In our “Switching Primer” newsletter, we explored key considerations and various defensive concepts for effectively executing a Switching PNR defensive scheme. Within the newsletter, we highlighted strategies to prevent mismatches, including “Loaded Side Hits.” {đź”’} This strategy involves, after the switch, sending a double team to the perimeter mismatch from the top defender on the 2-Man Side, or Loaded Side…
 |
Zooming In: After the “Hit,” the big recovers to the rim and returns to their original matchup. Meanwhile, the guard involved in the switch rotates off the big and out to the corner, as the corner defender rotates up. This rotation aims to neutralize any size or speed mismatches created by the initial ballscreen switch.
We also discussed an alternative “Hit” scheme, where the double team comes from the guard who has just switched onto the rolling big…
|
“Hit” on the Roll
Similar to a “Loaded Side Hit,” this strategy aims to force the ball out of a primary scorer’s hands while mitigating potential mismatches. In this variation, the “Hit” comes from the initial on-ball defender, who briefly tracks the roller before releasing to double back onto the ballhandler.
Upon examining this strategy, the first question that arises is: if you’re going to double with the guard off the roller, why not simply trap the ballscreen from the outset? The decision to avoid an immediate trap lies in the ability of your opponent to play through the short roll…
|
If the opponent excels at exploiting the short roll, trapping can lead to easy opportunities for them to create open looks for teammates. However, by having the guard momentarily plug the short roll before doubling the ball, the rolling big is more likely to continue to the rim, expecting to capitalize on a perceived size advantage.
|
Zooming In: Examining the rotations behind the trap, the defense can position their next-largest defender at the rim to contest the roller, while the remaining players step up to deny passing lanes. This alignment ensures that the roller is challenged at the rim, while perimeter defenders disrupt potential outlets, forcing the ballhandler to attempt a difficult skip pass under pressure.
Ultimately, scheming against elite players and primary scorers is never a perfect science. Great players thrive on exploiting predictable strategies, especially in late-game scenarios when mismatches are hunted and defensive schemes are tested. The key to sustained success is variety—shifting between strategies like the “Hit” and other ballscreen coverages to keep opponents guessing and prevent them from finding a rhythm. By forcing scorers to adapt, defenses can maximize their chances of success in critical moments.
To learn more on sending “Hits” off the roller and “Hits” from the loaded side view both breakdowns now on SGTV!
