If you’re looking for a straightforward yet effective way to spring your sharpshooter loose, this 4 Across inbounds play is exactly what you need.
Why This Works
Most youth defenses collapse toward the paint when defending baseline inbounds plays. They expect a big to cut inside or a quick handoff under the rim. This play flips that expectation on its head—using a screen and a decoy movement to shift defensive attention and free up your best shooter.
- Defensive Habits: Youth teams instinctively protect the paint first.
- Shooter’s Sweet Spot: The corner provides a clean look for a quick catch-and-shoot.
- Misdirection: A well-placed screen and a secondary movement keep defenders guessing.
Setting Up the 4 Across
Start with four players lined up across the free-throw line:
- Your shooter should be positioned near the corner.
- A guard takes the opposite wing.
- The other two players stand in the middle, ready to set screens.
At first glance, it looks like a typical 4 Across setup. But the key difference? This play is all about creating a clean shot in the corner, not just getting the ball inbounded.
Step-by-Step Execution
1. Set a Screen for the Shooter
As soon as the ref hands over the ball, one of the middle players steps toward the shooter’s defender, setting a strong screen. This gives your shooter just enough space to make a clean sprint to the corner.
2. Use a Decoy Cut
While the shooter is getting screened, the guard on the opposite wing makes a quick diagonal cut toward the basket. This forces the defense to react, keeping help defenders occupied and preventing an easy switch.
3. Have an Emergency Outlet
If the defense anticipates the corner pass, one of the middle players should slide up as a safety valve. If the primary option isn’t open, you’ll still have a clean passing option up top.
4. Deliver the Pass for a Catch-and-Shoot
Once the screen is set and the shooter is in position, the inbounder’s job is simple—deliver a sharp pass to the corner. The goal is to set up a quick-release three before the defense can recover.
Want to see it in action? Check out this breakdown to watch how the corner shot opens up once the defense takes a step too far inside.
Key Takeaways
- Timing Is Everything – A slow screen or delayed cut gives the defense time to recover. Crisp execution is key.
- Sell the Decoy – If the defense doesn’t bite on the guard’s cut, they might close out quicker on your shooter. Make the movement believable.
- Repetition Builds Confidence – Run this play at game speed in practice. The sharper the footwork and timing, the more reliable it becomes.
- Have a Backup Plan – If the corner shot isn’t there, your high safety valve needs to be ready to reset the offense.
Final Thoughts
This play works at all levels but is especially effective in youth basketball, where defenses naturally gravitate toward the paint. With a well-placed screen, a hard cut, and a decoy action, you’ll get your best shooter a clean look from deep.
If you’re coaching a team that struggles to get open shots, give this a try in practice. The results speak for themselves.