

5. Roll and Read:

   • 5 rolls hard to the rim after setting the ball screen.

   • 1 comes off the stagger screens set by 4 and 3.

   • 3 clears to the weak side corner.

   • 4 holds at the opposite block.

Coaching Points

• Back Screen Detail: Make sure 5 sets a hard back screen with contact and quickly transitions to the ball screen. Sprinting from one action to the next ensures separation from their defender.

• Stagger Screen Timing: 4 and 3 should set their stagger screens outside the paint to create room for the ball screen and roll.

• Decision Making: 2 should read the help defense:

  • If the defense collapses on 5’s roll → 1 should be open at the top off the stagger.

  • If the help doesn’t come → 5 is likely open on the roll.

  • If no help comes → 2 can attack the rim.

• Spacing Discipline: 3 spacing to the weak side corner and 4 holding the block opens up the key for both the roller and the shooter coming off the stagger.

Advanced Breakdown: Why This Play Works

This play is a blend of motion offense fundamentals and quick hitter precision. Here’s why it’s effective:

• Disguised Intentions: The back screen at the beginning suggests a potential quick layup for 1. Whether that pass is made or not, it forces defenders to shift and react, which disrupts communication.

• Multiple Reads: There are at least four potential scoring options:

  1. Layup to 1 off the back screen.

  2. Mid-drive by 2.

  3. Roll by 5.

  4. Catch-and-shoot opportunity for 1.

• Stagger Screen for a Shooter: The action ending with 1 coming off a stagger screen creates confusion for help defense, especially if they’re focused on stopping the roll.

• Counter to Switching Defenses:

  • If the defense switches on the back screen, 5 may have a mismatch in the post.

  • If they switch the stagger, 1 may have a slower defender chasing.

  • If they hedge the ball screen, a quick roll to 5 beats the help rotation.

Teaching Tips for Coaches

• Start with 2-on-2 Drill: Use the ball screen sequence between 2 and 5 as a two-player drill before layering in the full play.

• Stagger Timing Reps: Have 4 and 3 rehearse timing and angle of screens. Encourage slips if defenders overplay.

• Film Study Focus: Show players clips of how 5’s roll opens the lane and how timing the back screen can set up easy buckets early.

• Use in Key Moments:

  • Great as an ATO (After Time Out) set.

  • Run it when your team needs a bucket off structured movement.

Final Takeaway

Man Play 11 – Ball Screen & Stagger combines simplicity and misdirection. It keeps defenders busy across the entire half court and offers your point guard a chance to initiate a downhill attack with backup options.

With strong screeners, disciplined timing, and a confident ball handler, this play is a nightmare for man-to-man defenses. Perfect for high school or youth basketball coaches looking to add multi-option sets to their offensive playbook.