UConn's Ball Screen To Stagger Action Nets Open 3

By Jeff Huber

UConn's Danny Hurley runs some of the best sets in college basketball. The level of deception and precision is amazing.

Last night, Hurley called timeout to set up a play at the end of the first half. It resulted in an open 3 for Big East Newcomer of the Year, Cam Spencer.

The play starts with Spencer (#12/1) handling the ball up top. Spencer enters to Hassan Diarra (#10/2) who received a down screen. Spencer runs through to the ball side corner.

play diagram 1

Forward Alex Karaban (#11/4) comes from the opposite wing to screen to Diarra. Karaban rolls as Spencer lifts behind the screen.

This ball screen and lift is crucial as it's the false action that precedes the stagger screen. Karaban's roll puts him in position to set the first stagger screen.

As for the lift, you see the San Diego State defender come up to try to deny the pass to Spencer.

play diagram 2

This allows him to use the defender's momentum against him when he starts his baseline cut.

Diarra dribbles to the top as Spencer sprints the baseline and comes off screens from Karaban and Spencer Johnson (#35/5).

play diagram 3

It's important to note that the two screeners were UConn's front court players.

This made it harder for SDSU to switch.

Had they switched, Diarra could have made looked for the screeners on a slip or seal.

Also by running the play left to right, Spencer was able to turn to the right as he squared himself. That is an easier shot for a right-handed shooter.

A great set from a great coach!



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