,

University of Miami’s Associate Head Coach Chris Caputo emphasizes the importance of Transition Defense and breaks down the main priorities while picking up defense in transition:

Transition Priorities

Stop the Shooters

As Coach Caputo mentioned, in this new era of basketball, most of the players can shoot the 3 and are not afraid to shoot the ball in transition. One of the most important things is to locate shooters as soon as possible, right after securing the paint. Take a look at the break down of Coach Caputo’s philosophy on locating the 3 point shooters in transition:

Locate 3pt Shooters

Guard the Secondary Offense - Drag Screen Defense

Another key in transition defense is to stop and eliminate the secondary offense, usually in the form of a drag ball screen. As Coach described in the first video, the key here is to have the paint packed with as many players possible (while also respecting the 3 point shooters, of course). Watch the full breakdown in the video below: 

Trail Up Link

How do we put it all together? 

Let’s take a look at some practice drills. 

Van Gundy Conversion Drill is a 5-on-4 drill Coach Caputo learned from NBA Coach Jeff Van Gundy, which makes the team focus and emphasize all the principles of transition offense.

Let’s take a look at the drill below:

Van Gundy Drill Link

It’s never too late to improve your transition defense. Watch your film and keep in mind all the principles mentioned above, and see where your transition defense is leaking. 

Never get out-coached,

– The Coaches Clinic Community of Coaches Helping Coaches