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Elbow Split

A multi-option set from the Elbow Series that combines back screens, a handoff setup, and a pin down into a handoff for drives, kick-outs, or inside looks.

OFFENSE

Set Play

FORMATION

4-Out 1-In

CORE ACTIONS

Pin Down, Back Screen, Dribble Handoff (DHO)

PLAY DESCRIPTION

Overview
Elbow Split is a half-court set out of the Elbow Series designed to put constant pressure on the defense with screening and handoff actions. The sequence creates layup opportunities, handoff penetration, and secondary drive-and-kick options.

Why it works
The early back screen forces help inside, while the false handoff into a pin down keeps the defense guessing. The final handoff with 4 attacking downhill puts multiple defenders in rotation, opening driving lanes, roll opportunities for the big, and kick-outs to shooters.

Teaching Points

  • 3 must set a hard back screen for 1, then pop quickly to disguise the action.

  • 5’s back screen for 2 must be set with contact to free the rim cut.

  • Timing of the false handoff is key to shifting the defense.

  • 4 must attack the handoff aggressively to score or create.

Variations
3 can slip after faking the handoff. 4 can reject the pin down and cut directly into space. If the defense collapses, 4 should kick to 3 or hit 5 rolling inside.

PRIMARY ACTIONS

  • 1 passes to 2; 3 sets back screen for 1, who drifts to corner.

  • 3 pops to slot; 2 passes to 3.

  • 5 sets back screen for 2; 2 cuts to rim (first look), then clears to corner.

  • 1 lifts to wing; 3 passes to 5, then fakes handoff.

  • 3 sets pin down for 4 lifting from corner.

  • 4 comes off pin down, receives handoff from 5, attacks rim.

  • 5 rolls; 3 replaces 4 in corner for kick-out option.

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