Early Offense
Early Offense is Composed of Three Phases
These three phases include an initial early push, a continuous flow into an early set, and concluding with a continuity style of play. The initial push phase into offense end of the court before the defense can get organized and established, creates not only out numbered situations, but severe mismatches as well. However, when the early push does not create a good shot or advantage it is important to move right into the offensive flow phase without allowing the defense to set up. If the early flow set does not produce a good shot or an advantage, it is important to move right into the third and final phase with a continuity style of play as the shot clock winds down.
Early Offense Flow Chart
Keys to Success
Before exploring the "How's" along with the "Whys" and "Whens" of Early Offense, it is often helpful to see the whole picture before the pieces of the puzzle are then put together. Strive to develop the following offensive mentality, attitudes, and abilities:
Counter defensive pressure before it takes its toll with early offense initiative.
Take the initiative with Early Offense and counter defensive pressure before it takes its toll.
Look to break on every possession.
Move from push to flow to continuity phases of early offense without hesitation.
Play disruptive, tenacious defense
Tough defense enhances the effectiveness of Early Offense.
Force opponents into taking bad or rushed shots, and turnovers in order to create easy transition baskets.
Tenacious defense enhances the opportunities and effectiveness of Early Offense.
Rebound with authority and determination
Establish good rebound positioning by boxing out.
Execute an effective outlet/inbound pass.
Fake the pass and lob pass or bust out on dribble when opponent overplays or tries to intercept the outlet/inbound pass.
Initial receiver should receive the outlet/inbound pass with back to the sideline in order to see the floor.
Push the ball at all times
Wings must run wide lanes (3 feet from sideline) and see the ball.
Point must advance the ball with a hard speed dribble into the front court within 3-5 seconds.
Keep head and eyes up and analyze defensive deployment prior to crossing half court.
Must attack and score (finish) against all out numbered defensive situations.
Minimize the dribble and pass ahead whenever possible.
Point never penetrates beyond the top of the circle except to shoot a lay up.
On long passes always lead the receiver to the basket (block).
Flow into set offense without disruption
Do not allow the defense time to organize and set up.
Take advantage of any defensive player(s) out of position.
Recognize and take advantage of player mismatches.
End the offensive flow with an organized continuity offense
Move directly into continuity offense when the set offensive flow does not result in a good shot.
Players must stay on balance and maintain poise as shot clock winds down.
Get the ball into the hands of best offensive players.
Go to offensive boards with determined aggressiveness
Scoring is the reward of a successful early offensive scenario.
Assume, however, that every shot will be missed and establish inside rebounding position (box out the defensive rebounder).
Some Thoughts To Consider
Transition begins with defense. Good defense provides for offensive mistakes and errors which are the foundation of a successful break.
You cannot break without the ball. Go get it.
Always look for the fast break opportunity on every possession.
Never start break from dribble. Start dribble from run.
A quick but safe outlet pass is the key to the fast break.
Do not dribble when it is possible to pass ahead.
When throwing a long pass, lead receiver to the basket (elbow).
Anticipate and fill lanes quickly. Run wide and see the ball.
Do not expect to get a lay-up every time. Look for the open jumper or bank shot.
Last person down court does not cross half court until the break is stopped.
Quick transition is a must in attacking zone defenses.
Must be in better physical shape than any opponent.
Receive passes with feet in air and make a jump stops.
Go to the offensive boards. Must score to be successful.
Most errors and turnovers are committed during the scoring phase of the break.
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