July 2014 Simplified Information for Youth Basketball Coaches #051-A

Assist:
The assist can be described as a pass that is made to another player that leads to the
scoring of a basket (player must score a basket off the assist). All players are credited
with assists, but it is normally important to a “point guards” game performance. Point
guards are usually the players that are “judged” by how many assists they have per
game (since they are the playmakers).

Backboard:
Backboard
The board that the basket is attached to, and
usually made out of fiberglass. All backboards
The
have a “square” marked on them (directly behind “Square”
the base of the rim).

Backcourt (Backcourt violation):

Once the Offensive team has passed the half court a)
X
line, they cannot: a) dribble and/or b) pass back over X
Back
X court
the half court line. If this occurs, a “Backcourt”
area!
violation will be called by the referee and X
b)
possession of the ball will go to the other team. X

Offense is going in this direction.

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Backcourt (Guards):
A reference given to positions on the court. Ex: The Backcourt has not scored many
points (meaning the “guards” have not scored many points. See Appendix.

Ball Handler:
In a game situation the “ball handler” is usually the player (Or
players) that can dribble the ball extremely well. The Point guard is
Player is
usually the best “ball handler” on the team. Good ball handlers “looking
up” while
can dribble the basketball without having to look at the ball, they dribbling!

can see what’s happening on the court (they can see the floor).

Baseline:
The baseline is basically the end lines of the
Baseline
basketball court. The area where the ball is
in-bounded (passed in) the majority of the
time. The baseline areas can be referenced
Baseline Areas
as inbounds or out of bounds.

Basket (The Hoop):

A round (usually metal) rim that is attached to the backboard.
A net is attached to the rim and is usually made of nylon
(usually metal chain for outdoors). The other meaning for Rim
“Basket” is when a shot is made or missed (“The basket was
good” or “the player missed the basket (shot).” Net

Basketball:
Basketballs come in different sizes, styles, and
textures. Youth size basketballs are usually labeled
“junior.” The size of a Women’s basketball is 28.5”
Youth Women’s Men’s
and Men’s Basketballs are 29.5” in diameter. Size - Jr Size 28.5 Size 29.5

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Block Area:
The area that is marked by the large rectangular Block on
the outside of the “paint” area. Used as a reference point
for plays and post players to position themselves on
offense (or defense). You will hear the phrase: Post the
defender up on the block, etc.
Block Areas

Blocking a Shot:
A “Blocked Shot” occurs when a defensive player touches the ball (or partially deflects
the ball) when the offensive player is shooting the ball. The ball must be blocked as it is
going in an upward angle, if the ball is blocked as the ball is going in a downward angle,
this is a violation called “goal tending.” The basket will be counted whenever “goal
tending” is called by the referee.

Blocking Foul:
A “Blocking Foul” occurs when a defender uses their body and makes contact with an
offensive player with the ball.

Boxing Out:
Boxing out is when a player (offensive or Turn and
“Seal” off the
defensive) gets position and prevents their player you are Find your
guarding! player, Box
out, hold for
opponent from getting a rebound. Boxing out
X4 X5
1 second,
then go for
is very simple to learn, but one of the hardest the rebound

skills for players to master and remember to

X2 X3
X1
do in the game. Boxing out requires
aggressiveness, and toughness in a player.

Center (Post Player position):

Refers to the post player that is the tallest / largest on the team that plays in the middle
on defense and the post area on offense. In youth basketball (the very young age
groups) it is common for coaches to use a small “tough” player (in a 5-guard set) instead
of a taller less “aggressive” player. Usually called the “Center” and/or numbered the “5.”

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Center Court Circle (half court circle):
The “circle” located at the middle of center court. This
is the area where the “jump ball” takes place at the
beginning of a game. Center Court Circle

Charging Foul (Charge):

A “Charging Foul” occurs when an offensive player runs into (or over) a defensive player
who already has position (the defender must first establish position).

Clear Out (“Clearing the Ball”):

Clear out has several meanings in basketball: The act of an a) defensive rebounder
passing the ball to a teammate that is in the wing area (outlet pass), and / or b) an
offensive rebounder passing the ball to a teammate in the wing to reset a play, etc.
c) An offensive play designed to “open up” the paint area (clearing out the defense) so
that a teammate can attempt an easy drive to the basket. This type of play has a familiar
name of “Four Corners,” and works fairly well vs. man to man defenses.

(Clearing out a Rebound) (Clearing out the Defense)

X X a) 2 3
X X
2
X
1 X X
5 4 5
X 4 X
X
b) c)
3 1

Corners:
The areas where the baseline and sideline meet and
also where the half court lines meet the side lines.
The corners are the “best” places for a pressing
Corners Corners
defense to trap. But, the corners are the worse
place for ball handlers to dribble into.

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Court: (court size)
A typical high school size court can be as large as 84 x 50 feet, but many high school and
middle school courts are much smaller. The courts usually have “hard wood” floors, but
a newer “hardened rubber” floor is also common (a cheaper solution for some).
84 feet

50 The Optimum length of a

feet high school court is 84
feet long by 50 feet wide!

