Ed DeChellis: 1-3-1 Extended Half Court Zone Defense

The biggest reason for playing the 1-3-1 zone defense is to neutralize your opponent's best post player. It also gives you the ability to move different players around in the defense. The point of the 1-3-1 zone must be a player who is athletic and can finish on the other end. A point guard-type player is perfect for the back of the zone. His coverage area is from corner to corner and he must be a great communicator. The 3-man covers the right side, from wing to block. The 4-man, the best rebounder, starts on the left wing. The 5-man sets up at the free throw line and is "the linebacker" of the entire defense- his coverage is from the top of the key to block. The key for this defense is to discourage direct passes by the offense. DeChellis breaks down the zone by putting the ball in different areas of the floor. Drills are included to fine-tune this defense. DeChellis calls the 1-3-1 zone "a high risk, high reward attack" that can change tempo quickly and make athletic opponents lethargic in a hurry!

69 minutes. 2007.