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Layup Basketball Plays: Scoring Opportunities Near the Rim

General definition of layup basketball plays

Layup basketball plays primarily feature offensive actions that are generally designed to help one or more players get open for scoring opportunities by way of high percentage shots near the rim.

Examples of layup basketball plays

This section contains examples of various types of basketball plays consisting of different player motions or skills such as basketball screens or basketball cuts, which could be utilized to create potential layups near the basket.

Additionally, it should be noted that each of the offensive players on the diagrams below are generally represented by the standard basketball positions.

In essence, 1 is the point guard; 2 is the shooting guard; 3 is the small forward; 4 is the power forward; 5 is the center.

1-4 high

Part 1: Iverson cut

Example basketball diagram that demonstrates an Iverson cut among other offensive actions from a 1-4 high set

This is a basketball play initiated from a 1-4 high offensive set featuring an Iverson cut among other actions, which could eventually lead to an easy layup at the rim for a couple of the offensive players.

For the setup: 1 is at the top in possession of the basketball, represented by the black dot; 2 and 3 are on the wings; 4 and 5 fill the high post elbows.

To start, 2 performs an Iverson cut from the right side wing to the left side wing by way of the high post screens set by 4 and 5.

Also, as that happens, 3 deep cuts through to the right side corner. Following that, 2 receives the ball from 1, denoted by the dotted arrow.

Furthermore, 4 occupies the recently vacated right side wing, which also promotes good spacing on the court.

Part 2: Back screen

Example basketball diagram that showcases a back screen, which could lead to a layup opportunity

Next, 1 cuts to the basket via the back screen set by 5. Afterwards, 1 could receive the ball from 2 and score via a layup at the rim.

Otherwise, if 1 is not open for the layup, then 1 could continue the cut through to the left side corner.

Part 3: Pick and roll

Example basketball diagram that showcases pick and roll action, which could result in layup opportunities

Once 1 fills the corner, 2 and 5 can execute pick and roll action near the left side wing.

Essentially, 2 could use the pick set by 5 and dribble towards the lane, represented by the wavy arrow. Furthermore, as that happens, 5 also rolls to the basket.

Afterwards, 2 could continue to dribble and attack the rim for a layup, represented by the gray wavy arrow. Alternatively, 5 could receive the ball from 2 and score via a layup as well.

1-4 Low

Part 1: Roll and replace

Example basketball diagram that demonstrates roll and replace action within a 1-4 low set

This is a basketball play initiated from 1-4 low offense comprising roll and replace action, which could eventually result in a potential layup.

For the setup: 1 is at the top in possession of the basketball, represented by the black dot; 2 and 3 are in the corners; 4 and 5 fill the low post areas.

To start, 1 dribbles toward the left side wing area by way of an on-ball screen or pick that is set by 4.

Following that, 4 rolls to the basket while 5 replaces near the right slot area between the top and right side wing.

From there, 4 could receive the ball from 1 and attempt to score a layup. If that is not open, then 4 could cut to the original spot while 5 receives the ball from 1.

Part 2: Flex screen

Example basketball diagram that demonstrates flex screen action, which could lead to a layup

Next, 2 could cut to the basket via the flex screen set by 4. After that, 2 could receive the ball from 5 and score a layup at the rim.

Chin

Part 1: DHO and interchange

Example basketball diagram that demonstrates DHO and interchange action within the Chin series

This is a basketball play derived from the Chin series of Princeton offense that could generate a quick layup at the basket.

In terms of the initial setup: 1 fills the left slot with possession of the ball; 2 occupies the right slot; 3 is on the left side wing; 4 is on the right side wing; 5 fills the left side low post area.

To begin, 1 and 3 perform dribble handoff action, also known as a DHO, indicated by the wavy arrows and double pipe symbol.

At the same time, 3 and 4 interchange spots on the weak side of the floor while 5 lifts toward the high post elbow on the left side.

Part 2: Back screen

Example basketball diagram that showcases a back screen, which could result in a layup

Next, 4 receives the ball from 3 via a slot to slot pass. After that, 2 receives the ball from 4 via a slot to wing pass.

From there, once 2 gains possession of the ball, 3 immediately cuts to the basket via a back screen set by 5.

Following that, 3 could receive the ball from 2 and score near the rim by way of a layup.