Crossover Dribble:
A ball handling move that occurs when the ball handler switches their dribble from one
hand to the other. The crossover should occur low and quick (some crossovers are wide
and deceptive). The ball handler basically dribbles under the defenders hand (if the
defender is close) and / or dribbles to change direction.

Cutter:
An offensive move where a player “cuts” to the basket, to the 4 5

ball, or in front of a defender, to get open or deceive a defense.

In the diagram: 1 cutting low to the basket, 2 cutting across to 3
2
opposite elbow, 3 cutting low to the block, 4 cutting across the
1
baseline, and 5 cutting high. Used in Zone and Motion Offenses.

Dead Ball:
A dead ball occurs when there is a stoppage in the game and can be any of the following:
Referee blows the whistle (play is stopped, ball is dead), the ball has gone “out of
bounds,” a jump ball (tie up call), etc. The game clock stops on all dead balls.

Defense:
Defense is basically the team without possession of the ball that is trying to keep the
other team from scoring a basket. All players should be able to play defense! When
players are intense and aggressive on defense it creates problems for an offense.

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Delaying the Game:
A scheme used by a team that is winning a game that helps them keep possession of the
ball, while eluding their opponent. Delaying the Game is usually used towards the end of
a game when a team try’s to take as much time off the clock as possible. The only way a
defense can get the ball back is: a) Play tight man to man defense to try to cause a 5-
second call and / or a turn-over or b) Foul the player with the ball.

Double Dribble:
A dribbling violation occurs when a player stops dribbling and then attempts to dribble
again and if a player attempts to dribble with 2 hands.

Double Teaming:
X1
Double teaming is a defensive tactic that consists of two X2

defenders guarding the same player. Coaches use this a lot

under the basket to keep a very good (or very big) player
X2 / X1 are Double-Teaming the
Offensive player in the post
from scoring easy baskets.

Dribbling:
The act of intentionally “striking or pushing” the basketball with the hand. Dribbling is a
skill that players use in a basketball game to get around a defender, drive to the basket,
get the ball up the court, get control of the ball, etc… Dribbling is a very important skill
for players to learn, and one of the most difficult skills to master using either hand.

Dribbling Aids:
Any form of equipment that assists players with increasing
their skill level while dribbling a basketball. A common type
of dribbling aid are “dribbling glasses” (Also called “Blinders”).

Driving to the Basket (Penetrating the Lane):

X X X
An offensive move that a player with the ball uses to advance the
ball to the basket. This move should be quick and is very X
X
effective when executed properly. Players that can drive to the B
basket effectively, add another dimension to an offense.

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Dunking:
A shot used mainly at the High School, College, and NBA levels. Dunking occurs when a
player “slams” the ball in the basket with one or two hands.

Fake:
A “deceptive” move to “trick” a defender. There are different types of “fakes.” The
“pass fake” is very effective and can throw off many defenders if executed correctly.
The “shot fake” is a “one on one” move that is just as effective if done correctly. There
are also “ball handling” fakes (cross-overs, behind the back dribbling, etc) but these are
not usually referred to as “ball handling fakes” just “good moves”.

Fast break (Transition Offense):

The “fast break” starts when a defender rebounds a missed shot by the offense and
“outlets” the pass to a teammate waiting in the wing area. The fast break ends when the
ball gets to the opposite basket quickly (before the other team gets there).

X X
1
4

5 X
X 2

3
X

Field Goal:
Field Goal is the same as “shot, or basket,” (the proper basketball lingo for taking a shot,
making a shot, etc.) Ex: The player took 3 shots / the player took 3 field goals.

Flagrant Foul:
A foul that is made with “extreme” contact (violent in nature), and appears to be in an
“intentional” manner to hurt or injure a player (bumping, elbowing, kicking, etc). Ex: An
offensive player is in the air (attempting a lay-up) and a defender pulls the players’ shirt
(putting the offensive player in harms way).

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Forward: (Post Players)
Usually the player or players on a team that play under the basket (post players) and
usually the taller/larger players on the court. Usually called “Forwards” and/or numbered
the “3” or “4.”

Fouls:
The act of making “illegal” physical contact with a player while the ball is in play. Fouls
can occur from a defender bumping into a player dribbling the ball, reaching in and/or
slapping the offensive player dribbling the ball, moving their body (bumping) into an
offensive player, bumping or hitting a player taking a shot, elbowing a player. A player
cannot elbow, grab / hold, punch, push, scratch at, or trip a player on the other team.
Offensive fouls can occur when the player dribbling the ball runs into a defender who has
established position. Technical fouls can be called on players or coaches who are using
unsportsmanlike conduct, too many players on the court, etc.

