How to Beat a 2-3 Zone in Youth Basketball

While most youth programs primarily utilize man-to-man defenses, a team can really get tripped up if they are not ready for the occasional zone defense. Every team should have a basic plan on attacking zone defenses. This article provides some guidelines for beating the 2-3 defense.

Things You'll Need

  • Basketball team
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Instructions

    • 1

      Set up in a 1-3-1 offense. Point guard at the top, 2 wings that are free throw line extended, most athletic scorer at the free throw line and post player on either block.

    • 2

      "Down the middle solves the riddle." The best way to break down a 2-3 defense is an entry pass to the player at the free throw line. This will force the defense to converge on that player, which opens up opportunities for teammates. Especially in youth basketball, the catch at the free throw line will draw the attention of both defensive guards and probably the defensive center. Teammates should find an open spot to receive a pass. If the defense does not effectively converge on the catch at the free throw line, that player should take the open shot or look to drive or drive/pass.

    • 3

      Look to the low post. The player on the low post should be active and look for seams or gaps in the defense. Because the defensive players are responsible for areas rather than players, some open spots can be found. If an entry pass is made into the low post, chances are several young players will converge-the low post can look to kick it out to an open player for an easy shot.

    • 4

      Move the ball quickly and change sides of the court. Opportunities will present themselves when the offense passes the ball quickly around the zone. This forces the defense to shift frequently, which will lead to openings in youth basketball. Be sure to look at the high post and low post while swinging the ball from side to side.

    • 5

      Be ready to catch and shoot. All players should be in position to quickly catch a pass and get a good shot off. This is done by getting your body squared to the basket upon receiving a pass.

    • 6

      Attack the offensive rebounds. Because the defensive is responsible for an area of the court instead of a specific player, this can open up opportunities to grab offensive rebounds. This is especially effective if more than one offensive player is in an area-the defensive player cannot box out two players at once and it will necessitate the defense shifting to help out-this concept is very difficult for youth teams to handle.