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April 2010

In the Pass & Cut Layer, a rule is established that never changes throughout the offense: If you pass one spot away, you must basket cut. There are many reasons for this rule, but I want to focus on the Rear Cut. Most teams teach their defenders to jump to the ball when a pass is made. Depending on a coach’s defensive philosophy, this is done for one of two reasons.
  • To establish denial position and prevent the return pass.
  • To get in a better helping position closer to the ball (gap defense).
The Rear Cut is the best response for this defensive habit.