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2.2.2.1. Disadvantage Transition Defense: 2-on-1

 

(1) Q: How do we defend 2-on-1 (two offense, one defense) in transition?

A: Similar to equalized/advantage transition defense, you will want to sprint back and identify the largest threats. However, since you are at a disadvantage, you will have to decide between several options:  

  • Commit 100% to defending the ball-handler. If successful, you can disrupt the ball-handler and slow them down, try to take a charge, or make them force a bad pass leading to a turnover. If not successful, the ball-handler will easily be able to pass to the other offensive player for a high percentage shot.

(Defense committing 100% to the ball-handler)

  • Play back near the hoop. If successful, you have a greater chance of defending both players in a smaller space, and protecting the basket. If not successful, both offensive players will be able to get very close to the hoop for higher percentage shots.

(Defense playing back near the basket)

  • Middle disruption; make the offense unsure of what you are doing. For instance, you can stunt at the ball-handler, making them think you are going to defend them. This perhaps will force the ball-handler to pick up the ball early and make a pass. You can then anticipate the pass to try to steal/disrupt, with your momentum taking you to the other player. You can then repeat this action with the other offensive player, making them unsure of what you will do (defend them, or play back). This will help slow down the offense a little bit, perhaps force a shot farther out/not in rhythm, and give a chance for a steal/turnover.

(Defense employing middle disruption)

SKILLS DRILLS

Skills Drill #1: 2-on-1 Transition (Half Court) 

2 offensive players will line up near half-court, one with the ball. 1 defensive player will start around the free-throw line. 

The offense will start their transition offense from half-court, and the defender will try to stop them. Offense has 5 seconds to score. New offensive players will rotate on afterwards. The defender stays on against all offensive players, then rotates. The defender with the most stops wins.

Skills Drill #2: 2-on-1 Transition (Full Court) 

2 offensive players will line up along the baseline. 1 defensive player will start on the free-throw line. 

The coach will pass the ball to an offensive player. Once the coach passes the ball, offense will begin their transition offense, and defense will begin their defensive transition. Offense has 8 seconds to score. New offensive players will be in line at the opposite end of the floor, and will rotate on afterwards. The defender stays on against all offensive players, then rotates. The defender with the most stops wins.