Post-Up Action from a 1-2-2 Set – Get Your Center Quality Looks vs Man Defense
Goal:
The 1-2-2 set vs. man-to-man defense is designed to create a quick post-up opportunity for the center (Player 5) while utilizing effective ball movement and screens to confuse the defense. This offensive play uses misdirection and solid spacing to get the ball to the center in a prime position to score in the post.
Setup:
Player Positions:
Player 1: Ball handler at the top of the key.
Player 2: Wing player on the strong side.
Player 3: Wing player positioned at the low block.
Player 4: The forward, typically in the mid-range.
Player 5: Center positioned at the low block.
Spacing: Ensure players are spaced correctly, with Player 1 initiating the offense, Player 2 in the corner, Player 3 clearing to the opposite corner, and Player 4 slightly above the free-throw line, ready to pop out for a passing angle.
Step-by-Step Execution:
1. Misdirection to Set Up Post Play
Player 5 (center) starts by acting as though they are going to set a screen for Player 3 (strong side low block). This misdirection catches the defender off guard.
As Player 5 fakes setting a screen for Player 3, they quickly pivot and move to post up at the low block, preparing to receive the ball.
Player 3 clears to the corner to bring their defender away from help side, creating space for Player 5 in the post.
2. Ball Screen and Reverse Pass
Player 1 (ball handler) uses a ball screen from Player 4, and as the defense shifts, Player 1 reverses the ball to Player 4.
Player 4 should be in a position to spot up, acting as a relief option for the ball handler, and making sure that they are available for a passing angle to Player 5.
Coaching Tips:
Deceptive Screening: The key to the success of this play lies in the misdirection. Ensure that Player 5 fakes the screen well to throw off the defender.
Clear the Key: Player 3 must be quick to clear the key and bring their defender away, ensuring there is no help defense for the post play.
Strong Post Positioning: Player 5 should fight for deep post positioning immediately after setting up the screen. Once they establish themselves in the low block, they should be prepared to receive the ball at a high percentage shooting area.
Timing of the Ball Reversal: Player 1 must time the ball reversal to Player 4 and be ready to make the pass into the post or take advantage of the popping action.
Player 4’s Role: Player 4 should be ready to create passing angles after setting the screen and be prepared to act as a relief option. If Player 5 is not open, Player 4 should be a secondary scoring option.
Drills to Improve the 1-2-2 Post Up Play:
Post-Up Reps:
Work on getting Player 5 in position to receive the ball with good footwork, ensuring they are ready to post up as soon as the ball is passed into them.
Focus on Player 5 catching the ball strong and going straight into a quick move (e.g., hook shot, drop step).
Screening and Rolling:
Practice the screen and roll action with Player 4 and Player 5 to ensure smooth timing and execution. Player 4 should focus on setting a solid, stationary screen and then popping to the open space.
Passing Drills:
Set up passing drills to ensure Player 1 and Player 4 can quickly reverse the ball while maintaining spacing. Work on delivering quick, accurate passes to the post.
Cutting Drills:
Work with Player 3 on the timing of the backdoor cuts and clearing the key. Focus on explosive cuts that create space for the center in the post.
Full Breakdown:
The 1-2-2 set vs. man-to-man offense, when executed correctly, can be a highly effective strategy for isolating the center in the post. The key to its success is the use of misdirection, precise timing, and well-timed screens. The action starts with a fake screen from Player 5, which makes the defender think the ball is going to Player 3. This brief confusion allows Player 5 to get into an ideal post-up position.
By using this play, coaches can effectively use the post to create scoring opportunities while maintaining solid spacing. Player 1 (the ball handler) controls the tempo and must be able to read the defense quickly, whether they’re passing to Player 5 for a post-up or looking for Player 4 on the pop.
Additionally, spacing is key to the success of the play. Player 3 must clear the key to pull the defender away from help side, which allows Player 5 to operate without interference. Player 4, who sets the screen, must also be aware of their timing on the pop-out and be ready for the ball if Player 5 is covered.
The versatility of this play lies in its ability to create multiple options for scoring: whether it's the post-up for Player 5, a shot for Player 4, or a quick pass to Player 1 for a shot. This play can be executed quickly, within a 5-10 second window, making it ideal for situations where the team needs a quick, effective scoring option.
Final Thoughts:
The 1-2-2 set vs. man offense is an effective tool for exploiting mismatches in the post. By using misdirection, strong screens, and precise passing, this play creates open looks for multiple players on the floor. Coaches can tweak the play depending on their personnel and the defensive alignment they face, making it a flexible option for many situations.