Free Throw Line (Foul Line):

When a foul is called the player may get to take Penalty shots.
These shots are taken from the free throw line. The free
Free
throw line is 15 feet from the line to the middle of the rim. Throw
Line

Free Throw (Foul Shot):

A “free” shot taken from the free throw line after a foul has been committed. This type of
shot cannot be challenged by the defense (that is where the “free” comes in). If a player
is fouled while attempting to shoot and misses the shot, this player will get to attempt 2
free throws (3 free throws if the player was attempting a 3-point shot). If the player
makes the attempted shot and gets fouled; the player will get 1 free throw. The offense
and defense alternately line up to retrieve the rebound on a missed attempt from the free
throw line. Starting with the defensive player in the position closest to the basket.

Free Throw line Extended:

An (imaginary) line that extends out from the Free Throw
line to either Sideline. This line is used as a reference
for player positions on the court.
Free Throw Line Extended

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Freezing the Defense:
The act of a player dribbling straight at a defender, forcing the defender to a) remain in
their spot (instead of cheating out to where they think the offense is going to pass the
ball). b) If this defender moves out of position in anticipation of a pass (and does not
guard their area), they usually leave the middle wide open, hence, the offensive player
can now drive into the lane (paint).
X X X X X X

X
X X X

a b

Fronting:
A defensive position that keeps an offensive player from
a)
receiving a pass into the post areas. Fronting is used to b) X1
keep the ball from a post player that has very good low post X2
moves (a), and also up high to keep the ball from a very good
high post shooter (b). The Defender is “in front of” the
offensive player as opposed to between man and basket.

Frontcourt (Post Players):

A reference to player positions on the court. Ex: The Frontcourt has not secured many
rebounds during the first half of the game tonight (meaning the post players did not do a
very good job of rebounding).

Game Clock: (Score Clock)

The clock that is the official “clock” being used to keep track
of the game. Usually these clocks are large and there are two
of them (one at each end of the court so that both teams can
easily see them).

Getting Open: “push off”

“V-Cut”

The act of getting away from a defender to get in a position

to receive a pass from a teammate. Some methods C
C
include: The V-Cut, Jab step, Curling, and the “push off.” X 1
1

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Guards:
The players on each team that are usually the outside shooters, the best ball handlers,
the fastest (and usually the smallest) players on the court. There are guards, shooting
guards, and point guards (the player that runs the offense, usually the team leader).
Usually numbered the “2” or “3, or “1” (Point Guard).

Half Court Press (Trap defense):

A pressing defense that starts at the opponents (offenses) side of the court.
There are many different types of half court presses / trap defenses: 1-3-1 (shown
below), 1-2-2, etc. The half court press is used to cause an opponent to commit
turn-overs. This defense must be played with intensity and aggressiveness. If the
first trap is broken, the offense could get an opportunity for an easy basket.

The 1-3-1 X4 X4
Basic Half
Court Set is
shown here. X2 X5 X3 X2 X5 X3

X1
X1

Imaginary Passing Line: (passing lane)

Imaginary Passing Lines
An imaginary line used to explain the
3
concept of Man-to-Man Defense to players. 2
Understanding the imaginary passing lines
assist with player positioning in a man to 1
man defense.

In-bounding:
The act of bringing the ball into play. Ex: The ball is “dead” when it goes out of bounds
anywhere on the court. The team that has possession must pass the ball to a teammate,
who is on the court (in-play); to get the ball back into play (called in-bounding the ball).

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 3
In-bounds Play:
An “out of bounds” play that is set up to put the 4
offense in a good position for a quick score or to get 2
the ball in safely (without the defense stealing the ball, 5
1
etc).

Incidental Contact:
Occurs when a defender makes contact with an offensive player and the contact is
deemed insignificant (the referees do not call a foul). This type of contact is appropriate
at times, but when allowed to continue for longer than it should, can cause problems in
the game (if left unchecked for too long).

Intentional Foul:
A type of foul that is designed to “stop the clock.” Used mainly at the end of the game
with the coach telling the players to “foul” in order to stop the clock, and get a chance to
gain possession of the ball. Intentional fouls can also be called if there is “Excessive”
contact during a foul.

Jump Ball:
The “jump ball” occurs at the start of each game (also called the “tip-off”) and at the
center circle. A player from each team lines up inside the circle and also on the outside
of the circle. The referee stands between the two players inside the circle and tosses the
ball straight up. The two players attempt to tip the ball to a player on their team. Jump
balls can also occur after two players “tie-up” the ball and the referee blows the whistle.

Jump Stop:
A move that players use to properly “stop” suddenly from a jumping motion. The Jump
Stop is used at the start of a “screen” (jump stop and screen), used to jump stop and
pivot, and also jump stop to shoot the ball. The jump stop is a necessary skill for players
to develop to coordinate a proper stopping position (taking two steps and then stopping
can be considered a traveling violation).

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Junk Defenses (Box and 1, Triangle and 2):
Types of defenses designed to take away an opponent’s strengths / stronger players
(best outside shooters, best ball handler, etc) in order to take away their opponents
advantage or momentum. These types of defenses can give an offense a tough time!

