Underrated Basketball Plays That Players and Coaches Should Know to Win Games 

The Story of Learning the Right Plays 

As a young basketball player, I thought the game was all about scoring. I wanted to be the player taking the big shots and getting all the highlights. But as I grew and learned more about the game, I realized that understanding the right plays and executing them properly could make a huge difference in my playing time and my team’s success. One day, my coach pulled me aside and explained how knowing certain plays could turn me into a smarter, more valuable player. I started studying and practicing these plays, and before I knew it, I was making a bigger impact on the court, not just as a scorer, but as a true team player.  

Essential Plays Every Player and Coach Should Know 

Offensive Plays That Create Opportunities 

1. Pick and Roll – A fundamental two-man play where a player sets a screen and rolls to the basket for a high-percentage shot. 

1. Give and Go – A simple but effective play where a player passes, cuts, and gets the ball back for an easy layup. 

1. Motion Offense – Constant movement, screens, and passing to create open shots without set plays. 

1. Fast Break Offense – Pushing the ball in transition before the defense sets up, leading to quick points. 

1. Triangle Offense – A structured offensive system focusing on spacing, passing, and reading the defense. 

1. Flex Offense – Uses baseline screens and cuts to create open layups and mid-range shots. 

1. High-Low Post Play – A great strategy for teams with strong big men, feeding the ball inside from the high post. 

1. Iso Play (Isolation) – Clears out space for a skilled player to attack one-on-one. 

1. Dribble Hand-Off (DHO) – A ball-handler hands the ball to a teammate while screening the defender, creating driving lanes. 

1. Baseline Out-of-Bounds (BLOB) Play – Designed to get quick scores from inbounds passes under the opponent’s basket. 

Defensive Strategies That Shut Down Opponents 

1. Man-to-Man Defense – Each defender is responsible for one player, focusing on individual matchups. 

1. 2-3 Zone Defense – A defensive setup that protects the paint and forces outside shots. 

1. Full-Court Press – Applying defensive pressure all over the court to create turnovers. 

1. Trap Defense – Two defenders aggressively trap the ball-handler, forcing bad passes or turnovers. 

1. Box-and-One Defense – A hybrid defense where four players play zone, and one locks onto the opposing star. 

1. Switching on Screens – Helps prevent mismatches and forces opponents into tough shots. 

1. Help Defense & Rotations – Prevents easy drives and forces teams into tough contested shots. 

1. Closeouts on Shooters – Rushing to contest a jump shot without fouling. 

1. Rebounding Positioning (Box Out) – Keeping opponents away from offensive rebounds. 

1. Defensive Communication – Talking on defense prevents breakdowns and missed assignments. 

Game-Winning Situational Plays 

1. Buzzer-Beater Play – A quick inbound or half-court play to get a last-second shot. 

1. End-of-Game Foul Strategy – Knowing when to foul to extend the game or avoid giving up a three-pointer. 

1. Corner Three Play – A designed play to get an open shooter in the corner for a clutch three-pointer. 

1. Delay Game Offense – A strategy to hold the ball and run down the clock while protecting a lead. 

1. Overtime Game Plan – Ensuring players stay composed, execute plays, and manage fouls in crunch time. 

Why These Plays Matter 

Basketball is more than just shooting and scoring—it’s about playing smart. Many players overlook the importance of team execution, but coaches recognize those who understand the game at a higher level. By mastering these underrated plays, players can boost their basketball IQ and become assets to their team. Whether it’s setting the right screen, making a backdoor cut, or playing tough defense, these small details can be game-changers. 

Common Mistakes Players Make When Running Plays 

• Not Communicating on Defense – Calling out screens, switches, and defensive assignments is crucial. 

• Poor Spacing – Standing too close to teammates clogs the offense and limits passing lanes. 

• Forgetting to Set Solid Screens – A weak screen won’t create space for a good shot. 

• Rushing the Play – Good execution requires patience and reading the defense. 

• Ignoring the Weak Side – A strong-side-heavy offense makes it easy for the defense to predict movement. 

Drills to Master These Plays 

• Pick-and-Roll Drills – Practice different angles and finishes off the roll. 

• 3-on-3 Motion Offense – Helps players read defenses and move without the ball. 

• Fast Break Simulations – Work on pushing the ball with controlled aggression. 

• Defensive Shell Drill – Teaches rotations and help defense positioning. 

• Scrimmage with Situational Plays – Coaches should call specific plays and analyze execution. 

FAQ: Underrated Basketball Plays 

Q: What’s the easiest play for beginners to learn? A: The Give and Go is one of the simplest yet most effective plays. It teaches passing, movement, and finishing at the basket. 

Q: Why do some teams struggle with pick and roll? A: Many teams fail to properly set strong screens or make the right read based on the defense’s reaction. 

Q: How can a player get better at off-ball movement? A: Constantly staying active, reading defenders, and using screens effectively will improve off-ball movement skills. 

Conclusion 

Winning basketball games isn’t just about talent—it’s about execution. Knowing and mastering these underrated plays can make any player stand out and help their team succeed. Coaches love players who understand the game, make the right decisions, and execute plays effectively. 

If you want to take your game to the next level, start practicing these plays today! And for more in-depth training, check out BasketballFundamentals.com for free video tutorials and expert insights!