Newsletter #321

The 3-point line has changed basketball, more so now than ever.  At the pro level, gone are the days of slow, methodical play dominated by back-to-the-basket big men and half-court sets.  Today’s game is fast and driven by two key concepts: pace and space. The “Pace and Space” offense has become big at the pro level—but is also gaining headway in college, high school and even youth basketball.  It builds on the idea of positionless basketball.

Pace... is about playing fast and pushing the ball up the court as fast as possible, before the defense can get set.  This involves rebounding with a quick outlet pass and speed dribbling or quick passing up the court, trying to score within the first 6 - 10 seconds of the shot clock.

Space... is about positioning players around the 3-point arc so that the inside is open, the defense is stretched and there is less opportunity for defensive help.  This includes moving your "bigs" to the perimeter in a 5-out set, or a high horns set, or perhaps a 4-out, 1-in set if one post player just cannot play on the outside.  This post player can be active as a ball-screener and roller... still trying to keep from clogging the inside.  High ball-screens, players in the corners (to stretch the defense), and constant movement are hallmarks.

Players try to score with either the open 3-point shot, or by dribble-penetration for a lay-up or a kickout pass to an open 3-point shooter. Mid-range jumpshots are not part of this offense.

Spacing pulls defenders away from the hoop, creates lanes for the dribble-drive and kick, and forces the defense to cover more ground, with less defensive help.

Point guards must be able to push, dribble-penetrate, create plays and score.  Wings have to be good 3-point shooters, cutters and able to dribble-drive.  Post players can set screens and roll or pop. Post players are now becoming 3-point threats as well.

Some personal thoughts... it's great at the pro and collegiate level where you have a whole team of great "positionless" players.  Fun to watch.

Youth players can't shoot the 3 yet and are not as skilled in ball-handling, making decsions and playing fast.  So no, but you can start teaching them and put them on the path. 

High school teams may have a few good 3-point shooters, but you need more than a few as the pace of the game will require you to use your bench, maybe 8 or 10 deep.  Late in the game, 3-point shooting percentages often decline when players have tired legs.  I've seen high school teams "light it up" the first half, but go cold the second half.  And in post-season tournament play, one cold night and you're done... "live by the 3, die by the 3."

Less skilled teams will be faced with more turnovers, when trying to play faster than they are capable.  "Be quick, but never hurry." - John Wooden.

For more, see "Pace and Space Offense".