As a convert to the Read and React system I can tell you how different it is to watch basketball on television, and of everything that stands out to me spacing rises above all as the concept that is easiest to identify and dangerous for teams to screw up.
Over the course of the weekend the shining example of excellent spacing was the Florida Gators. I didn't get to see their opening round game, but the game against Pittsburgh was a clinic of using simple (but powerful) concepts and good spacing to attack on offense.
Florida repeatedly used a high wide screen (attacking the middle of the floor) to put help defenders in a bind. This isn't a new concept of course, but doing it correctly requires discipline from the other players on the floor to maintain proper spacing. The spacing affects how quickly defenders can help and recover, how far a pass has to travel, and perhaps most importantly the angle of those passes.
Take a look at this play here. Two really great spacing and passing angle examples.
Sure, it's an exciting shot, a highlight reel three. But notice the two flanking players on the wing, If Wilbekin gets locked up by a defender there are clear passing lanes to two open teammates. Beauty is in the details, and right now the Gators are looking quite attractive to win another National Championship.
As coaches, we are always tasked with the application of these concepts. Lucky coaches will have a player (maybe more) who innately understand spacing and are frequently "in the right spot." What then, do we do about the other players? Spacing has to be a constant discussion for an offensive game plan. Are you going to flood one side of the floor, or maintain balanced spacing? How many post players are you going to use, and will you use spacing to create driving lanes or isolations on post entries? Even if you use set plays, your spacing is critical. After all, maybe that pass was intercepted not because it was a bad decision, but because the receiving teammate had drifted to far away from the ball handler. Understanding spacing allows you to see the game - on both sides of the ball - in a completely different way.
This weekend I'll be pulling for Michigan and Michigan State, teams who have coaches that I like and respect over most others. They are also teams will excellent spacing and ball movement, who are a lot of fun to watch. This weekend I'll be focusing on shot selection, and hopefully have a post written up next week. Thanks for reading.
