The Automatic Pickup Rule: When Change of Possession Results in a Fast Break,Your Players Guard the Player 
Who Was Guarding Them
The Automatic Pickup Rule: When Change of Possession Results in a Fast Break,Your Players Guard the Player Who Was Guarding Them

Basketball: The Automatic Pickup Rule Controls Opposing Fast Breaks

Dick Moss, Editor, PE Update.com

Does your team have trouble guarding opponents who play good transition basketball? Do they scamper about looking for the player they're supposed to guard, only to find that player already half-way down the court?

If so, try the Ralph Miller Automatic Pickup Rule. It's a simple guideline: when the opposition gains possession of the ball in transition, your players guard the player who was guarding them. This minimizes confusion and places players near their check.

Mismatches?
One problem with this system is that it may create mismatches in height and skill level. You can minimize this problem by having all players practice defending all offensive positions: guard, wing and post. And reward the players who become the best all-around defenders with the most playing time.

References:
1. Ed Anderson, The Tempo Press, Kindle Edition, Amazon Digital Services, 2011.
2. Jerry Krause (Editor), Coaching Basketball—The Official Centennial Volume of the National Assn of Basketball Coaches, Masters Press, 1991.


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© 2011, Physical Education Update.com, www.peUpdate.com

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