The "small ball" revolution has transformed lineup construction. Teams playing without traditional centers have won championships. But the pendulum swings - size still matters in certain matchups. Smart coaches understand both approaches and know when to apply each.
What is Small Ball?
Small ball typically means:
No traditional center: Playing a versatile forward at the five position.
Five shooters: Everyone on the floor can threaten from three.
Switching defence: Size is sacrificed for defensive versatility.
Pace and space: Faster tempo, more spread floor spacing.
Small Ball Advantages
Spacing: Five shooters stretch defences to the maximum.
Switching: No weak link to target in the pick and roll.
Speed: Faster in transition and on rotations.
Closeouts: Perimeter players close out better than traditional bigs.
Ball movement: More playmaking and passing ability across positions.
Small Ball Vulnerabilities
Rebounding: Size disadvantage on the glass, both ends.
Post defence: True post scorers can exploit mismatches.
Physical toll: Smaller players defending bigger ones wear down.
Foul trouble: Size mismatches can lead to foul issues.
When Traditional Size Wins
Elite post scorers: When opponents have dominant bigs who punish small lineups.
Rebounding battles: Games where second chances decide outcomes.
Rim protection: Against teams that attack the basket consistently.
Matchup hunting: When the opponent's small lineup creates exploitable matchups.
Situational Lineup Decisions
Start vs close: Many teams start traditionally but close games with small lineups.
Matchup specific: Adjust based on opponent's lineup on the floor.
Score and time: Different situations call for different lineup priorities.
Foul situation: Foul trouble forces lineup adjustments.
Building Versatile Rosters
Position-less players: Value players who can defend and play multiple positions.
Shooting bigs: Centers who can space the floor enable lineup flexibility.
Versatile wings: Players who can play the four in small lineups.
Guard depth: Multiple ball handlers enable different configurations.
Key Coaching Points
- Small ball offers spacing and switching advantages
- Traditional size wins rebounding and post defense battles
- Situational awareness determines optimal lineup
- Roster construction should enable multiple approaches
- Match your lineup decisions to matchups and game situation
