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The "Terrific Twenty" Rules for the Princeton-Style Offense

1) If you can pass, dribble, and shoot well, you will always dictate to the defense what they do. If you can't and are not fundamentally sound, they will dictate what you do.

2) You must always see and think on the court, in that order.

3) Don't ever become stationary(stop moving) for more than one second, even if you have the ball, unless you are in the post. Think continuous movement.

4) If overplayed by a defender, don't wait to burn him- go backdoor immediately.

5) If defense is playing you inside, go outside. If the defense is playing you outside, go inside.

6) Hard cuts to the middle will open up the perimeter - cut with conviction!!

7) Make sure you look at the ball when you cut -- be ready for a pass.

8) If you cut through and don't receive the ball, get outside to the perimeter as quickly as possible.

9) Do the opposite of whatever the defense does. :

10) The purpose of the dribble is to get a defender out of position, so dribble with a purpose and in one direction.

11) If you are dribbled at by a teammate, look to go backdoor if played tightly.

12) Be ready to roll back or to the basket on all screens -- go opposite of wherever the cutter goes.

13) Keep good spacing (15-18 feet).

14) If you see there is weak-side help on defense, look to skip opposite and make them pay.

15) Don't go to the ball when closely guarded--go backdoor.

16) With few exceptions, cutters should go opposite of where they came from when going through.

17) Lay-ups and three pointers are what we want to get, in that order.

18) It doesn't matter who scores, as long as someone does.

19) Shots are missed because they are bad shots or the shooter doesn't think they can make them - take good shots!

20) Work hard to make things easy. ' , • • • •

Basic Setup and Positions

There is no typical 1,2,3, 4, and 5 positions in this offense. There are two guards, two forwards and a center. The two guards should be a little above the hash marks, spread apart about fifteen feet. The two forwards should be outside the three point line at the foul line extended. The center should start on the low post block opposite the ball.(Figure 1-1) The center can also start at the high post position.(Figure 1-2)

Starting the Offense

To start the offense, we will always get some movement, called our "dummy offense", going to make the defense defend us for ten to twelve seconds. The only time we would not do this if we are behind at the end of a game and need to score quickly. The center starts low but cuts hard to a point about even with the hash marks and in the middle of the floor. He receives a pass here, while both guards cut through and then back up to the original spots off rub screens by the forwards. (Figure 1-3)

Figure 1-1 Figure 1-2

Figure 1-3

When the center passes off to one of the guards, he goes back to his designated spot on either the high or low post, and the guards can enter the ball for the play to begin.(Figure 1-4)

The guards can also continue to run the dummy offense by passing guard to guard and exchanging with the forwards (Figure 1-5) or passing guard to wing and having the wing dribble up to the guards spot. (Figure 1-6)

ri

Figure 1-4


There are several different options here, and this can be used to take time off or just make the defense work a little bit. If they get lazy, we can always cut backdoor and look for a lay-up. (Figure 1-7)

Basic Concepts in the Princeton Offense

These are explanations of some of the key concepts and movements that make our offense go. Players must understand these concepts and be able to execute them in order to be successful.

Types of Cuts

Figure 1-7

10

#1 - Dive Cut - This is a cut made by the guards in which they cut off of the center out to the blocks with the intention of cutting back up to the perimeter off the perimeter downscreen.(Figure 1-8)

#2 - Strongside Cut - This is a cut made by a guard in which they cut through to the key and then to the ballside corner. (Figure 1-9)

#3 - Weakside Cut - This is a cut made by a guard in which they cut through to the key and then to the

weakside corner. (Figure 1-10)When the center passes off to one of the guards, he goes back to his designated spot on either the high or low post, and the guards can enter the ball for the play to begin.(Figure 1-4)

rrFigure 1-8

Figure 1-9

Figure 1-4

The guards can also continue to run the dummy offense by passing guard to guard and exchanging with the forwards (Figure 1-5) or passing guard to wing and having the wing dribble up to the guards spot. (Figure 1-6)

There are several different options here, and this can be used to take time off or just make the defense work a little bit. If they get lazy, we always back door

- Shuffle Cut - This is a cut made by a guard off of the pass in which they cut off a high post center screen to the low post block on the opposite side of the court. (Figure 1-11)

Figure 1-6Figure 1-5

Figure 1-7

Figure 1-11

#5 - UCLA Cut - This is a cut made by a guard off of the pass in which they cut off a high post center screen to the low post block on the same side of the court. (Figure 1-12)

#6 - Backdoor Cut - This is a cut made directly to the basket from anywhere on the court when a defender is overplaying the passing lanes or when a player is dribbled at by a teammate. (Figure 1-13)

#7 - Duck In Cut - This is a cut made by a guard off a pass to the wing. The guard dives toward the ballside elbow but then pops back out to the top of the key using a rub screen from the center. Following the pass back to the guard, the center usually runs a pick and roll with the guard. If the rub screen is not successful in getting the guard open, he cuts off of it to the basket and the center pops out. (Figure 1-14)

- Rub Cut - This is a cut made by any player

Figure 1-12

Figure 1-13

Figure 1-14

that cuts off a stationary teammate toward the basket with the intention of receiving a handoff from the teammate. (Figure 1-15)

Screens

# 1 - Downscreen - This is a screen made from the forward spot toward the block to bring a teammate back up to the wing spot. Sometimes this is initiated with a backdoor cut first, then it turns into a downscreen. On all downscreens, players should look to seal their defender and post.(Figure 1-16)

#2 - Backscreen - This is made by any guard or forward from the low post block when a center is at the high post and wants to post up low. The screener comes to the-high post, sets the screen, and then pops out to the top of the key. (Figure 1-17)

#3 - Rubscreen - This is any stationary screen set by the high post center on cutters going to the basket. (Figure 1-18)

