I keep getting the questions! Why can’t we just designate who is UP and who is BACK or specific players on the Run and Jump Press? The ANSWER IS – YOU CAN. However, you now open yourself to a different set of issues and situations. Teams that like to run it up will find quick holes while you are trying to move your players into position. However, you now OWN the Run and Jump Press so adapt any way you wish. As coaches, we do that all the time!
LET ME AGAIN EXPLAIN THE FORMATION CONCEPT!
- 1-2-2 (on the ball pressure)
- 2-1-2 (controls middle better)
- 2-2-1 (protects basket better)
Running to spots gets us organized quickly and SLOWS opponents down initially. They see ZONE! We now have ALL the holes covered and rotation angles are aligned. HOWEVER– this is a person to person press so we don’t just SIT in these zone spots. We would like ball pressure while ALWAYS making sure the back end is covered. We want to identify where your person is and shift accordingly. THEN– Let the running and jumping and trapping and tipping begin. Let the stress and chaos and fun happen.
Think of it this way. What is easier and more effective for the players organization? ROTATE to a spot or sprint to a player. YOUR CALL! Also, I am a huge advocate of PRESSING OFF MISSES so designating UP and BACK or a player somewhat eliminates that action.
What about the SLOW post player? Having them ALWAYS run back and then run up for offense and run back on the press is a killer. WHY NOT put them ON THE BALL and slowly slide them out the backside as the press is in action. It is very effective. HOPE THIS ANSWERS SOME QUESTIONS COACHES!
COACH EDDIE ANDRIST 