By effectively using ball screens, you can exploit gaps in the 2-3 zone defense, create open shots, and generate offensive opportunities. There are keys to running a successful ball screen offense. Position your shooters in optimal locations such as corners and kick-out situations. Encourage the bottom forwards to create 2v1 scenarios as frequently as possible. Utilize the “triangle” by having players position themselves between two defenders, forming a triangle to avoid single-player coverage. Additionally, involve the top guards actively in the play.
Types of Ball Screens vs 2-3 Zone Defense
When creating or looking for 2-3 zone sets, make sure you utilize these types of ball screens and movements.
Screen the Top Defenders: Set screens on the top two defenders in the zone to create space for your ball handler. This can force the defenders to switch or help, opening up passing lanes.
Wing Ball Screens: Use ball screens on the wings to disrupt the zone’s formation. This can help to collapse the defense, allowing for easier penetration or open perimeter shots.
High Ball Screens: Set screens near the top of the key to draw the center defender out of position. This can create opportunities for driving to the basket or kicking out to open shooters.
Double Screens: Use double ball screens to overload one side of the zone, creating confusion and mismatches.
Slip Screens: Occasionally, have your screener slip to the basket instead of setting a solid screen. This can catch the defense off guard and lead to easy scoring opportunities.
Ball Reversal: After the initial ball screen, quickly reverse the ball to the other side of the court. This can shift the zone and create open looks. Use quick swings, “dribble ats”, and shallow cuts.
Take a look at a few plays that we picked from our play database that incorporate the details discussed.
Power Ball Screen vs 2-3 Zone Defense
Ball rotation will typically be the initial start of every offense. This starts with a pass and pass back that leads to a top-of-the-key ball screen from the 4. 5 will replace where the 4 came from and 4 will slip to create space for 1. This set will get you into the middle of a zone which often will bust a zone defense. You have many options if you can get paint touches inside the paint, hence the name, Power.
Zone Dribble At Ball Screen vs 2-3 Zone Defense
Other than a pass, a dribble at is a great way to shift the defense. After shifting the zone to one side, on the pass back there is a weak side ball screen from 5 on x2 for the middle guard. Again, this will cause one defense to guard multiple offensive players and will get you into the middle of the zone.
Overload with Ball Screen vs 2-3 Zone
This play begins with a dribble toward the wing, followed by a pass to shift the defense. Player 3 wraps underneath to create an overload. After Player 4 sets the on-ball screen, they flash back toward the ball. Player 2 then reads the defense and selects the best open option.
Looking For More Zone Content?
Check out our “Find A Play” database and filter to Zone Offense, or you can view our “Find a PlayBook” section and search by entire pre-drawn playbooks.