Figure 1-15

Figure 1-16

Figure 1-17

Figure 1-18

#4 - Flare/Fadescreen - This is a weakside backscreen usually set from the forward spot, or a center coming from the low or high post to the top of the key. It is set on a defender that is cheating too far to the ballside of the floor, and allows a skip pass to be thrown weakside for an open perimeter shot. The action of the player being screened for is usually away from the basket. (Figure 1-19)

#5 - Screen Towards - This is any screen from the forward or guard spots in which a pass is made in one direction and the passer then looks to screen towards the pass. This is usually done when the center is occupying the high post. (Figure 1-20)

#6 - Screen Away - This is any screen from the forward or guard spots in which a pass is made in one direction and the passer then looks to screen away from the pass. This is usually done when the center is occupying the high post. (Figure 1-21)

#7 - Double Screen - This is a downscreen set from any location on the floor by two players trying to free one teammate up, either coming up to the perimeter for an open shot or cutting toward the basket for a layup. (Figure 1-22)

Figure 1-20

Figure 1-21

Quick Hitters and Plays

Figure 1-22

This offense is designed to get shots out of what the defense does and how the players respond to it. There are not set plays that are called, but at the end of quarters or in certain situations, these plays can be diagrammed to get several open shots and still fall within the structure of the offense.

Double Screen for Cutting Guard for Three Pointer

Figure 6-2

The guard should pass to the wing and make a UCLA cut off the center(Figure 6-1). The center pops out, dribbles at the weakside defenders, and looks to pass. As soon as the center gets the pass, the weakside guard and forward should move to the foul line extended to set a double screen for the cutter coming back out(Figure 6-2). If the pass is not there, the screeners can roll to the basket for a shot.Play #2 Screen the Screener for a Three Pointer

This play starts the exact same as the first one, with the guard passing to the

Play#1

IFigure 6-1


wing, UCLA cutting off the center, and the center stepping out for the pass(Figure 6-3). When the weakside guard and forward start to move down, the cutter should find the forward's defender to set a backpack on. After that screen, the weakside guard will set a downscreen for the first cutter, looking for a three point shot(Figure 6-4).

Play # 3 Wing Backdoor with Double Screen

This play starts with the center in the low post and a guard to guard pass. The passing guard cuts through and the other guard dribbles at the center, who comes to the high post(Figure 6-5). An automatic wing backdoor is made when the center receives the pass. The weakside forward and passing guard set a double screen for the first guard who cut(Figure 6-6).

Play #4 Dribble Handoff with a Double Screen



This play starts with the guard dribbling at the other guard, who cuts backdoor. The center can be used as a high pick here. If the guard can drive, he can take it in. If not, he should pass to the forward coming up who will dribble back to the middle of the floor(Figure 6-7). After the high screen by five, he and the weakside forward will set a double screen for the guard who cut backdoor(Figure 6-8).

Location #1 “HIGH” P=Post player and also #5Post player has the ball approximately 6-8 steps beyond 3-point arc.

THE BACKDOOR OFFENSEPart One ----- Foundations of the Backdoor Offense

A. Location of Post1.high2.Low3.Side Post4. Top of Key

Part Two ------ High to Low SeriesA. Circle entryB. “X” entryC. Back Screen entryD. Circle Entry 5 to 1E. FlaresF. Special OptionG. Tiger OptionH. Black OptionI. Black Option to Low

Part Three ------ Side / Shuffle Cut Series to Top of Key SeriesA. Top of Key SeriesB. Orange Series

1. Orange optionC. Blue OptionD. White Option

Part Four ------ Additional OptionsA. Rocket

1. Rocket OptionB. Spread OptionC. Cardinal OptionD. Astro Option

Part Five ----- Special SetsA. High Series “Flare”B. ScissorsC. IsoD. TriangleE. Circle SpecialF. Dribble EntryG. StateH. Shirt

I. Lob SetJ. SprintK. Sprint Pressure releaseL. UCLAM. Shuffle Cut

Part Six ------ Breakdown DrillsA. 2-0 Back door lay-upB. 2-0 Hand offC. 3-0 FlaresD. 4-0 Flares to penetration and Pitch.

Location #2 “Low Post” Post player can occupy either block looking to score.

Location #3 “Side Post” Post player is anchored at either elbow.

Location #4 “Top of Key” Post player occupies spot approximately one step beyond 3- point arc.

PART 2 HIGH LOW SERIES

“High to Low Series”“Circle Entry”Players are in a 2-3 high set1 passes to 3, 3 pass to 5 on a step out.1 and 2 are basket cutting, then coming off screens by 4 and 3.5 can pass to 1 or 2.3 and 4 look to slip the screens.If defenders on 1 and 2 “play the play,” then 1 and 2 can fake coming off the screen and back door for a lay-up.


“High to Low Series” “X” EntryPlayers are in a 2-3 high set2 passes to 4, 4 pass to 5 on a step out1 and 2 basket cut, criss-cross, 2 gets a screen from 3 and 1 gets a screen from 45 can pass to 1 or 2 at any time for a jumper off the screen4 and 3 can look to slip the screens on the switch


“High to Low Series” “Back screen” EntryPlayers are in a 2-3 high set1 passes to 3, 3 pass to 5 on a step out1 and 2 basket cut, criss-cross, set back screens for 3 and 4.Note: 3 and 4 must wait on the back screenIf 3 and 4 are not open, pass to 1 or 2on a step out and into continuity offense.


“High to Low Series” Offense has executed the circle entry5 passes to 1.


“High to Low Series” 5 screens for 4.1 passes to 44 quickly reverses the ball to 2.


“High to Low Series” 4 cuts to weak side corner after passing to 2.2 passes to 5 in the post looking for a shot1 screens 3 coming to the top of the key.