Box and 1: One

defender is assigned to X X
X X
guard the other teams
best shooter (or scorer), X X X X
while the other X1 X1
defenders form a “box”
set defense!
Triangle and 2: Two
defenders are assigned
to guard the other X X X X
team’s best “2” players X1 X2
or shooters, the other X1 X X2
X
defenders form a
“Triangle” set defense!

Lay-Up: Left Side Right Side

Lay-Up: Up Up
Lay-Up:
Referred to as the “easiest shot” in basketball. Start with Start with
Left foot, Right foot,
Right foot,
Lay-up’s occur when a player drives to the basket and up!
left foot,
and up!

and finishes with a short, one handed “lay in” shot

under the basket. = Left Foot = Right Foot
2 1

Lead Pass:
Occurs when a player passes the basketball in front of another
player making it easier for the player to receive the pass while
2 X2
staying “balanced” and keeping their “momentum”. The Lead pass X4
4

is hard for younger players to execute, but very useful.

Loose Ball:
A “Loose” ball occurs when neither team has possession, and the ball is “Live.”
Possession goes to the team that picks up the ball first.

Low Percentage Shots:

This refers to a player that attempts a wild shot, or a shot from a distance far from the

basket (Ex: A 3-point shot is a low percentage shot, the Lay-up a high percentage shot).

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Man-to-Man Defense:
A type of defense where each defender X4 is
“Fronting”
guards an offensive player. Man-to-Man
X5
defense is also referred to as “Team (UP the Line)
X4
Defense” because each player must “help”
other players when needed ( such as X3
X2
“switching” defenders if a player gets
X1
screened, etc). Man-to-Man Defense is hard
(ON the Line)
for the younger players to comprehend at
first so give them time to get comfortable Imaginary Passing Lines

with this type of defense.

Motion Offense:
The offense that is used vs. an opponent who is playing Man-to-Man Defense. A motion
offense utilizes screens, cutting, and lots of motion.

Movement without the Ball:

Refers to offensive players who do not have the ball
and tend to stand still. Players must always stay 4 5
X X
active even when they do not have the ball. This
makes it easy for a defender to guard a player.
Keeping defenders busy, makes them turn away from 2 X 3
X
the ball. Defenders tend to take their eyes off the ball X

when the player they are guarding is constantly 1

moving, cutting, and faking movements when they do

not have the ball.

Offense:
The team that has possession of the basketball and is attempting to score points. Types
of offenses include: Zone Offenses, Motion Offenses, and Inbounds plays. An Offense
is set up as a “planned” pattern that is taught to the players (to keep the players
organized on the court).

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On the line / Up the Line:
A basic building block of teaching Man to Man defense. On the line / Up the line refers to
the position of the defender on an imaginary passing line.

Left Hand: On the Line: On the line refers to which part of

On the Line: a defender’s body will be on the passing line.
Right Hand: Coaches use different approaches: Some
X2 3 coaches teach players to put their left or right
hand on the passing line, some teach players
2 X1 to put their head on the passing line, and some
teach players to put their body on the passing
line. X1 (left), X2 (right) hands are on the line.
1
Up the Line: Up the line refers to how far a
defenders body will be on the passing line. Up the Line:
How far up the line is up to the coach. Usually 3
the defender is about 3-4 feet up the line from 2 X2
the player that they are guarding. Coaches
X1
should adjust the distance a defender should
play up the line vs. the skills of the defender
(speed, quickness, etc). X1, X2 are up the line. 1

One and One: (1 and 1)

Refers to the free throws awarded because the other team has reached seven team fouls.
A player that is fouled on this seventh foul shoots one free throw, but only shoots a
second free throw if the first free throw was made. After 10 team fouls, two free throw
shots are awarded, even if this player does not make the first free throw). A.K.A. Bonus
and Double Bonus.

Out of Bounds:
When the ball travels out of the court area (the sidelines and baselines) the ball is out of
bounds. When a ball goes out of bounds, the referees determine the spot where the ball
went out (this is the spot where the team will in-bound the ball back into play).

Overtime (OT):
If a game is tied after the regulation time has expired, the game is extended. There
are no “tie” games in basketball. Overtime periods are repeated until the tie is
broken.

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Paint (Lane):
The rectangular area from the free throw line to the baseline
The
(painted area under the basket that extends up to the free throw Paint
line). Area

Pass:
A pass is made when an offensive player that has possession of the ball “throws” it to
another player on the same team. There are several types of passes:

Bounce Pass! Chest Pass! Overhead Pass!

Skip Pass! Outlet Pass! “Passing off the Dribble”

X X 3
4
5 X
2
X 4
X 1 X
5
X 3 X
1
1 2
X
3

Period:
Refers to the length of time used to represent quarters, halves, or overtimes in a
basketball game as shown on the official scoreboard / score clock.

