Passing Out of the Post Finding Open Teammates
Tags: basketball, coaching, skills, passing
Published: 2024-06-29 21:22:16

## Passing Out of the Post: Finding Open Teammates

In basketball, the post position is a pivotal spot for initiating offense. The ability to pass effectively out of the post can turn a strong interior presence into a dual threat, creating scoring opportunities both inside and out. In this article, we&#x27;ll delve into key techniques for making precise passes from the post, recognizing double teams, and setting up open shooters. Whether you&#x27;re a player looking to enhance your skills or a coach aiming to bolster your Teams offensive arsenal, understanding how to utilize the post effectively will elevate your game. 

### Recognizing Double Teams

A fundamental aspect of passing out of the post is recognizing when the defense sends a double team. Here are some key pointers:

- **Keep Your Head Up:** Always maintain a high basketball IQ by keeping your head up and scanning the court. This awareness will help you gauge when a double team is approaching.
- **Pivot and See:** Use your pivot foot to create space and vision angles. This will allow you to see the entire floor and spot open teammates.
- **Listen for Communication:** If you&#x27;re in a crowded arena, rely on your teammates to communicate defensive shifts. They might call out when a double team is coming.

### Techniques for Effective Passing

To execute a successful pass from the post, consider these advanced techniques:

- **Fake Pass:** Use a fake to draw the defense one way before making your actual pass. This can create just enough space for your teammate to get open.
- **Bounce Pass:** A well-timed bounce pass can be effective against aggressive defenders as it’s more difficult to intercept.
- **Overhead Pass:** When faced with taller defenders, an overhead pass can help you get the ball over their extended arms.

### Utilizing the Shot Clock

Understanding and utilizing the shot clock is crucial for making smart decisions:

| Shot Clock Time | Action                                                               |
|-----------------|---------------------------------------------------------------------|
| 24-14 seconds   | **Initiate play:** Take your time to read the defense and make a calculated decision. |
| 13-6 seconds    | **Create action:** Begin to make your move, either passing, dribbling, or shooting.   |
| 5-0 seconds     | **Urgency:** Execute a quick, decisive action to avoid a shot clock violation.       |

### Setting Up Open Shooters

To maximize scoring opportunities, consider these strategies:

- **Post to Perimeter:** Look for perimeter shooters when the defense collapses. Quick, sharp passes to the three-point line can create open looks.
- **Weak Side Action:** Encourage off-ball movement. Teammates cutting to the weak side can create easy passing lanes and open shots.
- **Kick-Out Drills:** Practice kick-out drills in training sessions where post players pivot and pass to shooters on the perimeter.

### Drills for Practice

Here are some drills to improve passing out of the post:

#### 1. **Four Corners Passing Drill**

_Setup_: Place four players in each corner of the paint, with one player in the post position.

**Instructions**:
1. The post player receives the ball and must pivot to see all four corners.
2. On the coach&#x27;s signal, a player from one of the corners moves to the three-point line.
3. The post player must quickly identify and pass to the moving player.

#### 2. **Double Team Recognition Drill**

_Setup_: Place a player in the post with defenders rotating to simulate a double-team.

**Instructions**:
1. Have the post player dribble with their back to the basket.
2. On the coach&#x27;s signal, two defenders close in on the post player.
3. The post player must fake a pass, pivot, and pass to an open teammate before getting trapped.

By mastering these techniques and incorporating these drills into your training, you can turn the post position into a strategic advantage, creating scoring opportunities for yourself and your teammates. Happy hooping!

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*For further reading*:
- [Basketball IQ: Understanding the Game](#) 
- [Effective Team Communication on the Court](#) 
- [Mastering the Art of the Bounce Pass](#) 
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