UNI

(Level – Intermediate/Advanced and up)

Summary

I picked up this play watching University of Northern Iowa when current Iowa State coach Greg McDermott used to coach there. This is by far one of my favorite plays out of a box set. It involves two ball screens, a back screen, and a screen the screener that opens up a 3-point shot.

Personnel

Player 1 should be an excellent ball handler with the ability to drive. Player 2 should be a good shooter. Player 3 should also be a good shooter. Players 4 & 5 should be your post players.

Instructions

1. Player 1 dribbles to the left wing and switches directions with the dribble. As soon as Player 1 comes to the wing, Player 4 should step out to the 3-point line to set the screen and Player 3 will pop out to the wing. Player 5 will follow almost instantly to set a second screen for Player 1 near the top of the key.

Timing is crucial here. You don't want Player 5 to come out too early or too late. It will take practice to get the timing down.

2. As Player 1 dribbles around the second screen set by Player 5, Player 2 sets a back screen for Player 4. After dribbling around the second screen,

Player 1 will have a split second where they can attack the hoop. He/she will want to utilize a hesitation dribble here. If nothing is open, it's very important not force it.

3. As soon as Player 4 clears the screen set by Player 2, Player 5 sets a down screen Player 2. Player 2 will flash to the top of the key for an open 3-point shot.

If Player 4 is open flashing across the lane, Player 1 will throw the pass. If that's not open, the second option is to pass the ball to Player 2 at

4. If neither one of the first two options are open, Player 5 may be open flashing to the ball after Player 2 has cleared the screen.

If defensive player guarding Player 3 cheats into the lane to help, Player 3 may be open for the skip pass.