Pick and Roll:

2
A type of offensive play that usually includes two offensive X
players and has two options when executed properly. X 4
1 X
Option a) The ball handler drives to the basket off the screen, X
5
and b) the screener getting open after setting the screen
X
and “rolls” (cuts to the basket after the screen). 3

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Pivot:
Pivoting is a skill that allows a player to use their “footwork” to Right foot is
the “Pivot” foot!
their advantage. A pivot is executed by first establishing a
X
“pivot foot” (once established, a player cannot pick up and / or
4
slide this foot). Once the pivot foot is established the player can
pivot (spin around) around in a 360 degree circle if they want. Left foot
“swings” around! C

Point guard:
The point guard is usually the best ball handler on the team. Point guards must be able
to dribble and “see” what’s happening on the court. Also referred to as the “playmaker,”
“floor general,” and sometimes as the “quarterback.” Usually numbered as the “1.”

Possession:
Basically the team that has control of the ball. The team with control of the ball would be
considered to be on “offense.”

Possession arrow:
Usually a plastic sign with an arrow on each side of it used to keep track of
possessions during the game. The sign sits at the scorers table and is “switched”
after “jump balls” and / or at the end of each period of the
game. Referees use the possession arrow as a guide to let
them know which team has possession, and which team
will be awarded possession next (during jump balls, or at
the end of periods). The official scorer is in charge of
keeping track of alternating possessions.

Post:
Refers to the areas of the court near the paint / lane areas that
the forwards and centers usually are positioned on offense.
Low
There are two areas that refer to the “post” area. They are the Post
areas
“Low Post” and the “High Post” areas.
High Post areas

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Post Players:
Usually the tallest and / or largest players on the court. Post players are usually referred
to as Forwards and Centers. Usually numbered as the “3” or “4” (forwards), and “5”
(center).

Press Breaking: 5

The offensive set up that a team uses when their

OFFENSE THIS WAY

opponent is running a “Full Court Pressing” defense.
2
The pass is the fastest way for any team to break a X X
1
pressing defense.
Note: 1,2,3,4, and 5 are set up in a Press Break, and the X X
4 3
defense (X’s) are set up in a Full Court Press!

Pressing (Full-Court Pressing / Defense): X

DEFENSE THIS WAY

Full court pressing occurs after an offense has made a
basket (or when the other team is inbounding the ball).
The defense immediately sets up on defense in an attempt
to “steal” the ball back from their opponent (quickly). Full-
court pressing is very effective if the traps are executed
properly.
* This type of defense can produce a lot of offense (made baskets after steals, etc).

Quick Hitters:
Refers to plays that are designed and set up to give a team the opportunity for a quick
score (basket). Quick Hitters can be designed out of inbounds plays, zone offense
plays, motion offense plays, and even press breaker plays.
Buzzer Beater! Inbounds Play! Sideline Play!

3 3
X
5X X 4 X
X X
1 2
X
5
X 4 X
1
2
X
5X X2

(Double Screen) 3 X
X
X 1
4
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Rebound:
There are “offensive” and “defensive” rebounds. A rebound occurs after a missed shot
attempt. Usually the missed shot bounces off the backboard or rim. Players that “box
out” usually get more rebounds. Offensive players that rebound a missed shot usually
get an easy basket (put-back) after the rebound. Any shots taken far from the basket ( 3-
point shot, etc.) usually bounce further from the basket (long shot, long rebound).

Receiver:
The offensive player that catches a pass from Receiver
another offensive player. A player that is
getting ready to “receive” a pass should:
a) have their hands out (away from their body),
Passer
b) step to the pass, c) “look” the ball into their
hands, and d) firmly catch the ball.

Referee (also referred to as Officials):

The referee is the “official” judge of the basketball game. All calls are usually final!

Referees make good calls and some not so good calls, but it is
important to remember that being a referee is very difficult (they only
have a “split second” to make the call). Referees are attempting to
look at 10 players on the floor while having to listen to irate coaches
and parents. Coaches must not allow the players to lose focus
because they are mad at the referees (this can take a player out of
the game). Allow the Referees to do their job, and focus on your job
as a coach. You will never see a Referee walk up to a coach and say
“I made a bad call” and then stop the game to change the call!
When a call is made, it is usually final (good or bad).

Reversing the Ball:

Refers to a strong pass made quickly around the X3
X5
perimeter (from the “strong side” to “weak side”). X4

X1
Used in a Zone Offense to get the ball around the X2
defense quickly. Reversing the ball places the
defense in a position where they have to recover
Ball quickly reverses around the
and react. perimeter to an open player!

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Roster (Player Roster):
Refers to a list of players on a basketball team. The information on the roster usually
includes the following: Players name, jersey number, height, and position. A more
detailed roster would include: All of the above plus grade, address, phone number, AAU
number, date of birth, etc. A roster may also include anyone who sits on the bench –
coaches, scorekeeper, trainer, etc.

