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Front Cut

Front Cut Overview

What is a Front Cut?

A front cut (also called a face cut) is an offensive move used to get open by cutting in front of the defender. It is often used when a defender is overplaying the passing lane, trying to deny the ball. Front cuts are effective in creating separation for a pass or scoring opportunity.

We will present two front cut example scenarios starting in a 5-Out formation: One coming from the perimeter in the wing setting up a pass near the free throw line and a second beginning low in the corner setting up a pass in the low post near the block.

Front Cut Benefits

  • Creates Scoring Opportunities: Often leads to open layups or close-range shots if the cut is executed effectively.
  • Punishes Defensive Overplays: Exploits defenders who are overly aggressive in denying the ball.
  • Keeps the Defense Moving: Forces defenders to adjust, disrupting their positioning and potentially opening gaps for teammates.
  • Maintains Offensive Flow: Keeps players active and moving, preventing stagnation in the offense.
  • Simple Yet Effective: Basketball front cuts are a fundamental move that doesn’t rely on advanced skills but can be highly impactful when done correctly.

Front Cut Coaching Points

  • Sell the Fake: Make the initial movement away from the basket convincing to shift the defender’s weight or positioning.
  • Explode on the Cut: Use quick, sharp footwork to create immediate separation.
  • Stay Low: Maintain a low stance throughout the cut to stay balanced and agile.
  • Shield the Ball: Use your body to protect the passing lane and prevent the defender from intercepting.
  • Communicate: Signal to the passer if you’re open, using eye contact or a verbal cue.
  • Timing is Crucial: The passer and cutter must be in sync to avoid turnovers or missed opportunities.

Front Cut

Basic Wing Front Cut (From 5-Out)

Front Cut

Basic Low Post Front Cut (From 5-Out)

Wing Front Cut

1

Fake Backdoor Cut Behind Defender

The shooting guard (2) makes a strong half or full step move behind the defender to throw the defender off and shift their momentum in the wrong direction. Selling this initial cut fake to the defender greatly increases the chances of executing an effective front cut leading to a scoring opportunity.

Front Cut

1

2

Reverse and Cut In Front of Defender

Once the (2) has sold the cut fake and has their defender off balance and heading in the wrong direction, the (2) quickly makes a sharp move in the opposite direction, curling tightly around the defender and down towards the basket.

When the (2) has created separation and/or an advantage out in front of their defender, they should signal to the ball hander for a pass by showing a target hand out in front of them and verbally calling for the ball.

Once the pass is made, the (2) should now be set up for a layup/floater, short pull up jump shot, or kick out pass to an open teammate if one or more off-ball defenders come in to help.

Front Cut

2

5-Out Low Post Front Cut

1

Fake Backdoor Cut Behind Defender

The power forward (4) makes a strong half or full step move behind the defender signaling a backdoor or baseline cut to throw the defender off and shift their momentum away from the true cut path. Selling this initial cut fake to the defense is crucial since it dramatically improves the chances of successfully creating separation from the defender down low when the front cut is made, leading to an easy basket close to the hoop.

Front Cut

1

2

Reverse and Cut In Front of Defender

Once the (4) has sold the backdoor cut fake and their defender is heading down the baseline in the wrong direction, the (4) quickly reverses their momentum and makes a sharp move back out and around the defender, curling in towards the basket.

When the (4) has created separation and/or an advantage in front of their defender, they should signal to the ball hander for a pass by showing a target hand out in front of them and verbally calling for the ball.

Once the pass is made, the (4) should now be set up near the basket for an easy layup, short jumper, or a kick out pass to an open teammate on the perimeter if one or more off-ball defenders come in to help.

Front Cut

2

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