“High to Low Series” 2 gets return pass from 52 dribbles out 3 and 1 passes to 4


“High to Low Series” Flare ScreensAfter passing to 4, 5 sets a flare screen for 23 is setting a flare screen for 15 and 3 can slip screens for easy lay up4 passes to 1

PART 2 HIGH LOW SERIES“High to Low Series” Special OptionAfter 4 passes to 1, 4 down screens for 51 passes to 5, who quickly reverses the ball to 2.4 up screens for 5 for a post isolation


“High to Low Series” Tiger Option2 cuts through on pass to 51 runs to set screen for 4, 4 can back cut or curl1can slip the screen3 is down screening for 2


“High to Low Series”: Special option to low series2 has the ball, 4 cuts to opposite corner5 looks to post1 screens for 3


“High to Low Series”: “Black” option1 passes to 5 on a step out to the “High” position2 basket cuts hard1 cuts behind 5for a return flip pass5 relocates to set a double screen with 34 takes the handoff from 1 and looks to pass to 2 coming off of 3 and 5’s double screen.

PART 2 HIGH LOW SERIES“High to Low Series” “Black” option4 has passed to 2, 2 is not open for the shot2 now dribbles at 4and 4 back cuts to the weak side.1 fills high

“Black” “ option to Low”1 receives pass from 22 fades to the wing3 now rubs off 5 and gets a pass from 13 can pass to 5on a duck in or 2 on the wingIf 3 passes to 2, he will cut opposite and now it is in low series.

Part Three Side/ Shuffle Cut Series to top of Key series

Basic alignment is a 2-3 high set with the postman occupying either elbow1 man reverses the ball to 2, then ball is swung from 2 to 4On the flight of the ball from 2 to 4, 1 is cutting hard off of 5’s back screen for a lay upIf 1 is not open, 4 looks to pass to 2 off the flare screen from 5.


4 passes to 2 but 2 has no jumper2 swings ball to 3 and 5 sets another flare screen for 21 has cleared to the corner.


2 catches and has the option 1-shoot2-drive for a lay up3- kick to 4 or 1 for a jump shot

Part Three Side/ Shuffle Cut Series to top of Key series (Continuity 1A)

The following two diagrams will illustrate the side/shuffle series as a continuity you desire to run it as such2 passes to 1 who reverses to 32 is cutting off 5’s screen on the flight of the ball from 1 to 31 receives flare from 5

Part Three Side/ Shuffle Cut Series to top of Key series (Continuity 1B)

1 was not open off 5’s flare screen, so he cuts through3 dribbles to the guard spot, 3 passes to 4who has filled the other guard spot4 reverses ball to 1, who has filled the forward spot (as has 2 on the weak side)On pass from 4 to 1, 3 cuts hard off of 5.4 will then receive flare from 5 and continuity is established.


The following diagrams will illustrate the execution of the “side/shuffle” series into “top of the key” series with several special options included1 passes to 2 who swings top 4. 1 cuts off 5 looking for a lay up. 2 gets flare from 5 but isn’t open so he cuts through.


4 passes to 5 on a step out, 5 dribbles hard at 3 who back cuts to the block1 has filled weak side corner2 steps up for pass from 5


5 passes to 25 now receives an up screen from 3 for post isolation2 can pass to 5 directly or step out and look to feed 5 on a duck in.


“Orange” option to “Low” seriesIf defense takes away post isolation by 5 and 3 being denied, 2 dribbles at 3 –3 back cuts to fill opposite corner4 screens for 1 and we are now in a “Low” series with 5 occupying the low post


“Orange” option to “Low” seriesIf defense takes away post isolation by 5 and 3 being denied, 2 dribbles at 3 –3 back cuts to fill opposite corner4 screens for 1 and we are now in a “Low” series with 5 occupying the low post


“Blue option” out of side/shuffle seriesThis action offers an outstanding counter if 5’s defender is giving deep help on the shuffle cutAfter 2 cuts off 5, 1 screens for 5 for an open jump shot.


“White” option out of “Side/Shuffle” seriesThis option works great when defenders begin to anticipate the shuffle cut by their offensive playerBall has been swung to 4 and 1 cuts off 5 1 now comes off double staggered screen from 2 and 5 for a jump shot opportunity

Part 4 additional options

“Additional scoring Options”: “Rocket” option1 dribbles hard at 2, 2 cuts through screening for 55 pops to high post elbow1 spins away from 5 and passes to 31 gets a flare screen from 5


“Additional scoring Options”: “Rocket” option1 looks for jumper off 5’s flare screen1 has an option: 1 can swing to 4 and get another flare from 5 looking for a jump shot.


“Additional scoring Options”: “Rocket” optionThe next option 1 has is to give dribble handoff to 44 takes two dribbles, jump stops, reverse pivots and passes to 1 on a back cut.


“Additional scoring Options”: “Spread” option1 passes to 4 after dribbling to middle on the flight of the pass, 2 cuts backdoor looking for a pass from 4.1 fills to the wing spot.


“Additional scoring Options”: “Spread” option4 passes to 5 if 2 is not open on the back door4 then down screens for 2

Part 4 Additional Options

“Additional scoring Options”: “Spread” option5 reverses the ball to 2. 2 passes to 14 now up screens for 2 for an isolation in the post


“Additional scoring Options”: “Cardinal” optionPlayers are in Side/Shuffle alignment1 dribbles at 4 and spins back and passes to 55 looks to pass to 3 on a back door2 has faded to weak side cornerIf 3 is not open, he walks back outside to the 3-pt arc.


“Additional scoring Options”: “Cardinal” option5 has two options now, as 3 was not open on the back door. He can pass to 2 coming off a double screen from 1 and 4 or he can look to pass to 3 after dribbling at him to freeze 3’s defender.


“Additional scoring Options”: “Astro” option1 dribbles at 2 and gives him a hand off 2 looks to pass to 1 on a back cutif 1 is not open, 2 passes to 3.