Safety Defender:
Refers to the player that gets back on defense first to ensure that the opponent does not
execute easy “fast breaks” and / or a player that stays back so that there is always a
defender in a position to defend their basket. In a) the defense is running a full court
press without a “safety defender” leaving the long pass open, in b) the defense has a
“safety defender” and X1 is in a good position to take away the long pass and get back to
defend the basket easily.
5 5
X X X X X X
X 1 3 X X 3
2 1
4 4 2

X1
a) b)

(No “Safety” Defender) (“Safety” Defender)

Screen (Screener):
An offensive player that intentionally gets in a position to “block” a defender from
guarding another offensive player to put the player in a position to be “open.” Screening
is very important when running a motion offense. Screens are also used in zone
offenses and many other circumstances (inbounds plays, press breakers, etc).
4 is setting a “DOWN 2 is setting an “UP 2 is setting a “BASELINE
SCREEN” for the 2. SCREEN” for the 4. SCREEN” for the 4.

4
2 X2 2 X2 2 X4
X2

X4 X4
4 4

Youth Basketball Glossary 19 www.avcssbasketball.com

Sealing a Defender:
The act of blocking out a defender in order to get open for a shot, get in a position for a
rebound, or to lengthen the time of a screen. Once a defender is “sealed” by an
offensive player, the offensive player has a good advantage over the defender.

Right foot
is the X X Defender is sealed off, 4
“Pivot” foot! is facing the ball, and in
4 4
a good position to
Left foot score!
“swings”
around!
=Left Foot = Right Foot

Seeing the Court (Looking up when dribbling):

A very important skill that all players need to develop. The player's
ability to see everything happening on the court while dribbling the
basketball during a game. Usually the point guard possess this very
important and much needed court skill.

Shot Clock:
This is a separate clock usually located on top of the backboard (so the players can
always see it), that specifies the amount of time the team on offense has to attempt a
shot. Teams that do not attempt a shot in the specified time, will be charged with a
“shot clock” violation. Ex: NBA shot clock is 24 seconds.

Short Corner Area:

The short corner is the corner that is formed by the baseline
and the outside line of the base of the “Paint” area.
Short Corner Areas
Strong Side: (Ball Side)
The side of the court that the majority of the players
are on (the side that the ball is on). Usually Strong X4 X5
X2
Side is referenced with zone offense / defenses,
X3
X1
and Ball Side is used with motion offenses / man
to man defense (Ball Side / Help Side). “Strong-Side”
(Ball Side)

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Shooter (shooting the ball):
The player that shoots the ball. Shooting the ball is a basic
“art form” that takes a great amount of practice to perfect.
The main parts of shooting the basketball include: a) hold
the ball with fingertips (not with the palm), b) elbow in,
c) opposite hand is only used to help balance the ball and
Use “BEEF” = Balance (bend your knees
never to assist with the shot, d) eyes on the target (front or slightly), Elbow in, Eyes on target (front or
back of rim, stay consistent), and Follow
through!
back of the rim, just use the same target each time),
e) follow through (shot hand stays up until the ball goes in the hoop or misses).

Shooters Range:
Basically the distance from the basket where players can make a high percentage
of their shots. Players must understand their shooting range and try not to
attempt shots from beyond their range. A good rule to use for players shooting
range: If a player can make at least 6 out of 10 shots from a spot on the court in
practice, then they are allowed to take that shot in a game.

Sidelines:
The two outside lines that run the length of the court (opposite the baselines).
When inbounding the ball along the sideline, a player is not allowed to move until
the ball is passed in.

Sidelines

Sixth Man:
This references the player that usually comes off the bench first (the first substitute).
Besides the starting players, this is often a team’s best player. The player that would
most likely replace a starter if they got hurt or fouled out, etc. The sixth man position is a
very important one, if fact, at most high schools / colleges / and the NBA, there are
special awards for the “sixth man” position.

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Squaring Up:
A player is “squared up” when they are facing the
basket, shoulders parallel to the basket. Players
shooting off balance or standing sideways are not
“squared up” to the basket. Proper shooting form
includes “squaring up” to the basket. Not Squared Up! Squared Up!

Starters (starting lineup / starting five):

The five players who are chosen by a coach to be the first on the court at the beginning
of the game. The best combination of players that a coach chooses as “starters” does
not necessarily have to be the teams’ best five players. The starting five should be the
best five players that work together as a team (and want the team to succeed). This
combination will provide you with the best results in the long run.

Step-Slide:
A very important component of playing defense. The basic step-slide: Players are low
and with hands out / palms up, players step outward in a side to side motion, then pull
the opposite foot in (slide). Players that have trouble with the step-slide usually commit
more fouls and get beat more often than the players who can do the step-slide properly.

Players start in a good Players “Step” then Slide the opposite And so on….
“defensive” stance. outward…. foot inward….

Steering: Examples:
“Steering” the
ball handler:
The act of a defender to force a ball handler in a direction X

other than where the ball handler would like to go. Steering X
a) b)

is used mainly to force a ball handler into a trap and/or to X

force the ball handler to use their weaker dribbling hand. X

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Youth Basketball Glossary www.avcssbasketball.com
Substitute (Subs):
Players who do not “start” the beginning of the game and “go in for” a player that is
already in the game. The players on the bench ready to play in the game.

