The press in basketball is a high-pressure defensive strategy. It can be a bit of a gamble, particularly for teams that are not experienced with the press, but the press can be very effective at creating turnovers. The press is best when used against teams that handle the ball poorly or those without a skilled point guard. Part of its appeal is the ability to force ball handlers into unfamiliar situations and confuse them as to how to attack and break the press. It is wise to understand some general concepts that can give you ideas for breaking the press.
Cut Between Defenders and Ball Handlers
It is common for teams to need to pass the ball several times to safely advance the ball up court against a press. If a ball handler picks up his dribble deep in the backcourt, he will need teammates moving toward the ball to make a pass easier to complete. Off-ball offensive players should help their stranded teammate by moving their upper body directly between defenders and the ball handler, even coming right up to the ball handler for a hand-off rather than a pass.
Spread Out
The more space an offensive team can put between its players on the floor, the more challenging a press will be for the defense to maintain. Players should avoid bunching together to isolate defenders and minimize the risk of a trap developing. If the defense does attempt to trap the ball handler, another offensive player is likely left open for the pass and can make progress down the court.
Look for the Long Pass
A press is broken when the offensive team brings the ball across halfcourt, eliminating the risk of an eight- or 10-second violation caused by failing to bring the ball to the other side of the court. Additionally, some presses like the 2-2-1 press have only one player defending the far end of the court where an offensive team is trying to score. If defenders are not aware of the offensive players on the court, one can easily slip past four of the defenders, freeing herself up for a long pass that both breaks the press and gives the offense a one-on-one opportunity to score.
Call a Timeout
In risky situations, such as the ball handler getting caught in a trap or the time on the clock running down fast, it makes sense to call a timeout. This lets the offense pass from the sideline, rather than the baseline after a made shot, and it gives the coach time to draw up an effective play. Calling a timeout is much preferred over giving up a turnover that could lead to a made basket.
