Shooter Option off Double Action
Goal
The goal of the Shooter Option off Double Action is to use misdirection, well-timed cuts, and screens to free up a high-quality shot for your best shooter. The play incorporates two scoring opportunities: one for the player cutting off the screen and another for your shooter, creating a high-value play that can catch the defense off guard.
Setup
Player 1 (Point Guard): Initiates the play by passing to Player 2 on the wing, then gets the ball back.
Player 2 (Wing Player): Starts at the wing, cuts hard around Player 5’s screen toward the basket.
Player 3 (Shooter): Positioned on the opposite wing, waits to pop out to the perimeter off a second screen set by Player 5.
Player 4 (Corner Player): Stays in the corner to maintain spacing and prevent the defense from collapsing into the play.
Player 5 (Screener): The big man, who sets two stationary screens, first for Player 2’s cut to the basket and then for Player 3’s perimeter shot.
Step-by-Step Execution
Quick Ball Movement to Set the Action
Player 1 (Point Guard) passes the ball to Player 2 (Wing).
After the pass, Player 1 quickly receives the ball back from Player 2. This simple fake pass action is designed to shift the defense, making it appear like Player 2 is the primary target.
Player 2 Cuts Hard Around Player 5
Player 2 cuts tightly around Player 5’s screen toward the basket.
If the defense doesn’t react in time and stays with Player 1, Player 2 might have an open path to the basket for a quick layup. This option serves as a decoy, but if executed well, it can lead to a quick scoring opportunity.
Player 3 Comes off the Second Screen
As the defense reacts to Player 2’s cut, Player 3 (your best shooter) waits on the opposite side.
Player 5 sets a second screen to free up Player 3, who pops out to the three-point line for a catch-and-shoot opportunity. If Player 3 is open, Player 1 should make a quick pass for the shot.
Player 4 Stretches the Floor
Player 4 remains stationed in the corner.
This spacing forces the defense to cover more ground and keeps the middle of the floor open, preventing help defenders from collapsing into the action and giving Player 3 more room for a clean shot.
Player 5 Anchors the Action
Player 5, the screener, is responsible for setting two crucial screens: one to free Player 2 on the curl cut and another to open up Player 3 for the shot.
Player 5 needs to maintain solid positioning and avoid moving fouls during the screens to ensure the play runs smoothly.
Coaching Tips
Emphasize Timing and Spacing
Proper spacing is key. Player 4 in the corner and Player 5 setting screens in the middle keep the defense stretched. Ensure that Player 1 reads the defense quickly and makes the right decision, either passing to Player 2 or Player 3.
Use the Play as a Misdirection Tool
Make sure players understand the misdirection aspect of the play. The fake pass and the quick cut by Player 2 are designed to make the defense think the ball is going elsewhere, allowing Player 3 to get open for the shot.
Practice Timing and Screening Techniques
Encourage Player 5 to set solid, legal screens. Timing is crucial, too early or too late, and the play will break down. Focus on the angle and placement of the screens to ensure Player 3 gets a clean look.
Repetition and Speed
The play needs to be run quickly, especially when the shot clock is winding down. Practice the movement and decision-making under pressure, especially focusing on Player 1’s quick pass decisions and Player 2’s timing off the screen.
Adjustments for Defensive Pressure
If the defense overcommits to Player 3, this opens up the backdoor cut for Player 2. Teach your players to stay aware of this secondary scoring option and to be ready to switch focus depending on how the defense reacts.
When to Use
After a Timeout: It’s a great play to use after a timeout when you need to set up a quick and effective scoring opportunity.
Late in the Shot Clock: This play doesn’t require isolation, making it perfect for times when the offense needs to create something quickly with limited time on the clock.
Against Aggressive Defenses: If the defense is ball-watching or over-helping, this play punishes them by utilizing screens and misdirection to create open shots.
Full Breakdown
Expanded Detail on the Concept
The Shooter Option off Double Action plays off of classic principles of spacing and timing, while adding a layer of misdirection to exploit an aggressive defense. The play uses two screens to free up the shooter and draw attention to multiple areas of the floor. By making the initial pass look like a set play for Player 2, you force the defense to overcommit, opening up opportunities for Player 3 to capitalize on a clean shot.
The effectiveness of this play lies in the execution of the screens and the quick reads made by the players involved. If the defense overcommits to Player 3, Player 2 is available for a cut to the basket, making the play a constant threat. Players must understand that both options, the shot and the cut, are legitimate opportunities.
Variations and Progressions
Double Screen Variation: Instead of using Player 5 to set two screens, try having Player 4 join the action and set a screen for Player 2. This can cause confusion on which defender should chase whom, creating additional space for the shooter.
Reverse Action: Run the same play, but have Player 1 initiate the play from the left side and run Player 3 to the right corner. This gives you a reverse angle and confuses the defense about which side of the court to focus on.
Common Errors and Fixes
Early Screens: If Player 5 sets the screen too early, it might disrupt the timing. Fix this by emphasizing that Player 5 should wait until the defense is fully committed to Player 2 before setting the screen.
Pass Timing: If Player 1 does not pass the ball quickly enough, Player 3 may not get an open shot. Drill the importance of passing with speed to ensure that Player 3 can take a clean shot before the defense can react.
Lack of Spacing: If Player 4 is not spaced properly in the corner, it could lead to a defensive collapse. Reinforce the importance of spacing, especially in tight game situations, to keep the defense stretched.
Level-Specific Adjustments (Youth & High School)
For youth players, simplify the play by reducing the number of screens and focusing on fundamental cutting and passing. For high school teams, emphasize the decision-making process after Player 1 makes the pass to Player 2, making sure the players understand when to cut, when to screen, and when to shoot.
