STRUCTURES AND STRATEGIES

HIGHER/INTERMEDIATE 2

PHYSICAL EDUCATION

THIS IS THE THIRD AND FINAL SECTION OF THE COURSE.

AGAIN THIS SECTION LOOKS AT IMPROVEMENT THROUGH THE CYCLE OF ANALYSIS.

1. Observe/re-observe your performance2. Collate results of observation3. Identify strengths and weaknesses 4. Compare to a model performance 5. Prepare plan on action6. Complete training programme

STRUCTURES AND STRATEGIES

You must know the following:

Definition of structureDefinition of strategy An attacking and defending structure or strategy in

detail: Roles and Relationships How it Works The Aim/Purpose Benefits/LimitationsWhat it looks like

KEY CONCEPT 1

How the fast break works

The fast break can be broken down into 3 stages: Beginning, Execution and Finish.

Beginning Good defence is the best means of starting the fast

break. A team must fi rst gain posssion through aggressive defence. Rebounding, blocking shots , steals, interceptions. You may also start a fast break from an end line ball.

FAST BREAK

ExecutionSuccess is determined by the speed of the break

away. The fastest players should therefore be positioned closest to the opponents basket when defending (the top of the key). These players should use their judgement to anticipate when possession will be gained and move early to ‘fi ll the lanes’.

A key word such as “ball” can be used to signal a fast break when possession has been gained. A quick ‘outlet pass’ should be made to a player (normally the point guard) who has taken up a position in either one of the wide lanes. The outlet pass should avoid the traffi c in the key (don’t pass across the key). Outlet pass to the side on which the ball has been rebounded.

FAST BREAK

FinishThe finish will depend on the overload situation

created by the fast break. 2v1 and 3v2 situations are most common and often result in a high percentage shot e.g. a lay up. Support players should stay wide and available and look to cut to the basket from around the 3 point line. Care should be taken not to congest the area, as this will make the defenders job easier.

FAST BREAK

AN EXAMPLE OF A FAST BREAK

DRAW DIAGRAM. YOU WILL NEED A RULER.

When #4 rebounds the ball on the right side of the basket, #2 clears toward the sideline to take #4's outlet pass. #1 slides to the middle and receives a pass from #2. #2 and #3 fill their lanes as before.

CENTREThe Centre is responsible for rebounding and playing the outlet pass to the guard.

GUARDThe guard decides if the fast break option is on and signals the start of the fast break by shouting “ball”. He receives the outlet pass and drives down the centre of the court towards the opposition basket.

FORWARDThe forwards have to anticipate the fast break happening and be have to be fast on their feet to fi ll in the outside lanes. They then have to drive towards the key to fi nish the move with a high percentage shot (e.g. lay up).

POSITIONS AND RESPONSIBILITY

The main objective of the fast break is to get the ball up the court quickly and accurately to create a scoring opportunity by:

Creating an overload – 2 v 1 and 3 v 2 are the most common numerical advantages in the fast break. These usually result in an easy lay up or close range jump shot.

Not giving opponents a chance to set their defence (zone) – The fast break creates confusion and uncertainty among defenders and does not allow them to get into their positions.

Creating a mismatch against man to man defence – Ideally the fast break will allow you to get your good ball handlers and close range shooters against poor defenders. Possibly tall against short, fast against slow etc.

Discourage opposition from rebounding – a team that is skil led in performing the fast break will discourage other teams from sending too many players to contest for rebounds. Opposing teams will therefore tend to hold one or two players back from outright attack for frear that they will get caught with a fast break.

BENEFITS OF A FAST BREAK

The following qualities are crucial to the success of the fast break strategy.

Physical fi tness – players must have good levels of CRE to maintain performance througout the duration of the game (4 x 10 mins). They will require good CRE to perform repeated bouts of the very intense work (sprints up the court). It is very tiring.

Competence in the fundamentals – players require good ball handling skills, passing, dribbling and shooting.

Good Teamwork – This includes a good understanding of roles and responsibilities in fast break situations. Roles and responsibilities will depend on your court position on the court.

Intelligence – Players must know how to initiate the fast break. They need to be able to make quick decisions about where to pass.

DEMANDS OF THE FAST BREAK

1. From an Activity of your choice describe a Structure, Strategy or Composition you have used. (4)

2. Select a Structure, Strategy or Composition you have used. Explain the benefits that can be gained from applying this structure, strategy or composition. (4)

3. Describe in detail, a structure, strategy or composition you have used. Outline the role you have performed when you have performed when applying this structure, strategy or composition. (6)

EXAMPLE EXAM QUESTIONS