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A lot of games come down to 2 possessions or less. 

This can be from missed free throws, special situation plays, a defensive breakdown.

Today, we are going to take a look at what you can do as a coach to have your team prepared and have an edge in these types of games. 

The special situation is where I believe a coach can impact the game the most.

Let’s take a look at the Stanford play here vs. UCLA. Stanford had a great play for the way UCLA elected to defend and everyone executed their role. 

Ending quarters, how do you handle it? Do you play for the last shot? Coach Lin Dunn, former WNBA Champion coach, discusses the importance of practicing these types of situations. This situation can help you in those 2 possessions games determine who wins or loses. She discusses in this clip the importance of holding the ball for last shot and mixing up your defense to confuse your opponent. 

Full Video of Lin Dunn 

In another clip Coach Andy Toole of Robert Morris goes over his Hawk Set in this film cut. What I like about Coach Toole is how he uses this play versus a team that plays the post a certain way on defense. 

He explains the importance of scouting and using your existing actions you have to get an easy shot. Coach Morris shows game footage of him taking his Hawk Set and getting a post touch based upon his scout. 

Watch the Full Video of Andy Toole: Shooting, Passing and ATO’s from the New Jersey Basketball Coach Association Clinic

I really like this video following clip Coach Luka Bassin shows a baseline out of bounds where in this play it gets your shooter who is taking the ball out of bounds a great shot. 

This play would be great for that situation when you are down by 3 with 7 seconds in the game and you need that 3 pointer to tie from a Baseline Out of Bounds Situation

If you are looking for some great ways to teach Special Situations in practices,  Kurt Guelsdorf shares some great games. Just putting in these 4 situations for 5 minutes a day at practice will help your players.

Other great resources for Special Situations to give you the edge for the following situations: After time outs and Sideline Out of Bounds as a coach you always want to be prepared.

Brad Stevens ATO Playbook- Boston Celtics

Back Screen Rip Screen ATO Plays

Sideline Out of Bounds Plays Collections

Other Great Resources on Special Situations -->

Best of luck coaches, 

Leigh, Lason and Coaches Coaches Clinic Community team