Offense against zone defense.

Coaches Gordon Ridings (Columbia University) and Justin Barry (University of Southern California) in 1936, reports their tactic philosophy for the attack against zone defense.

Certain basic things should be adhered to when combating zones:

1. The strong side of the offense should be directed toward the weak side of the zone.

2. A fast break should be used to prevent the defense from getting set.

3. The offense should be aggressive and double up on men who get the ball off the boards.

4. No “hope” or wild shots should be taken. Hold on to the ball and take only easily made shots if the opponents are good shooters or, being extra tall, are dead on rebounds.

5. Offensive players should not try to force the ball but should move it quickly and deceptively until the defense cannot present a true zone face.

6. Spread up the zone by having all side men stay near the outside lines. If the defense fades, shoot from outside and draw them out.

7. Bounce and roll passes should be thrown whenever possible.

8. Offensive men should move the ball more than themselves but should cut sharp and fast when an opportunity present itself.

9. The “ball playing” tactics of zone men should be capitalized on by employing sneak cuts (particularly by offensive men 2 and 5).