Down Screen Handoff Turn

When to use it

Half-court, against man-to-man, from a 4-out-1-in alignment, when you want a handoff for a guard turning the corner. Fits a team with a guard who can attack off a handoff and a big who can stand near the elbow.

Personnel

1 and 3 handle the early ball reversal. 5 is the big near the elbow who hands the ball off or receives. 2 and 4 start on the perimeter and 2 sets a down screen. The guard who gets the handoff turns the corner toward the rim.

Reads

1. First read. The ball is reversed, and down-screen action brings a guard to the elbow.
2. Second read. The handoff from 5 to the guard. He turns the corner and attacks.
3. Third read. The guard reads the on-ball defender and 5's defender. If 5's defender steps up, drive; if he drops, take the shot or pass to 5.

Counter

If the handoff is denied, keep the ball moving and run the down screen again to bring the guard back to the elbow.

Teaching cues

• 1: pass and cut, setting up the reversal.
• 5: show your hands near the elbow and give a clear handoff.
• 2: set the down screen firm and low.
• The guard: take the ball and turn the corner tight.
• 4: stay spaced so help does not come to the drive.