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Motion Offense Basics

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Motion Offense Basics

There are many forms of motion offense used by teams across the world. You have the passing and screening type of offense, which is traditionally used by teams like Indiana, Duke, and now Texas Tech, a passing and cutting type of motion used by UNC and Kansas, a structured motion used by Virginia Tech, and an open post motion used by Cincinnati, Kansas State, and now West Virginia. There is also the Dribble-Drive-Motion (DDM), which was popularized by Memphis, and similar offenses that emphasize the dribble more than the pass. All of these offenses have some things in common:

  • You must read the defense
  • You must pass away from the defense
  • Constant movement and/or screening
  • Good screens and/or cuts
  • Ball reversals by moving the ball from side-to-side
  • Level of the offense's structure will be determined by level of talent
Simple Motion Principles :

  • If ball is on top, screen down or back-screen for a teammate on each side of the floor.
  • If ball is on wing, screen away for a teammate.
  • Catch and hold the ball for a two-count, looking for cutters.
  • Post players post up for a two-count, then go away to screen for a teammate.
  • You can use the three-point arc to help you keep proper spacing.
  • Players without the ball should use the V-cut to get open and show a target hand where they want the pass.
  • If overplayed and unable to get open to receive the ball, go back door or go screen for someone else.
  • If defense switches, the screener should ALWAYS step back toward the ball.
  • Screeners can give a visual signal (fist in the air) and/or a verbal call (the teammate's name) that they are screening.
  • Pass away from the defense and hit the teammate's target hand.
  • Pass the ball quickly--don't hold it any longer than a two-count.
  • Don't stand, cut, or go screen for someone.
  • Be patient. Be quick, but don't hurry.
  • Use the dribble only to improve the passing angle, drive to basket, or get out of trouble.
As a coach, you have to stress shot selection and explain that to your players. They must know what type of shot YOU think is a good one in your offense, not what THEY think is a good shot.

   

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