Shield Tag 1-on-1+1

Setup, Constraints and Explanation

Setup

This activity develops functional solutions in ball handling, while defenders work on evading picks and off-ball screens. Players work in groups of three with one player designated as the defender, one as the escaper, and one as the shield. The shield is the only player without a basketball, and their job is to protect the escaper from getting the basketball stolen from the defender. The shield can position themselves however they like in order to do this. Players can play in a constrained space, for example, the center circle, paint, or inside the 3PT line, with different areas affording varied movement solutions. Players change roles anytime the defender steals the ball or after 30 seconds if there is no successful steal.

Constraints

• Instead of stealing the ball, the defender has to pull a bib out of the offensive player’s shorts or touch their back.
• Play in a smaller area to make it more challenging for the escaper.
• Dribble only using one hand.
• Remove the defender’s basketball to make it harder for the escaper and shield.
• Add different obstacles and move them around frequently for players to interact with them in different ways. For example, place some crash mats or chairs within the playing area.
• Have additional defenders (e.g. coaches) who act as moving barriers stunting at the ball.
• Play the same game on a different floor surface, such as grass or sand.
• Play the game with more players in a designated space, for example, two defenders, two escapers, two shields.

Explanation

One player will be the defender, who also dribbles a basketball and tries to steal the ball of the escaper. One player is the shield, who doesn’t dribble a ball but can protect the escaper to avoid having their ball stolen. Play inside the 3PT line, and change roles if the escaper gets the ball stolen or commits a violation.

From Transforming Basketball (2024) by Alex Sarama, chapter 8, pp. 263 to 264.