Extra Man Offense gives your team a player advantage, making ball movement, cutting, and spacing especially important.

One effective set is Denver's double seal down action for a step-down shooter.

Start Open

The set begins with no players on the crease.

As the ball moves around the perimeter, the offense triggers the man-up set.

  • One player from low enters the crease.

  • This creates a 2-3-1 formation.

  • Another player then cuts down into the crease.

  • The formation becomes a 1-4-1.

Use the Double Seal

The key to the play is what happens when the second high player cuts down into the crease.

The first player in the crease is already being covered by a short-stick defender. When the second player cuts down, he pulls a high defender into the crease as well.

The defense switches inside, but both offensive players are able to seal their defenders.

Create the Skip Pass

The seals create an opening for a skip pass from X across the top.

Now the defense is under pressure. One defender is forced to split two offensive players while trying to recover to the shooter.

This creates the opportunity for the step-down shot.

Finish the Play

Once the ball reaches the open shooter, he can step down and take the shot before the defense has time to recover.

The play works because the offense uses movement, seals, and ball movement to force the defense into difficult decisions.

Key Takeaway

A strong extra man offense doesn't rely on one player making a play. Use cuts and seals to move defenders, create passing lanes, and give your shooter enough space to step down and finish.