One of the most effective ways to look at offensive basketball is to view the competition like a race. As an offensive player facing the basket in the half court, I have three main lanes ahead of me (right, left and center). Generally, what keeps me from occupying the center lane initially is the defender in front of me. With this race mindset, you must consider the following key points.
1.) You must be in a correct ready position (prepared to shoot) when starting this race from the moment you receive the ball.
2.) You must be a shooting threat from behind the 3 point arc to clearly control every aspect of the race. At least give the impression that you are a threat until that part of your game is developed.
3.) You must value and protect the ball as the opponent becomes a closely guarded defender.
4.) You must not allow the defender to intimidate you or force you to step back from your starting ready position. When crowded by the defender, step into the center of his body forcing him to retreat. This move, commonly referred to as a ’jab’ step, creates space and can effectively keep the defense off balance and vulnerable, and keeps you in control of the race.
5.) You must control the race at all times (when it starts, what occurs during it, and when it ends).
6.) You must execute a ‘stay low, fake high’ ball fake before moving into the lane of your choice.
7.) You must start the race with an explosive first step, it should occupy the inside lane (right or left), and should clear the defender’s shoulder.
8.) You must limit the number of dribbles during the race and effectively use this fundamental to your benefit.
NOW THE RACE HAS BEGUN! Remember, if you have followed the key points above, you are in control of the race and now need to be able to execute the following to complete this race with successful results.
(1) You need to be able to attack the defender (right and left) and finish at the rim if the defender or his teammates do not recover.
(2) You need to be able to attack the defender (right and left), and with the defender on his heels and in recovery, shoot the pull-up jump shot. Having a ‘Middle Game’ is critical to consistently winning the race.
(3) You need to be able to attack the defender (right and left), and with the defender on his heels and in recovery, read the reaction of the other defenders and make a productive pass to a teammate.
(4) You need to be able to attack the defender (right and left), and with the defender on his heels and in recovery, read the reaction of the other defenders and execute a counter move that leads to a play at the rim, a pull-up jump shot or productive pass to a teammate.
(5) You need to be able to protect the ball and sweep it through (low, tight and below your knees) when going in the direction of your off hand.
(6) You need to be able to occupy the center lane when possible to completely cut off the defender from any type of recovery.
(7) You need to be able, as stated earlier, to shoot effectively from behind the 3 point arc if you truly want to control the race.
It is the complete player who is in control of the race; therefore, don’t shortchange any of the areas above. The only thing keeping you from achieving your goals is your lack of dedication to pursuing them.