“Additional scoring Options”: “Astro” option1 was not open so 2 has passed to 32 Down screens for 55 gets pass from 3 then reverses to 4


“Additional scoring Options”: “Astro” option4 has the ballAfter 5 passes to 4, 2 sets a back screen for 5 for post isolationIf 5 is not open immediately, 4 can pass to 2 on a step out for a jumper or pass to 5 on a duck- in

Part 5 Special Sets

“High Series”: Flare for 3pt shootPlayers are in a 2-3 alignment1 passes to 2, 2 passes to 5 at the high poston the pass from 2 to 5, 1 cuts in and receives flare screen from 3 for a jump shot

Part 5 Special Sets

Special Set: Scissors” (A)Players are in a 2-3 alignment2 passes to 5, 2 and 1 then will scissor off 5 for a hand off of open, 2 goes first5 reverses pivots and squares to the basket

Part 5 Special Sets

Special Set: Scissors” (B)1, 2 now criss-cross and receive down screens from 3 and 45 looks to pass to 1 and 2 for a jump shot

Part 5 Special Sets

“Special Sets”: ISOPlayers are in a 2-31 passes to 3 on the wing, 1 then cuts hard to the corner5 dives hard to the block4 V cuts hard to fill the high post area, receives ball from 3

2 fills 1 ‘s spot4 looks to pass to 5 on the duck-in

Part 5 Special Sets

Special Set: “ Triangle” (A)Players are in a 2-3 set2 passes to 5 on a step out1 and 2 basket cut hard and criss-cross,getting screens from 3 and 4

Part 5 Special Sets

Special Set: “ Triangle” (B)5 passes to 1, 3 now cross screens for 41 looks to pass to 4 for a lay up5 then screens for 3 looking FT line jump shot

Part 5 Special Sets

Special Set: “ Circle Special” (A)Players in 2-3 alignment1 passes to 3, 3 passes to 5 on a step out high1, 2 are basket cutting, then receiving screens for 3 and 4

Part 5 Special Sets

Special Set: “ Circle Special” (B)5 passes to 3 or 4 as they flash back to 5 after setting screenon the pass , 1 steps high and back doors his man for an easy lay up

Set this play by running “circle” entry

Part 5 Special Sets

Special Set: “Dribble Entry” (A)Players are in a 2-3 alignment2 dribbles hard at 4who back cuts his man to the paintAt the same time, 1 is coming off back screen from 5 looking for a lay up

Part 5 Special Sets

Special Set: “Dribble Entry” (B)If 1 is not open, 2 can pass to 4 coming off a double staggered screen from 5,3

Part 5 Special Sets

Special Set: “State” (A)Players are in a 2-3 alignment1 passes to 3, 5 back picks for 1 looking for a lob passif not open, 5 steps out for reversal of pass from 3.

Part 5 Special Sets

Special Set: “State” (B)5 takes two hard dribbles to the left and swings the ball to 2, 2 uses 4’s flare screen

At the same time (flight of the ball from 5 to 2) 1 has gone to set a cross screen for 3 looking for a post feed.

Part 5 Special Sets

Special Set: “State” (C)

If no shot exists for 2 or 3, then 4 and 5 proceed to set a double staggered ball screen for 2 who looks to create 1 drifts to the corner spotting up for a jumper.

Part 5 Special Sets

Special Set: “Shirt” (A)

Players are in a 2-3 alignment1 passes to 32 cuts off 5, 1 then cuts off 54 sprints to the top of the key for ball reversal

Part 5 Special Sets

Special Set: “Shirt” (B)

3 passes to 4 for ball reversal1 cuts hard to wing for ball reversal from 4on flight of the ball from 4 to 1, 3 cuts off 2’s back screen for a lay upIf 3’s not open, 1 can pass to 2 off a double-staggered screens by 5 and 4

Part 5 Special Sets

“Lob” play set (A)

3 and 4 “L” cut out1 passes to 35 occupies the high post

Part 5 Special Sets

“Lob” play set (B)

On the pass from 1 to 3, 4 dead sprints to ball side cornerAt the same time, 1 fakes away and comes to get a flip back pass from 33 now runs his man off 5’s screen for a lob from 12 must fill ball-side guard spot to take away help

Part 5 Special Sets

“Sprint” pressure release (A)2 passes to 3, then basket cuts hard1, 4 are interchanging weak side5 occupies the high post

Part 5 Special Sets

“Sprint” pressure release (B)

3 has the ball. As soon as 2 has reached the block, 3 dribbles hard to the top of the keyAfter basket cutting, 2 sprints to replace 3 on the wingWhen 3 gets to top of the key, he jump stops, reverse pivots and ball fakes 22 back doors his man for an easy lay up

Part 5 Special Sets

“UCLA” for a 3 point shot (A)

1 passes to 3: on the flight of the pass, 5 back screens for 2, then back screens for 15 then steps out for ball reversal

Part 5 Special Sets

“UCLA” for a 3 point shot (B)

5 now has the ball2 is now coming off a double staggered screen for open 3 point shot

Part 5 Special Sets

“Shuffle Cut” Series: More options (A)

Players are in a 2-3 alignment1 reverses the ball to 2, 2 passes to 4On the flight of the ball from 2 to 4, 5 back screens for 1, then 2

Part 5 Special Sets

“Shuffle Cut” Series: More options (B)5 steps out for a pass from 41 now back screens for 4, 2 back screens for 35 is looking for 4 or 3 for an easy lay up5 also looks to pass to 1 or 2 on a step out for a jump shot

Part 5 Special Sets

“Shuffle Cut” Series: More options (C)

5 passes to 2 on a step out4 sets back screen for 5, looking for a lob3 now sets an up screen for 4 looking for 4 rolling to the hoop off the screen

