In case you missed Part 1 (Offensive Schemes) and Part 2 (Pick & Rolls Names), make sure you read them after you them as complimentary material to the information below.
Post Actions
When it comes time to put in my post plays, I tag the term “Power” to the end of each play call. In my mind, Power signifies strength and dominance, which I what I hope to create in the post with such actions. Another term commonly used in the NBA that you may prefer is the word “Punch”. For example, “Floppy Punch” is an easy way to call out for your big(s) to duck-in after running your Floppy action. Below are a few of my favorite “Power” (Punch) actions and for the full list check them out in my play library here.
Flare & Backscreen Actions
The last pay calls I am going to discuss are flare screens and backscreen actions. I have grouped these together because they are similar in nature go somewhat hand-in-hand. I used to tag Flare & Backscreen actions with the same term, “Back”. However, after listening to Coach Stan Van Gundy’s lecture at the 2013 Coaching U Live it is time to make a change. He tags all of his Flare actions with the term, “Chest”. I love using Chest because it not only is it a clear term but is also a teaching moment. Chest, signifying putting the defender you are screening in the middle of your chest with the screen. This will also allow for more consistency with “Back” only meaning actions being back-screened to the rim.
I really hope you found this three-part series information and thought-provoking. If there are any topics you would like for me to right about in the future please do not hesitate to reach out to me.
Great Article Coach! But I still have one question. The verbal communication is one part of a play call. But what kind of signs do you use for mutual communication on the court? Looking forward to hear from you.
Greetings from Germany
Marcel that is a great question! I will write a Part 4 article soon to hit this topic. But in short, I create hand signals that coincide with the play call. For example, a head tap may be a middle pick & roll; Rubbing the chest could be a flare action; an arm flex could be a signal for a Flex action. I will go more in depth and break this down further.