LEVEL 2Transition5v5
The Second Wave
Not every fast break ends in a layup — and that's fine, because the attack isn't over. The secondary break is the second wave: the defense has bodies back, but they're not organized yet. Matchups are wrong, defenders are still finding their men, and the trailing big is just arriving. Flow straight into action — a quick screen for the ball, a pass to the trailer, a post-up against the smaller player who got stuck there. The worst thing you can do is pull the ball out and let the defense take a breath.
READ THIS
Scan the retreating defense as you cross half court — who is guarding the wrong man, and whether the screen defender's feet are set for coverage.
DO THIS
Flow directly into a drag screen or a trailer touch without slowing down, and attack any cross-match before the defense can switch it back.
COACHING LINEAGE
Pat Riley
Transition aggression — push before the defense sets. The best offense happens in the first six seconds.
Steve Kerr
Off-ball movement wins: cut, relocate, space. The defense can only watch one thing.
IN THE SITUATION ROTATION
Your fast break does not produce a layup: the defense has bodies back, but they are cross-matched and still finding their men. Your corners are filled, and your trailing big is arriving behind you at half court.
Appears as a Situation of the Day · 5v5