Basketball · Team offence & sets · Cutting & off-ball movement

4-out 1-in motion offence

Four players on the perimeter and one post: pass, cut, refill the spot and feed the post when open.

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Start / 6
Time
20 min
Players
5–10
Age
U13+
Area
Half court
Equipment
1 basketballs5 bibs

Setup

  1. Four spots on the perimeter: two slots and two wings, with a post player on the block.
  2. Start 5v0, then add five defenders.

How it runs

  1. Pass and basket cut; if the cutter isn't open, they clear to the far side.
  2. The other three fill the open spots so the four spots stay full.
  3. The post moves to the ball-side block and posts up when the ball is on the wing.
  4. Play live; score one point for a lay-up off a cut or a post catch.

Coaching points

  • Spacing: keep 4–5 metres between perimeter players.
  • Every pass is followed by a cut, a screen or a refill.
  • Post: seal the defender and show a target hand; stay out of the key for 3 seconds.
  • Cutters who aren't open clear out fast so the next action can happen.

Common mistakes

  • Two players filling the same spot.
  • The post camping in the key and getting called for 3 seconds.

Say it: “Pass, cut, fill.”

Make it harder

  • No dribbling except to drive to the basket.
  • Defence can switch every action.

Make it easier

  • 5v0 with the coach calling 'cut' and 'fill'.
  • Defenders guard only the post and the ball.

Pairs well with

Reviewed by the Sportdify coaching team.