How to Run a Basketball Triangle Offense

The triangle offense, which is also known as the triple-post offense, is one of the most effective offensive sets in the game of basketball. Popularized by coach Tex Winters, the triangle offense is difficult to master, yet it is relatively easy to learn. In a few steps, you can learn how to run a basketball triangle offense.

Instructions

    • 1

      Select five players to be on the court to run the offense. You will need a standard lineup composed of two guards, two forwards and a center. A good thing about the triangle offense is it doesn't require any one player be a great player. The offensive set promotes team play, so a team of average basketball players can run a very efficient offense by running the play properly.

    • 2

      Position the center in the low block with a forward on the same side of the court. On the other side of the court, position a guard at the top of the key and a forward at the high post. The other guard should be the primary ball handler to initiate the offense. This guard has the job of bringing the ball up the court, so it makes sense if this player is a point guard.

    • 3

      Instruct the ball handling guard to pass the ball to the forward who is on the same side of the court as the center. Once he passes it to the forward, that guard is to cut to the corner closest to the center. At that point, the forward is to pass it down low to the center.

    • 4

      Take what the defense gives you. If the center isn't double-teamed, he should try to score at the basket. If he is double-teamed, he should pass it to the open player. With all five players on the court in position to score the ball, the triangle offense will almost always produce an open shot if run properly.