Jim Les: 94-Foot Transition Game & Drills

with Jim Les,
Bradley University Head Coach

A crafty point guard as a player at Bradley, Coach Les has made transition a part of the Bradley foundation. Building a mindset of quick transition from defense to offense has been a major emphasis. Wings are responsible for sprinting to half court, getting out ahead of the defense as the point guard pushes the ball. The non-rebounding post player becomes the "rim runner" on the other end. Once in the half court, the trailing post has the option to ball screen, or screen away. On penetration, each player has specific reactions to execute. This system puts pressure on the defense by driving the ball to the baseline and gaps in the defense. With perimeter-heavy teams, Les teaches 1, 2 or 3 to push the ball down the floor. By eliminating the outlet pass to the point guard, all three perimeter players can quickly advance the ball. Les cites the wide double screen and quick ball screen as weapons when the offense flows to half court offense. This offensive attack provides for great spacing, post up opportunities, penetration and open shots. Les also presents teaching points for running after a made shot. The drills Les demonstrates focus on ball handling, running, spacing, rebounding and decision-making. Les presents a running game that is an offense in itself.

72 minutes. 2006.

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