OFFENSIVE PHILOSOPHY
At this age we want to keep the offense simple and allow the boys to simply use their skills and play ball.
For this reason, our offense this season really only has two players in motion, with repeated paths. The three perimeter players are free to attack any holes they see in the defense by way of dribble or pass.
We want them to be free and not have to think too much.
Move the Ball
Passing the ball around the perimeter of this offense is the key to its success.
Everytime we swing the ball from one side to the other, the defense must move. In 4th grade, at some point, one or more of the defenders will be out of position. This is when we attack.
Attack the Gaps
Anytime a perimeter player sees a gap in the zone, they should attack quickly and aggressively by either dribble or pass.
Always Look For the Backside Cut
Anytime the ball is on one side of the floor, the backside players will be left alone. They should be looking to get into passing lanes and look to get the ball.
Anytime the ball is passed to the middle of the offense, the backside player should be cutting to the goal. If they don't get the ball, they should return to their position.
Motion offense
- The offense starts with our three ball handlers around the perimeter of the 3-point line.
- The two post players should start on the block.
- The post player on that side (circle) pops out to the corner to create space.
- The post player on the opposite side (square) goes to towards the ball looking to get the ball.
- The opposite wing player (triangle) looks to get into any open space looking for the ball.
From here we're looking to get the ball in the middle if it's open, or attack by way of dribble if it's not. If neither option is there, we can get the ball back to the point guard (X) and the cycle starts over. The two post players (circle & square) return to their original positions.
Idealy we want to move the ball from side to side 3-5 times each posession. This will move the defense and tire them out.