The Hoops Geek Drill Library | Read & React: Bigman Drill

Andreas Rauh

Published 22 April 2025

Read & React: Bigman Drill

Although the traditional Zoom Action is highly effective, what makes it truly special is the endless variations it can create within the same setup.

To execute all the options effectively, the big man with the ball must be a high-level decision-maker, capable of reading the defense and making precise passes. This drill is designed to sharpen those passing instincts and ensure the offense maximizes every opportunity created by Zoom Action.

Setup

Set up the four players in a Zoom Action setup with the ball in 5's hand

Zoom Action

If the Zoom Action is not denied, 5 can execute a firm handoff
Make sure to stand wide to become a screen while executing a handoff

Curl

If 1's defender is overplaying the Zoom Action, 1 can curl after receiving the down screen from 3
5 must make an accurate pass to 1

Backdoor

If 1's defender is denying the down screen, 1 can backdoor
5 must make an accurate pass to 1

Backdoor alternative

If 1's backdoor is also denied, 3 can come up for a handoff
If 5 decides not to make the backdoor cut pass, 5 must tell 3 to come up for a handoff

Backdoor alternative into Zoom Action

1 can cut to the other side of the court and execute the same Zoom Action with 2

Shot making

If 5's defender is too occupied with the Zoom Action and leaves 5 open, 5 can shoot the open shot or dribble drive towards the basket

Weakside backdoor

2 can also decide to backdoor cut if 2's defender falls asleep
5 must make an accurate pass to 2

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Although the traditional Zoom Action is highly effective, what makes it truly special is the endless variations it can create within the same setup.