Break down drills #1

Break down drill #1

O1 dribbles hard at O2 O2 fakes high, back doors for a lay upPass must be a bounce pass leading players to the basketMake sure players are cutting in straight line to the basketGo from both sides


Break down drill #2

Same drill as #1, just different locationO1 dribbles hard at O2, who fakes high and cuts back doorSame teaching points as drill #1Go from both sides of the floor


Break down drill #3O1 dribbles hard at O2. O2 accepts dribble hand off from O1. O1 must dribble directly at O2’s defenderO2 now has 3 optionsA. O2 can shoot off the hand offB. He can drive straight to the hoopC. He can take the ball , dribble hard, and pass to O1 on the back door

Break down drills #3 (cont.) Option A

Break down drill #3

O2 has ball off the hand off and shoots a jump shotGo from several locations on the floor

Break down drills #3 (cont) Option B

Break down drill #3O2 has received dribble hand off from O1O2 takes hand off and dribbles straight to the hoop

Break down drills #3 (cont) Option C

Break down drill #3 option CO2 has received dribble hand off from O1O2 dribbles hard, jump stops, reverse pivots, passes to O1 with a back door pass


Break down drill #4 O1 passes to O3, O1 cuts in and fades off a flare from O5O1 must cut hard to create proper screening angle for O5O1 can shoot jumper or drive to the hoopGo from both sides

Break down drills # 5

Break down drill #5 O1 passes to O3, cuts in, receives flare screen from O5O3 passes to O1and O1 drives to the hoop and pitches to O2 for a jump shotGo from both sides of floor5 must work religiously at getting himself in good screening position/angles

Princeton Offense—Part I--Reading (the defense) is fundamentalBy Fran FraschillaSpecial to ESPN.com

Pete Carril's last win as the coach at Princeton, a stunning upset over UCLA in the first round of the 1996 NCAA Tournament, will always be remembered for its final play: the "trademark" back-door lay-up.

Although the Yoda of college basketball has spent the last six years in relative obscurity as an assistant coach and consultant for the Sacramento Kings, his legacy continues to live on in the college and NBA game. Just look at teams like Princeton, North Carolina State, Northwestern, Air Force, Samford and the New Jersey Nets. Each employs Carril's system of offense with a good deal of success.

With a premium placed on passing, cutting and intelligent movement without the basketball, the offense is the epitome of what good team basketball should look like. There is an understanding that offense is a series of two- and three-man plays and that all five players cannot compete for the ball but, rather, share it.

We will cover, in the next two Basketball 101 "classes", the Princeton Offense, in two parts: the Low Post offense and the High post offense. Pay attention and don't turn your head or you'll get "back doored".

Part I: The Low Post Offense

Find the Center: The offensive thinking in the Princeton system is for the ball to go through the center so that he can be the playmaker. So, in both transition or in a half-court set the important thing is to "find the center" or the 5 man.

Alignment: The offense starts in a 2-2-1 alignment with the center (5) on the ball side. It is important to determine the places on the court from which your perimeter players can best drive to the middle. It really helps if all of

those players can dribble and pass from both sides of the court.

First cut: The 1 passes to 3 on the wing and cuts through to the opposite corner. Every single cut in the offense must be made at full speed and with authority. The 2 then fills in at the top of the key.

First Back Door: If 5 is fronted in the low post and the offense cannot be started through him, 3 dribbles hard at the elbow. If 2's man "tightens up" to overplay the pass to 2 or turns his head to look at the ball, 2 back doors hard to the basket. The 3 is taught make his bounce with one hand off the dribble -- it's a quicker pass than picking the ball up with two hands -- right off 2's defender's butt.

Post Feed: The 3 feeds 5 in the low post and drifts to the corner for the possible open 3-point shot if his man leaves to double team. If 3's man doesn't double team 5, the spacing on the perimeter is ideal for 5 to go 1-on-1.

The Next Look

Another Back Door Cut: After 5 catches the ball, 2 cuts through to the opposite corner as 4 fills in at top of key and 1 replaces 4. If 4's man looks for ball or tries to overplay 4, 4 back-door cuts to the basket looking for a bounce pass from 5. This is why it is crucial that the 5 is an excellent passer.

Slip Split: Another option in the offense when 5 has the ball is for 2 to screen away for 4. The 4 must always watch his defender. If the defender starts to cheat over 2's screen, 4 back-door cuts to basket and receives bounce pass from 5.

Pass Out and Dribble At: When the ball is passed out of the low post -- in this case to 2 -- 2 dribbles hard at the next player on the perimeter, the 4. Again, when 4's man turns his head, 4 back-door cuts to basket and looks for a 1-hand bounce pass from 2.

If 4 is not open, 1 replaces 4 and receives the pass from 2. The 4 posts up and 5 comes up to set the "flare screen'" for 2, who gets jump shot on pass from 1.

Another Pass Out and Dribble At: When 5 passes out of low post to 3, remember 2 has cut through and 4 starts to replace him at the top of the key. The 3 dribbles hard at the elbow and sets up back-door cut by 4. The 1 replaces 4 and, if 3 throws it to 1, 5 will "flare screen" for 3 for a jump shot.

Term of the DayBack-Door Cut: Anytime an offensive player on the perimeter is denied a chance to catch a pass, it is an excellent opportunity for him to use the defender's aggressiveness against him by changing direction and cutting to the basket.

Final WordAs you can see, this offense is based on good spacing of your offensive players on the court, the intelligence to "read" how the defenders are playing and, then, executing the fundamentals to make the correct play. It has proven, time and time again, to be a great way to neutralize another team's superior athletic ability -- especially in Princeton's case. So, we'll end Part I with a quote from Pete Carril, "In this life, the big, strong guys are always taking from the smaller, weak guys; but the smart take from the strong."

