Halfcourt set provides Gators countless options

Sporting News, The, Dec 13, 1999 by Steve Harrison

The young Florida Gators usually try to force turnovers off the press and score in transition, but when they must run a set offense--and be patient--the Gators often run "Up."

Florida has so many offensive weapons, Up isn't designed for just one player. This standard offensive set gives the Gators two initial options, but if those aren't available, several other possibilities develop at the end of the play.

THE SETUP: Point guard Teddy Dupay (1) dribbles from the top of the key and passes to guard Kenyan Weaks (2). Dupay then cuts past center Udonis Haslem (5) in the high post. If Dupay is open for a layup, Weaks hits him with a pass. That's the first option. If Dupay isn't open, Weaks passes to Haslem as he steps to the top of the key.

SECOND OPTION: Dupay then sets a backscreen for power forward Donnell Harvey (4), who flashes to the low post. If he's open, Haslem passes inside for a dunk or a layup. But if Harvey's man has fought through the screen--or if the defense has recovered--Haslem will pass back to Dupay, who has come back outside.

TRIPLE TAKE: Forward Mike Miller (3) then comes in from the perimeter and sets a screen for Harvey, who comes back across the lane. Haslem then picks Weaks' man, allowing Weaks to break toward the basket, then jump back in position for a 3-point attempt. This gives Dupay three possibilities: 1) He can shoot a jumper; 2) he can pass to Weaks for a 3-point attempt, or 3) he can pass inside to Harvey.