Switching (helping):
Occurs during the time when a player is getting X5 O5
X4 O4
X4 is helping
screened and can no longer guard the player they
X5 by
were guarding. This player should shout out switching to
X2
O2 X1 guard O5, X5
“switch” to alert a teammate that they need some O1 should now
guard O4
help defense. Some coaches teach players to “fight” X1 is helping X2 by
switching to guard O2, X2
through screens set up high (not switch), and only
should now guard O1
switch under the basket near the baseline.
“Switching” is usually the preference of the coach, and not a “standard.”

Team Fouls:
The fouls that all the players (and coaches) on a team commit are totaled up and logged
in by the scorekeeper as team fouls. If a team reaches 7 fouls then their opponent will
get to shoot free throws (called one and one). Once the team fouls reach 10, their
opponent will automatically get to shoot 2 free throws. Team fouls are “zeroed” out at the
end of the first half, and the team fouls are again tallied up at the start of the second half.

Technical Foul:
Fouls of unsportsmanlike conduct and / or non-game violations that referees feel are
affecting the game. Misconduct of coaches, players, and spectators can also draw a
technical foul if a referee feels it is necessary to keep the game under control. The
penalty for a technical foul is usually one free throw and possession of the ball after the
free throw is taken (made or missed). If a player or coach receives two technical fouls in
a game it is an automatic disqualification for remainder of the game.

Three Second Violation (3-second):

A 3-second violation can be called by a referee if an offensive player (that does not have
possession of the ball) stands in the paint area for 3-seconds or more. This violation is
considered a turn-over, and the other team is awarded possession of the ball.

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Youth Basketball Glossary www.avcssbasketball.com
Three Point Shot (3-Pointer):
A shot that is taken from beyond the half circle line is counted as 3-points (as long
as both feet were behind this line when the ball is
released). Note: If a player attempts a 3-point shot,
3-Point
gets fouled, and the shot goes in the basket, there
LInes
is a “rare” opportunity for a 4-Point play (made 3
pointer + 1 free throw).

Time outs:
A time out is a temporary suspension of a game. Coaches and / or players may call a
time out during a game. The team that has possession of the ball can call a time out and
either team can call a time out during a “dead ball.” There are Full, and 30 second time
outs. Each team usually gets 3- Full, and 2 – 30 second time outs per game, and an
additional time out is usually awarded if a game goes into an overtime period.

Transition Offense (See Fast Break):

When the defense “converts” into offense. Ex: when the defense gets a rebound, they
are now on offense. Transition offense also refers to the fast break: When the defense
rebounds / steals the ball, outlets to a teammate, and the ball gets up the court quickly.

Traps / Trapping:
The act of two defenders steering and manipulating the ball handler into an area where
they must stop (usually picking up their dribble). The trap should take place in a corner
area and never attempted in the middle of the court. The trap consists of one defender
steering the ball handler, and the other defender cutting off the sideline to form the
trapping “pocket.” BACKCOURT
The Defenders X 4
X 1
form a
Trapping X X
“Pocket”

X1 is Responsible X
for cutting off and 5
taking away the
sideline, and X2 is
X
responsible for
“Steering” the ball X2
handler into the trap.
X
X1
3 BACKCOURT X 2

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Youth Basketball Glossary www.avcssbasketball.com
Traveling violation:
If a ball handler takes too many steps while dribbling the referee can call a violation
(considered a turn-over by the player). Also called “walking.”

Triple Threat Position:

A basic offensive position that a player may: Shoot, Pass,
or Drive to the basket out of. *Triple Threat basic position:
Knees flexed (bent slightly), ball to the side, hands firmly
holding the basketball, and always facing the defender.

Tunnel Vision: (The opposite of Seeing the floor)

Just as some players have the ability to “see the floor” because they are dribbling with
their head up, some players have “tunnel vision.” Ex: A player wants to pass the ball to
a teammate, but they are “staring” at the player they are getting ready to pass to,
“telegraphing” where the pass is going to go. This makes it easy for the defense to
anticipate where the ball is going (making it easy for the defense to steal the ball).

Turnover:
Turnovers are committed by offensive players who “lose” the ball. There are “Forced”
and “Unforced” Turnovers. Unforced turnovers are errors by offensive players (poor
passes, sloppy dribbling, mis-catching the ball, etc. (without pressure from the defense).
Forced turnovers are caused by the defense (causing ball handlers to pick up their
dribble, forcing the player to pass too high / low / or out of bounds).

V-Cut (and “push off”):

Basic offensive moves to assist a player with
getting open. a)The basic steps of a V-Cut is to go
“slow in, and fast out.” This starts by taking the
defender slowly away from the ball (keep the X
1 X
defender to the side away from the ball, then cut a) b)
1
quickly to the ball. b) The “push off” is legal when
executed properly by only using a slight push-off, then cutting quickly to the ball.

