Iverson Cut in Basketball: Basic Information Explained

What is the Iverson cut in basketball

The Iverson cut consists of action that occurs when an offensive player who is initially on one side of the court, usually near a wing area, cuts through to the other side, which is typically the opposite wing area, ultimately to get open and receive the basketball.

Moreover, the Iverson cut is commonly accompanied by two high post screens to help the cutter get open but this is not absolutely required in every instance.

It should also be noted that the Iverson cut is called just that because it was popularized and named after NBA Hall of Famer, Allen Iverson, who would use that particular basketball cut to get open, especially near the wing areas of the court.

Related: Iverson Cut (AI Cut) – YouTube

Why is the Iverson cut generally beneficial

The Iverson cut is generally beneficial because it could be implemented to create various scoring or other playmaking opportunities near the basket or near the perimeter areas of the court.

For example, the Iverson cut could be utilized by an offensive team’s best mid-range or three-point shooter to get open for an immediate jump shot scoring opportunity.

Alternatively, the Iverson cut could be used by the offensive player with the best dribbling skills and/or slashing capability to attack the rim, which could also result in a scoring/playmaking opportunity.

Furthermore, after an offensive player performs the Iverson cut, this commonly gives that same player an opportunity to score or make plays by way of isolation actions.

For example, let’s say that an offensive player receives the ball near the wing after executing the Iverson cut.

At the same time, let’s say that same player is now in a 1 on 1 isolation situation against their primary on-ball defender.

From there, the player in possession of the ball could be at a significant advantage if that same player has above average offensive skills and/or their primary defender has below average defensive skills.

Afterwards, the player with the ball could execute a series of dribbling moves such as a double crossover followed by a drive to the basket or a step back jump shot against the on-ball defender.

Nevertheless, in some instances, the on-ball defender could be at least average in terms of defensive skills.

If that is the case, then after carrying out the Iverson cut, the offensive player could initially receive the ball and set up in the triple threat position.

Following that, the offensive player could perform a simple action known as the jab step to open or change the defender’s stance and after that, that same player could then execute one or more dribble moves into a jump shot or drive for scoring/playmaking possibilities.

What are basic diagram examples of the Iverson cut

Example 1

This is a very basic example that simply demonstrates what the Iverson cut looks like. On the diagram, 2 starts near the right side wing and then executes the Iverson cut through the high post area to the left side wing.

Following that, 2 receives the ball from 1 and then can follow that up with a jump shot or a drive to the basket, eventually to score points in either case.

Example 2

This is another basic example of Iverson cut action, derived from the 1-4 high set.

To start, 2 performs the Iverson cut through the basketball screens set by 4 and 5 towards the left side wing area.

Also, as 2 utilizes the Iverson cut, 1 could dribble towards the left slot area to get a better passing angle.

Furthermore, as the Iverson cut and dribble action occurs, 3 cuts under the screens and across the lane to the right side corner.

Following that, 2 could receive the ball and then shoot or drive to the basket, particularly by way of isolation dribble moves.

Example 3 – Part 1

This is an example of an Iverson cut scoring play that features basic spread pick and roll action. To start, 2 executes the Iverson cut towards the left side wing from the right side wing via screens set by 4 and 5.

As that occurs, 3 cuts under the screens and across the lane to the right side corner and at the same time, 4 cuts across the lane to the left side corner after setting the screen.

Afterwards, 2 receives the ball from 1 and then 1 cuts away to the right side wing, previously occupied by 2.

Example 3 – Part 2

Next, 2 uses an on-ball screen set by 5 and then dribbles toward the lane while 5 rolls to the basket.

Also, 4 has an opportunity to execute the shake action by lifting up towards the left side wing, thus filling the space vacated by 2.

From there, 2 could take a mid-range shot, shoot a floater in the lane, or pass to one of the other teammates for additional scoring opportunities.

Example 4 – Part 1

This is an example of an Iverson cut scoring play that could potentially lead to scoring opportunities near the basket or near the perimeter areas of the court.

Prior to initial action, 1 is at the top, 2 is near the right side low post block, 3 is near the left side wing, 4 is at the high post, and 5 is near the left side low post block.

To begin, 3 executes the Iverson cut to the right side wing via the high post screen set by 4.

As that happens, 5 cuts across the lane to the right side low post area via the cross screen set by 2.

Immediately following that, 3 receives the ball near the right side wing while 2 and 4 cut out towards the left side corner and left side wing respectively.

After that, 3 could take the three-point shot if that is open or alternatively, 5 could receive the ball from 3 and attempt to score via a low post move.

Example 4 – Part 2

Next, if 3 did not take the jump shot or 3 did not make the post entry pass, then 3 could dribble towards the baseline via the step-up screen set by 5.

Following that, 5 could short roll towards the lane area in front of the basket.

From that point, 3 could attempt to score at the rim or as another option, 5 could receive the ball and score around the rim as well.

In addition to those scoring possibilities, 2 or 4 on the weak side could receive the ball via a drift pass from 3, which could then lead to potential jump shot opportunities.