Now, on to the Princeton high post sets—Part II

By Fran FraschillaSpecial to ESPN.com

In Part I of the Princeton Offense, we covered the low post offense within this system. Now we will cover the high post offense.

Remember, we emphasize how important the center is in this offense because he is the primary playmaker. Also, keep in mind that the other four players are interchangeable, so it would not be unusual to see three or four guards out on the court at the same time.

Part II: The High Post Offense

The alignment and first cut of the high post offense in the Princeton Offense begins when the point guard (1) passes to the off guard (2) and cuts through the elbow area, looking to brush the center's man as center (5) flashes to the elbow. You'll notice that there are three perimeter players on the opposite side of the court from the center.

Pass and Slip SplitOn the pass to the center, notice the backdoor opportunity for the small forward (3) if he is overplayed. After the off guard (2) passes to the center (5), he screens away for the power forward (4), who slips the screen and back-door cuts to basket if his man "cheats" to get over the off guard's screen.

As soon as the power forward (4) cuts, the off guard (2) pops back out for the pass from the center and the shot. Or, when the center (5) comes over to screen, the 2's man naturally "jumps" toward the screen. That allows the off guard (2) to "reject" the screen and drive to the basket.

Notice, also, that on the drive to the basket by the off guard, if the point guard's man leaves to help, the off guard is able to pass to the point. This is known as "penetrate and kick" or "draw and kick" ... as in, draw the defender and kick it to the open man.

Here's an example of the center (5) passing back to the off guard (2), who uses the center's screen as the small forward (3)

down screens for the power forward (4).

Another option if for the off guard (2) to pass to the power forward (4), as the center (5) sets a "flare screen" for him. If the off guard's defender goes under the screen, he has the jump shot.

Now, if the off guard's man follows him over the top of the screen, he has a great driving angle to the basket, and if the point guard's man helps again, we have the "draw and kick". By the way, this is what Dicky V. means when he says a player is a "3-D guy" -- drive, draw and dish.

Pass and Post SplitOn pass to the center (5), the off guard (2) screens for the small forward (3) in a "post split". The small forward "reads" his defender and if the defender plays off him, he will use the screen for the jump shot. The point guard (1) sets a "flare screen" on the other side of the court, primarily to keep the defenders occupied.

Post and Post Slip SplitIf X3 plays his man "tight", the small forward (3) will fake coming off the screen and back-door cut to the basket for a lay-up. Once the 3 back cuts, the off guard (2) pops out to the wing.

As the center (5) passes back to the off guard (2), he will come over to screen for him, and when 2 uses the screen, the center can "pop" out for the jumper, or "roll' to the basket. On the other side of the court, the small forward (3) uses the "staggered double screen."

If the off guard's man jumps toward the screen, 2 drives it baseline, as, hopefully, the "staggered double" will occupy three defenders on the opposite side of the court.

The Spin DribbleOnce the point guard (1) has cut through, and the center (5) flashes to the elbow and is denied a pass, the off guard (2) reads this and spin dribbles back to the power forward (4). If the 4's man "cheats up" as 4 steps to the ball, the power forward will back-door cut as 2 throws the one-handed bounce pass by the defender.

If the power forward (4) is not open, the off guard (2) passes to the point guard (1) as 4 posts up on the block. The off guard then uses 5's "flare screen" for the jump shot.

Or... The drive and the "draw and kick" with 3.

There are so many more options we can get into, but it would take all the college basketball season, the NBA season (remember to watch the New Jersey Nets run this offense) and into next football season. We have given you, however, the basic idea of what to look for in the "Princeton System".

Remember, it is an offense that has been around a very long time in the Ivy League. But, now, Carril's influence has extended to the ACC, the Big Ten, the Mountain West, and the NBA. As the saying goes, "Everything old becomes new again."

Secondary break Princeton

we have 1 entry to the 2 and cut to ballside corner.

the 4 will cut to the weakside corner.

the floor is spaced and we read the help for post feed to the 5 and possible kickouts.

no post feed then the 5 will come to the ballside elbow.

2 passes to 5.

3 cuts hard at 5 and looks to read defender for a possible backdoor

3 doesn't get backdoor he will cut to the corner.

2 will cut and get a handoff from 5.

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Secondary break 5 set a ball screen for 2 and roll down the lane.

3 will come up and replace the top.

Created with Basketball Playbook from www.jes-soft.com 2

Breakdown Drills Page 29

Princeton cont Breakdown drills

Dribble Entry Back Door Four lines to start the drill. The line at the top on the right side should have all of the extra players, each with a basketball. #1 and #2 begin the drill by executing a dribble hand-off on the right side of the floor. As with the rule in the offense, anytime there is a dribble hand-off on the wing, the opposite perimeter players exchange. We are really looking to drill this action so the timing is perfect on the opposite side of the floor. As #2 reaches the FT lane line extended out on top, #3 should be reaching his top FT lane line extended out area. #3 plants his outside foot and cuts to the basket, looking for the backdoor pass from #2.

Dribble Entry Back Door The rotations are quick and simple. #3 shoots the lay-up, gets his rebound and takes the ball back on top. #2 cuts across the top to the other top side of the floor. #5 steps up and immediately starts the next series.

Dribble Entry Back Door #5 now drives at #1 on the right wing to execute the next dribble hand-off. #2 now exchanges with #4. As #1 reaches the top, #4 is reaching the top on his side of the floor. #4 now plants his outside foot and cuts backdoor looking for the pass from #1. #4 makes the lay-up and gets to the end of the line on top. #1 would now slide over to the other top spot on the left side. #5 is in the right wing and #6 is ready to step up and start the next series. Run through until each player gets at least two backdoor lay-ups and then switch to the other side or save for the next day.

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Princeton cont Reverse Pass / Backscreen Option #1 and #2 execute a dribble hand-off on the right wing. #2 drives the ball up to the top, even with the FT lane line extended. #2 then makes the pass across the top to the coach.

