Purpose of calling for isolation in basketball
A primary objective of using an isolation play is to assist the offensive team in creating a scoring chance by using a single player away from the main action of the offense, while also providing a scoring opportunity for this single player. This type of play allows the offensive team to take advantage of your weakness and exploit it (typically aggressive defenders who leave their men to help in double team situations or try and help out on jump shots instead of staying with their man).
The isolation play is extremely valuable in basketball since it often provides an open shot for a shooter. If a team has a big man who can step out and block shots, then keeping him in front of his defender can create easy lay-ins for teammates. With the NBA spread offense, many teams have shifted towards running this play since it allows for easier transition baskets.
Isolation plays are different from go-to plays in that they can be deployed at any given time. They’re designed to isolate a player without creating a lot of tempo issues for the rest of the team. In addition, isolation plays don’t require the ball handler to be simultaneously active and involved in the offense. At the same time, using an isolation play is actually quite difficult for most teams. To be successful at it, you need players who can get into the lane and create fouls in isolation; get into position to contest shots when the defense collapses on one player; and then make timely defensive decisions when their teammates run out of action.
When is the best time to call for ISO basketball
When the score is tied at the half, some players prefer to run an ISO basketball rather than pick up a second offensive rebound. Why? It gives them an opportunity to score more easily. There are two main reasons players run isolation plays. First, they want to be able to score as quickly as possible. Second, they don’t want to give up their second offensive rebound. When the score is within single digits, most players want to be as aggressive as possible on defense. That means there’s very little interest in going for offensive rebounds unless it’s an offensive foul that gives them an opportunity to score without giving up a second defensive rebound.
Another clue to execute ISO basketball is when the other team is running a play that comes in at a faster pace than your own. Even if there’s only one isolated player on your team, you should still be able to call for a play that’s not completely straight-ahead until the defense rotates. This gives the other team a chance to get into a more aggressive defensive stance before you get the ball and allows you a chance to get into a better shooting position. The key to making this play isn’t really about speed. It’s about timing and positioning. The faster you can get into position before an action is taken, the better chance you have at making a good shot.
