Do you want to increase your points per game (PPG) or pace of play out of transition? There are a few effective strategies to consider. One of the most effective and easiest to implement is learning how to score in transition. In the next three play diagrams, we’ll delve into these essential strategies.

3 Transition Offensive Sets

5-Out “Stagger Flare”

This 5-out formation is standard out of transition due to the guards running their lanes and the bigs trailing. While keeping space, 4 & 5 set stagger screens for the shooter. On the catch, 5 sets a fare for 4 and or slip depending on what the defense gives you.

Push the Ball Quickly: As soon as you secure a rebound or a steal, push the ball up the court as quickly as possible. Use quick outlet passes to start the transition.

Fill the Lanes: Players should run hard to fill the lanes, typically with one player running the middle (rim running) and others running the wings. This spacing stretches the defense and creates opportunities for fast-break points.

Phoenix Mercury “Double Drag”

This is a great secondary offense because the bigs have rim run and are deep in the paint. By having your guards run their lanes and keeping the floor spread out, the center (5) can set a down screen for the power forward (4), both flashing to the top of the key area. The ball handler will use the double-drag screen from 4 and 5 to create space. After setting the screen, 5 will roll to the basket while 4 will pop out for a potential three-point attempt.

Utilize the Secondary Break: If the initial fast break is stopped, quickly transition into a secondary break or early offense. This keeps the defense on their heels and maintains the offensive pressure.

Advance with the Dribble or Pass: Depending on the situation, advance the ball with the dribble or a quick pass. Passing is often faster than dribbling and can catch the defense off guard.

Early Offense “Triple Gap”

Early offense is another form or term for transition and secondary break. In this 4, Out, 1 In formation you can have the 4 trail the play for a dribble handoff with 1. 4 can attack the rim or can kick out to the shooting guard or dump low to the big.

• Attack the Rim: Be aggressive in attacking the rim. This puts pressure on the defense and often leads to easy layups or fouls.
• Shooters: If the defense collapses to protect the rim, look for an open shooter on the perimeter. Quick ball movement can create open shots from beyond the arc.