I'm hoping that the Gophers will be working on some type of zone defenses for the BIG season. The main reasons I see the need for at least switching to some type of zone are as follows:
1. It will keep Reggie closer to the basket. Teams have been running the high ball screens pulling Reggie away from the hoop.
2. It should help protect our bigs from getting into foul trouble.
3. Zones played effectively can cause issues and don't necessarily lead to teams shooting lights out at the three point line.
4. It may be a better opportunity for our bench to be more effective and contribute more.
5. Switching defenses can confuse and force the opponent to adjust. Who knows how the opponent will react?
6. Successful zones (see Syracuse) can be very frustrating to figure out.
7. Changing defenses after time outs gives the opponent something to try to figure out and deviate from what was just planned in the time out with their coach.
I always liked to switch between odd and even front zones. An aggressive match-up zone can be made to look like a man-man and throw the opponent off. Even if it works a few times a game it just may help us gain some confidence. The past 4-5 games teams have run the same high-ball pick and roll and we have not adjusted or stopped it. Just my two cents worth.
1. It will keep Reggie closer to the basket. Teams have been running the high ball screens pulling Reggie away from the hoop.
2. It should help protect our bigs from getting into foul trouble.
3. Zones played effectively can cause issues and don't necessarily lead to teams shooting lights out at the three point line.
4. It may be a better opportunity for our bench to be more effective and contribute more.
5. Switching defenses can confuse and force the opponent to adjust. Who knows how the opponent will react?
6. Successful zones (see Syracuse) can be very frustrating to figure out.
7. Changing defenses after time outs gives the opponent something to try to figure out and deviate from what was just planned in the time out with their coach.
I always liked to switch between odd and even front zones. An aggressive match-up zone can be made to look like a man-man and throw the opponent off. Even if it works a few times a game it just may help us gain some confidence. The past 4-5 games teams have run the same high-ball pick and roll and we have not adjusted or stopped it. Just my two cents worth.