How to Beat a 1-1-3 Zone Defense

Basketball is a game of speed and athleticism, but it is also a game of strategy, which is the job of the coaching staff: to relay offensive and defensive ideas to the point guard. One play in particular that is popular among coaches at all levels is the 1-1-3 zone defense, designed to pressure the opposing ball carrier into a turnover during transition play. It's a tough setup to beat, but there is a way.

Instructions

    • 1

      Note the position of the players on the opposing team as they set up the 1-1-3 defensive zone. Each player is responsible for a small area or zone, and their job is to halt the ball's advance to the goal. The point guard takes the ball carrier and is backed by the shooting guard, who's ready to intercept a pass. The center and forwards line up in front of the basket to inhibit drives to the basket. They can also converge on the ball carrier quickly to prevent plays.

    • 2

      Position the best shooter on your team into one of the corners. As your team makes the transition to offense, don't make long passes; it's too convenient for the opposing guards to intercept the pass. Once the shooter's in position, the defense --- the shooting guard and one of the forwards --- will collapse on his/her position.

    • 3

      Have the shooter pass the ball overhead to your team's point guard. Do this a few times, but of course keep in mind the dwindling shot clock. The objective is to draw the defense to one side through a series of passes, which should be overhead and never a bounce pass, which is easier to pick off when there's room at the top of the arc. Overhead passes also can goad the defensive player into jumping up and out for the ball, which will draw them out of position. If this happens, go for an easy jumper from 1 foot or 2 feet inside the 3-point line.

    • 4

      Draw the opposing team to one side of the court. There are two options once the defense exposes itself: shoot from the corner opposite your best shooter or make a quick pass to your power forward in the paint, underneath the basket, to go for an easy layup.