Double Team In Basketball

Last Updated on: 10th July 2023, 06:25 pm

In basketball, a double team is a defensive strategy where two defenders work together to guard a single offensive player. The goal of a double team is to force the offensive player to give up the ball or make a mistake, such as a turnover or a bad pass.

Double teams are often used against particularly skilled offensive players, such as a dominant scorer or a skilled ball-handler. By applying pressure from two directions, the defenders can make it difficult for the offensive player to find an open teammate or make a move to the basket.

Double teams can be executed in a variety of ways, depending on the defensive scheme and the specific situation. For example, one defender may pressure the ball while the other defender positions himself to cut off passing lanes or trap the offensive player against the sideline or baseline.

While double teams can be effective, they also carry some risks. If the offensive player is able to pass out of the double team, it can leave another player open for an easy shot or scoring opportunity. Additionally, if the double team is not executed properly, it can leave the defense vulnerable to a quick offensive attack.

Overall, double teams are a valuable tool in a defender’s arsenal, but they must be used judiciously and with careful planning to be effective.

How To Beat A Double Team In Basketball

Being double-teamed in basketball can be a challenging situation for any offensive player. However, there are several strategies that can be used to beat a double team and create scoring opportunities for yourself or your teammates.

1. Pass out of the double team: One of the most effective ways to beat a double team is to pass the ball to an open teammate. Look for a teammate who is cutting to the basket or who has moved to an open spot on the court. By passing out of the double team, you can create a scoring opportunity for your teammate while also relieving the pressure on yourself.
2. Dribble out of the double team: If you are a skilled ball-handler, you may be able to dribble your way out of a double team. Look for gaps in the defense and use quick, decisive moves to get past the defenders. Once you have beaten the double team, you can attack the basket or look for an open teammate.
3. Use a pick-and-roll: Another effective strategy for beating a double team is to use a pick-and-roll. Have a teammate set a screen for you, and then use the screen to create separation from the defenders. Once you have beaten the double team, you can attack the basket or pass to an open teammate.
4. Stay calm and patient: When facing a double team, it’s important to stay calm and patient. Don’t panic and try to force a shot or a pass. Instead, take your time and look for the best possible option. By staying calm and patient, you can make smart decisions and avoid turnovers.
5. Practice against double teams: Finally, one of the best ways to beat a double team is to practice against it. Work with your teammates to simulate double teams in practice, and practice different strategies for beating them. The more you practice, the more comfortable you will be when facing a double team in a game.

Basketball Double Team Drills

Basketball double team drills are an important part of any team’s defensive strategy. Here are some effective double team drills that can help your team improve its defensive skills:

1. Two-on-One Drill: This drill involves two defenders working together to guard one offensive player. The offensive player starts with the ball at the top of the key, and the defenders must work together to force a turnover or a bad shot. The offensive player can pass the ball to a teammate if they are able to get past the double team.
2. Trap and Rotate Drill: In this drill, the defenders start in a 2-3 zone defense. When the ball is passed to a specific area of the court, the defenders trap the offensive player and force a turnover. The other defenders must then rotate to cover the open players and prevent a scoring opportunity.
3. Closeout and Double Drill: This drill focuses on closing out on a shooter and then executing a double team. One defender starts by closing out on a shooter, while the other defender positions himself to trap the offensive player if they try to drive to the basket. The defenders must communicate effectively to execute the double team successfully.
4. 3-on-2 Drill: This drill involves three offensive players and two defenders. The defenders must work together to guard the three offensive players and force a turnover or a bad shot. The offensive players can pass the ball to each other to create scoring opportunities.
5. Full-Court Double Team Drill: This drill involves two defenders working together to trap the offensive player as soon as they cross half-court. The defenders must communicate effectively to execute the double team successfully and force a turnover.

These drills can be modified to fit the specific needs of your team and can be used to improve your team’s defensive skills and ability to execute double teams effectively.