[2.1] Basketball Fundamentals

• offense


  seeks to score points by shooting the ball through the basket before the shot clock expires
• defense


  usually employ one of two basic strategies: man-to-man defense or zone defense
• zone defenses


  broken down by their alignments, which are normally labeled by numbers
• 2-3 Zone


  This is the most common zone layout. Two players stand high at the free-throw line, while the remaining three defenders guard the baseline. This zone defense is great for defending baseline and corner attacks, as well as securing rebounds.
• 3-2 Zone


  This alignment places three defenders in line at the free throw line and allows for more pressure from the wings, making for a more difficult long-range shot.
• 1-3-1 Zone


  Consists of one player above the free throw line, three players staggered across the paint and one player guarding the baseline underneath the hoop. This is a good defense for guarding head-on attacks at the top of the circle and for forcing offenses into corners for potential traps and turnovers.
• 2-1-2 Zone


  Two players guard the free throw line, while one player is placed in the lane and the final two defenders are placed at the baseline. This layout is a good defense against baseline attacks and offenses working into the paint.
• 1-2-2 Zone


  Also called the “jug” defense, one player guards above the foul line while two players guard the wings. The final two defenders are responsible for the baseline.
• Match-Up Zone


  This zone defense scheme is essentially a reaction to the offense’s attack. Also known as “amoeba defense,” match-up zone is usually run out of either a 2-3 or 1-3-1 starting alignment and then adjusts to the offense’s layout. This strategy is great for giving offenses a true match and for forcing corner traps and turnovers. Be cautious, however, as match-ups can be beaten by offenses prone to cutting routes and schemes.
• free-throw


  An unguarded shot from the free throw line was awarded after certain fouls.
• field goal


  A shot that passes over and through the basket from within the three-point line. This is the most common type of scoring.
• three-pointer


  A shot from beyond the three-point line that passes over and through the basket.
• center


  Usually the tallest player. The position demands a lot of physical contact. On offense, he receives the ball and shoots close to the basket. Serves as the last line of defense, blocking opponents’ shots and rebounding their misses.
• power forward


  Tall player who relies on strength and toughness to control activity in the lane. Frequently rebounds, especially on defense. Has a decent shot from short range and scores many points by rebounding missed shots and quickly shooting them.
• small forward


  Versatile and very athletic player. Aggressively attacks the defense by driving and cutting toward the basket, but also has a consistent outside shot.
• shooting guard


  A tenacious defender with an aptitude for stealing the ball. On offense, serves as the secondary ball handler and sharpshooter. Has the ability to convert shots from three-point range.
• point guard


  Leader of the offense who uses superb passing and dribbling skills to set up teammates for open shots. Has a reliable jump shot and the ability to break down a defense by driving into the lane.