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Youth Basketball Glossary www.avcssbasketball.com
Weak-side: (Zone)
The side of the court with the least
“Weak-Side”
amount of players (away from the side (Help Side)
X4 X5
1
where the ball is). Usually Weak Side is X2

referenced with zone offenses / X3

X1
defenses, and Help Side is used with
motion offenses / man to man defense
(Ball Side / Help Side). A main teaching
principle of learning Man-to-Man Defense.

Weak Side Rebound Area: 2 covers the Weak-Side rebound area!

The weak side block area (opposite the side of the ball).
5 4
It is estimated that 70% of all rebounds can come from
the weak side. It is important to ensure that players
drop down to this position when it is their responsibility! 3
2
The weak side rebound can be a very good opportunity
1 3
for a quick basket. Many easy baskets (put-backs) occur 1 passes to 3 Shoots

here!

Wing Area:
The “wing” area can extend from the outside low wing to Low Wing Area

the high wing, but the majority of the time “Wing” refers
to the high outside area! Ex: the 2 and 3 in the diagram
are in the “wing” areas, and 4 is in the “low wing” area.
High Wing Area

Zone Coverage:
The type of defense when players have the responsibility 4
5
of guarding (protecting) an assigned area. The opposite X X
X
of man to man defense. Players are playing an area and 2 3
X X
not guarding specific players until they come into their
assigned area of responsibility. Zone offenses are ran 1

against a zone defense.

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Youth Basketball Glossary www.avcssbasketball.com
Zone Defense: (X)
In a zone defense the defenders are responsible for 4
covering areas of the court rather than individual 5
players. The defense is denoted by the X’s in the X X X
diagram to the right. 2 3
X X
Zone Offense: (1, 2, 3, 4, 5)
A type of offense that is run within the half court
area vs. a zone defense. The players running a 1
zone offense in the diagram to the right and are 11 = Player with the Ball!

denoted by the numbers 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5.

Basketball Court Diagram / Info!

(BASELINE)

Wing Area Notes: The Strong Side/Ball

“Wing” can extend from LOW WING
ACROSS THE 4 Side: The side that
THE BLOCK
the outside low wing to the LANE CORNERS the ball and the
high wing, but the majority “STRONG majority of players
of the time the wing refers
5 SIDE”
“WEAK are on.
19’9 (BALL SIDE)
to the high outside area! 2 SIDE” 3 Weak Side/Help
Ex: the 2 and 3 in the (HELP SIDE) Side: The side that
diagram are in the “wing” HIGH WING HIGH WING has the least
ELBOW
areas. amount of players,
1 and the area that
defenders play
Player Number System: HASH “help” side defense.
FREE 3-POINT
1 = Point Guard MARKS THROW LINE
2 = Shooting Guard LINE Trapping Notes: In the
3 = Guard/Small Forward
(SIDELINE)

HALF examples the defenders

(SIDELINE)

4 = Forward COURT (X) form a “Trapping

CORNERS CORNERS
5 = Center CIRCLE Pocket.” One defender
6’ Radius
(HALF
must “steer” the ball
COURT) handler into the corners
1 3 and the other defender
X X X X
must take away the
X TRAPPING X sideline! Once the trap
“POCKET” is set, both defenders
5 must keep their hands
Best Places to Trap: up and never “reach” or
The Corners are the best TOP OF “slap” at the ball!
“SKIP PASS”
places for a defense to THE KEY
execute a trap, and of The middle of the
course, the worst areas for court is not a good
the offense to dribble the 2 place for a defense
ball into. Players should to attempt a trap.
try to keep the ball in the
middle of the court when SHORT
a defense is attempting to CORNER THE 15 Skip Pass/Pass Fakes:
trap (press) your team. X AREA “PAINT” X A great way to catch the
defense “off guard” is
X X with the “skip” pass.
4 2 “Freeze” the defense
Important Areas to Note:
* The Short Corner Area (BASELINE) with “pass fakes”
* The Paint Area (a simple skill to learn
* The Corner Areas and execute). Both
* The Block Areas passes are very
27 effective on offense!
Youth Basketball Glossary www.avcssbasketball.com
 Sportsmanship – Who’s Job is it?
As coaches we must make sure we keep things in perspective when it comes to Winning and
Losing. Sportsmanship is a valuable lesson that needs to be taught to players, but this should
not be the sole responsibility of the coach. Laying down the foundation of sportsmanship
must start with the parents! The coach’s responsibility is to “enforce” the basic guidelines
of sportsmanship! Plain and simple – both the parents and coaches have a big role in the
behavior of the players (it’s not just the function of the coach). Win or Lose, players must
exhibit good sportsmanship at all times. Players must never be allowed to blame the
referees, other players, or even coaches for bad decisions or calls – this is unacceptable!
Players should never make fun of opponents, brag, or trash talk after a victory (even in
victory good sportsmanship is crucial). Players will learn valuable “life-lessons” (including
character) over the long term if they are taught respect, responsibility, and good
sportsmanship by both the parents and coaches.

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