Reverse Pass / Backscreen Option As soon as #2 gives up the ball, #5 steps up and backscreens #2's imaginary defender. #2 cuts to the rim looking for the pass back from the coach and makes the lay-up.

Reverse Pass / Backscreen Option The rotations are again quick and simple and should result in the next group starting immediately. #2 makes the lay-up and takes the ball to the end of the line on top. #5, after back screening, cuts to the LEFT side of the floor, down the sideline and then to the back of the line from where he started. It is important that #5 cut across the top after backscreening so that he gets used to following the direction of the pass after backscreening (as this offense would then require him to set a ball screen on the next person who caught the ball). The next person would be the coach in this drill, so if you wanted, you could have the #5 man sprint to the coach after backscreening and then mimick the ball screen before cutting off the court.

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Princeton cont Reverse Pass / Backscreen Option The next player in line, #6 now quickly starts the next series by driving the ball at #1 on the right wing. The same action is repeated.

Post Entry Scissors Option The coach will start with a ball in the mid-lane area. Your post players will line up on the right lane line on the baseline out of bounce. One wing player on the right wing, #1. The rest of the perimeter players should be lined up on top, each with a ball. #6 enters the ball to the post man #5. The rule is that the passer always cuts first, so #6 cuts over the top of #5 first with #1 cutting tightly off the back of #6. It is very important that you drill this over and over so that your players understand the importance of tight cuts. #5 gives the ball to the first cutter #6 while the coach gives the ball to the second cutter #1. #1 takes a power dribble or two and shoots the jump shot.

Post Entry Scissors Option As with all of our breakdown drills, the rotations are quick and simple, ensuring that you will get plenty of reps in a short amount of time. The post player returns to the end of the post line out of bounds under the basket. The person who shot the lay-up, cutting from on top, #6, gets his rebound and throws the ball back to the coach. #6 then cuts to the right wing spot to get ready for the next series. #1 follows his jump shot, rebounds, and then takes the ball to the back of the perimeter line on top.

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Princeton cont Post Entry Scissors Option #7 now drives the ball up and starts the next series by entering the ball to the new post player flashing to the elbow. #7 now cuts through first and gets the ball back from the #5 man while #6 cuts off the back of #7 and receives the pass from the coach. Repeat until each perimeter player gets a couple of shots at each spot. You can switch to the other side of the floor next or wait until the next practice.

Post Dribble Hand-Off Option Now we will breakdown the very effective dribble hand-off option between the post and the perimeter player. This action takes place after the scissors cut on the POST ENTRY option. One perimeter line with each player holding a ball. You post player starts at the FT line ballside elbow area. #7 takes a dribble or two towards the post and then enters the ball. #7 cuts hard past the post player to the low block. #5 is working on a good post up on the elbow, showing a good target to catch the ball and then "chinning" the ball on the catch with elbows out.

Post Dribble Hand-Off Option As soon as #7 cuts by #5, #5 will turn and face and attack the imaginary defender of #7 in the lane. #5 and #7 will execute a dribble hand-off as #7 is cutting up the lane line for the shot. #7 has the option to catch the ball tight for the mid-range jump shot, or to practice popping out to the three point line should his defender try and cut around the ball screen to the inside lane area.

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Princeton cont Post Dribble Hand-Off Option The shooter, #7, quickly follows his shot, rebounds the ball and drives the ball back to the end of the line on top. #5 hustles off the floor to the end of the post line.

Post Dribble Hand-Off Option #3 is now attacking on the dribble ready to start the next series. #3 enters to the flashing post player #5 and cuts past the post to the low block. The drill continues until each player has shot the ball two or three times. Then move to the left side of the floor.

Post Dribble Hand-Off Option Our next drill breakdown is to work on the wing cutter off the POST ENTRY option. The perimeter players are lined up on the right wing. Every OTHER player has a ball, starting with the first person having a basketball. One player, #2 in this diagram, is lined up on the opposite wing, the left wing. To start the drill, #3 drives the ball up to the top lane line extended area (simulating the dribble hand-off and drive to the top). #3 quickly enters the ball to the post player and cuts hard past the post to the ball side low block area. #4, the second player in line, has stepped up and works on timing his cut right off the back of #1. #4 cuts past the post to the opposite FT line elbow area, ready to duplicate the screening action

on the left wing with #2.

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Princeton cont Post Dribble Hand-Off Option #5 now turns and faces, and drives the ball at #4 at the FT line left elbow area. As #5 drives toward the left wing, #4 is screening for #2. FIRST, #2 will cut high off the screen while #4 reads this and cuts back door for the lay-up. You can select which player will get the shot first. For the purposes of this diagram, we will assume you have selected to make the back door pass for the lay-up. While all of this is happening, the next player in the line with the ball, #2, is moving up ready to start the next series.

Post Dribble Hand-Off Option #5 hustles off the court and gets to the end of the post line under the basket. #4 rebounds his own shot and gets behind #3 at the end of the line. The shooter, #4, must have the ball in line now to ensure someone else will get the dribble hand-off jump shot on the next series. #2 stays on the left wing. IMPORTANT - on the SECOND series, #2 would now fake high off the screen and cut back door for the lay-up, ensuring that he would get out of the drill and the screener who popped out would stay on the wing. #2 on the right wing now drives the ball up to the top, ready to enter the ball to the post and cut through to the low block...and the drill continues quickly.

Dribble Hand-Off Post Ball Screen Option #1 and #2 execute a dribble hand-off on the wing. #5 slides over from the opposite high post elbow area to set the ball screen for #2. #2 can drive to shoot and score, dump the ball off to #5 rolling to the basket, or pass back to #1 on the right wing. Players exchange lines on the wing and top while a new post player slides up to the elbow and we begin again.

