How to Compare Basketball Systems

A basketball system depends on the team's skill level.

Each basketball coach has a style of play that he prefers. A system is a series of plays and philosophies on both offense and defense that the team will use in order to succeed.

Guards

A team that plays five guards at the same time will use a perimeter-oriented system. This system involves a lot of jump shots from the perimeter as well as a lot of drives to the basket. This system is especially effective against a zone defense because the zone struggles to guard all the outside shooters.

Forwards

Any team that has two to three forwards on the floor at the same time will be playing power basketball. This system is designed to send the ball to the forwards near the basket. The forwards on a basketball team will be the tallest, most physical players. The goal is to take high percentage shots and be able to rebound all misses for an easy put-back.

Center

Teams with a dominant center will spread out around the player and let him go to work near the basket. A system that relies on ball reversal and post-ups will be used to isolate the center under the basket. The best systems for big centers mandate that the player touches the ball at least one time on each possession. This ensures that high percentage shots are taken.

Resources

• X's and O's of Basketball: John Beilein's Michigan 5-out Offense