Zipper Cut Action: How to Teach and Score from the Pin Down
Goal
Teach players how to execute the Zipper Cut and generate scoring opportunities through catch-and-shoots, pull-ups, and flare options. This is a classic, versatile action that works for guards at all levels.
Setup
Begin in a 1-4 high or box formation.
A guard (usually 2 or 3) starts near the low block or corner.
A teammate (typically a post or wing) sets a pin down screen near the elbow.
The cutter uses the screen to lift vertically toward the top of the key, like a zipper "zipping up."
This cut can also start from the corner, with the cutter taking their defender low before coming up off the screen.
Step-by-Step Execution
1. Catch & Shoot
The screener sets a solid pin down near the elbow.
The cutter comes off the screen hard, shoulders tight to the screener.
The passer hits the cutter at the top of the key.
The cutter catches and shoots immediately off the lift.
2. Shot Fake into Pull-Up
Same action as above.
Once the cutter receives the ball, they shot fake to freeze the closeout.
They then take one or two dribbles into a pull-up jumper.
Emphasize decision-making: if the defender flies out, attack; if they sag, shoot.
3. Fade / Flare Read
If the defender fights over the screen and beats the cutter to the top,
The cutter makes a sharp plant and fades out to the corner.
The screener must read this and flip the angle to set a flare screen.
Passer skips the ball to the corner for a shot.
Coaching Tips
Teach the cutter to set up the screen by walking their defender down.
Emphasize footwork: plant hard before changing direction.
Screener should angle their screen depending on defender positioning.
Cut tight: tell your players to "brush shoulders" with the screener.
Communicate: verbal or visual cues like "screen!" or eye contact help with timing.
For youth: Start with just the catch-and-shoot read.
For high school: Layer in all three reads, and allow the cutter to choose.
Full Breakdown: Mastering the Zipper Cut at All Levels
The Zipper Cut is one of the most fundamental off-ball movements in half-court offense, especially effective in actions designed to free up shooters or initiate ball reversal into pick-and-roll.
Why the Zipper Cut Works
Vertical movement: The upward lift from block to top pulls defenders through traffic.
Defensive strain: It forces off-ball defenders to navigate a screen with minimal help.
Multiple reads: The cutter can catch and shoot, pull up, or fade based on how they're defended.
Flow starter: Great for beginning continuity actions, horns sets, or delay series.
This action translates directly from pro to prep levels. It teaches young players to move without the ball, set up defenders, and score decisively. It also helps them understand off-ball spacing and read-and-react principles.
Teaching Progressions
Youth Teams:
Start with scripted reps of just the catch-and-shoot option.
Use cones to show screen spots and cutter paths.
Pair players and rotate roles: screener, cutter, passer.
Use guided defense to introduce fade decision.
High School Teams:
Add live defense: show curl, fade, and backdoor options.
Drill all reads in progression. Run "Zipper Series" reps: 3 cutters, 3 passes, 3 shots.
Incorporate secondary action: zipper into ball screen, zipper into DHO.
Drill Ideas
1. Zipper Shooting Drill
1 screener, 1 cutter, 1 passer
5 reps each from the block and the corner
Goal: 7 makes in 10 reps
2. Read & React Zipper Series
Add a defender
Cutter chooses one of 3 reads: catch & shoot, pull-up, or flare
Screener adjusts angle live
3. Flare Skip Shooting
Cutter flares to corner
Screener sets screen at elbow
Passer works on long skip delivery
4. Live 3-on-3 Zipper Game
Side or top zipper entry
Teams must complete zipper action before they can score
Common Mistakes & Fixes
MistakeFixCutter rounds their cutEmphasize sharp change of directionScreener opens earlyDrill hold and pivot angle footworkBall arrives too lateTrain passer to read earlier and cue timingPoor footwork on pull-upAdd footwork-only reps before shooting
Coaching Cues
"Zip up like a jacket" – go vertical, tight, and quick.
"Set your defender up before you sprint."
"Read the feet, not the hips."
"If they go ball side, fade."
"Screen and shape up – both players are threats."
