Basketball Game Plans is a work in progress.
I am hoping to create a basketball learning and teaching resource for coaches, players, and parents that is clean, simple, easy to understand, and isn’t cluttered with a ton of ads. Tell me what you want to see. Your feedback is welcome →

Baseline Cut

Baseline Cut Overview

What is a Baseline Cut?

A baseline cut is an off-ball movement where an offensive player cuts along the baseline (the boundary line at the end of the court) to create separation from their defender and get into a better position for an offensive opportunity. This move is commonly used in set plays, motion offenses, or to exploit defensive lapses.

In our example, we start in a 3-Out 2-In formation with our small forward/swing player (3) on the perimeter in the left wing position. The (3) drifts towards the corner then explodes across the baseline while our two post players (4) and (5) drop to the baseline and set stagger screens. The (3) cuts below the screens to create separation from defensive players, then sets up on the opposite side of the court to be fed the ball in the right corner. If executed well, a baseline cut will set up a catch-and-shoot situation, drive, or penetrate and kick opportunity.

Baseline Cut Benefits

  • Creates High-Percentage Scoring Opportunities: Often leads to layups, open jump shots near the basket or in the corner, or penetrate and kick opportunities.
  • Disrupts Defensive Alignment: The movement forces defenders to react and adjust, potentially creating mismatches or open spaces for teammates.
  • Effective Against Zone Defense: Exploits gaps in zones, particularly along the baseline where defenders may be less attentive.
  • Enhances Offensive Spacing: Keeps defenders occupied and maintains optimal spacing for other offensive players.
  • Leverages Screens: Can be combined with off-ball screens to maximize separation and scoring chances (like in our example).

Baseline Cut Coaching Points

  • Timing is Critical: Coordinate the cut with screeners’ movements (if using picks) and the ball handler’s actions to create separation from the defender and ensure the pass arrives when you’re in an optimal position.
  • Stay Close to the Baseline: The cutter should cut as close to the baseline as possible to maintain the element of surprise and limit defensive interference.
  • Read the Defense: Watch for defenders overplaying or losing focus and react accordingly. Exploit defensive rotations to cut into open areas left unfilled by rotations or switches.
  • Utilize Screens Effectively: If screening is involved, cut tightly around the screener(s) to shake defenders or force them to take a longer route.
  • Keep Hands Ready: Have a target hand ready and be prepared to catch the pass securely and immediately transition to the next action.
  • Communicate: Signal to the passer with a quick gesture (wave a target hand in front of you, for example) or eye contact if you see an opening.

Baseline Cut

Baseline Cut Full Play Action

Performing a Baseline Cut

1

Perimeter Player Shifts Towards Corner

To set up the baseline cut, the (3) drifts towards the left corner as the result of a predetermined trigger or play call, or immediately after crossing half court in transition or when playing uptempo.

Baseline Cut

Step 1

2

Explode Across Baseline Using Screens Set By Post Players

The following actions happen in rapid succession as the (3) completes their drift to the corner:

  • The post players (4) and (5) drop down to the baseline and shift over slightly in the direction of the cutter to get set up for picks.
  • When the (3) sees the (4) and (5) in position to execute a stagger screen, the (3) explodes from the corner area across the baseline, using the picks set by the (4) and (5) to shake their defender.
  • While the (3) makes their cut from the left, the point guard (1) passes to the shooting guard (2) on the opposite side of the court, who then is looking to quickly pass to the (3) coming off the cut. If executed well, the (3) should be open and able to catch and shoot or penetrate for a scoring or passing opportunity.

 

Baseline Cut

Step 2

Scroll to Top

Share your thoughts.

Please enable JavaScript in your browser to complete this form.
Your Name

Did you know?

A'ja Wilson, Lisa Leslie, Lauren Jackson, and Sheryl Swoopes have each won the WNBA Most Valuable Player (MVP) award three times, the most of any player in the league's history.

How many MVPs has Lisa Leslie won?

Enter your answer as a number, e.g.: 7