Created with Basketball Playbook from www.jes-soft.com 6

PETE CARRIL´S PRINCETON

BACK DOOR OFFENSE

UNIVERSIDAD EUROPEA DE MADRID 13-14 NOVIEMBRE

DE 2006

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http://www.hoophall.com/halloffamers/Carril.htm

High School:

• Liberty High School (Bethlehem, PA) (1944-48)

High School Playing Highlights:

• All-State (1948)

College:

• Lafayette College (Easton, PA) (1948-52)

College Playing Highlights:

• Four-year letter winner • Earned All-State and Little All-America honors (1952)

High School Coaching:

• Reading (PA) High School (1959-1966)

Highschool Coaching Highlights:

• Reading record: 145-42

College Coaching:

• Lehigh University (Bethlehem, PA) (1966-67)

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• Princeton University (1967-97)

College Coaching Highlights:

• Overall college coaching record: 525-273 • Lehigh record: 11-12 • Princeton record: 514-261 • In 29 seasons at Princeton, his teams recorded only one losing season • Led Princeton to 13 Ivy League championships and 13 postseason

tournament bids (11 NCAA, two NIT) • Posted 10 seasons with 20 or more wins • Princeton teams led the nation in defensive points allowed 14 times • Coached 13 players that were drafted by the NBA or ABA • Ended his career as the only Division I coach to record 500 wins without ever

providing athletic scholarships • Earned his 500th victory following a 64-54 win over Cornell • His 525th win came in the first round of the 1996 NCAA Tournament over

defending champion UCLA, 43-41 • Led Princeton to the National Invitation Tournament championship over

Providence College, the Ivy League's only NIT championship (1975)

Pro Coaching:

• NBA Sacramento Kings, assistant coach (1997-present)

Pro Coaching Highlights:

• The 1998-99 Sacramento team posted its first winning season in 15 years

Bio:

Born: July 10, 1930 in Bethlehem, PA.

One of the most likable and dedicated coaches in basketball history, Pete Carril spent 43 years of his life committed to coaching excellence. After seven years at the high school level and one season as head coach at Lehigh University, Carril took over the basketball program at Princeton University in 1967. Upon his retirement at the end of last season, Carril was the only Division I coach to record 500 wins (525-273) without ever providing athletic scholarships. In his first season at Princeton, Carril posted a 20-6 record, the first of ten 20-win-or-more seasons.

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Featuring players that were often overmatched physically by opponents, Carril instilled a regimented, disciplined and fundamentally sound brand of basketball that made the Tigers a difficult opponent to play. Carril's Princeton teams won with textbook basics-an unselfish offense and team defense. A Bethlehem, PA, native, Carril's Tiger teams led the nation in scoring defense 14 of the past 21 seasons, including the last eight in a row. Over Carril's 29 seasons, Princeton won 514 games, recorded only one losing season, won 13 Ivy League Championships and earned 13 postseason tournament bids (11 NCAA, 2 NIT). In 1975, Carril led Princeton to the Ivy League's only NIT championship. Princeton's NCAA tournament appearances have been memorable, including a near-victory over then-number-one-ranked Georgetown in 1989 (50-49), and a thrilling last second victory over defending national champion UCLA (43-41) in 1996. Carril currently serves as an assistant coach with the NBA's Sacramento Kings.

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PETE CARRIL´S PRINCETON BACK DOOR OFFENSE “…offensive skills dictate what happens, but without skills the defense dictates” “ Players miss shots when they take bad shots, players miss shots when they don´t think they can make the shot” “…always trying to help someone out” “when closely guarded, go back door” “watch the person in front of you, they show you what to do”. “good spacing creates scoring opportunities”. “everybody with the ball is a point guard” “el que no tira bien siempre esta desmarcado nadie le defiende”

Pete Carril BASIC OFFENSE 1. CUTTING 2. SCREENING 3. PASSING 4. SHOOTING (ACCURATE) BASICS

• DRIBBLING • PASSING • SHOOTING

BACKDOORS SCREENING TECHNIQUES

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LOW POST PLAY.

PLAYS OFF THE SCREEN. 6 OPCIONS

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7

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GETTING INTO THE OFFENSE

OPTION A OPTION B

Low Post play

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OPTION A

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GOING CROSS COURT

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SWING THE BALL

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OPTION B

GETTING INTO A ONE GUARD FRONT

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GO BACK DOOR

SCREEN TOWARDS THE BALL

SCREEN AWAY FROM THE BALL

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SCREEN AWAY FROM THE BALL

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If the pass is denied to 4.

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If the pass is denied to 2 and 1 cannot scored

If the pass is denied to the post, swing it back up top; drive and pitch

Hit the center cutting Hit the corner if open Look to score first Throw it back to the passer

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SCREEN TOWARDS THE BALL

Option A Option B

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PTION A

O

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OPTION B

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CHIN SERIES

OPTION A OPTION B

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OPTION A

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OPTION B

UCLA

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HIGH POST OFFENSE • Using the high post spreads the defense. • Hard for some centers to defend up top. • Easier to reverse the ball. TURN OUT CUT

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TURN-OUT CUT IF ENTRY PASS IS DENIED

Option

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DRIBBLE ENTRY

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DRIBBLE ENTRY CENTER POPS OUT

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DRIBBLE ENTRY WITH DEFENSE

back door cut

HENEVER YOU CUT, LOOK FOR THE BALL

W

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FROM HIGH POST TO LOW POST

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FROM HIGH POST TO LOW POST DRIBBLE ENTRY

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and go on…

AGGING DEFENSE

S

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Documents

The Terrific Twenty Rules for the Princeton-Style Offensecoachmacsbasketballmembership.webstarts.com/uploads/Princeton... · The "Terrific Twenty" Rules for the Princeton-Style Offense