ISO, or isolation, is a basketball tactic used to create a one-on-one matchup between two players. It is often used by teams to create an advantageous situation for the offensive player, which can lead to an easy shot, a drive to the basket, or an opportunity to pass the ball to a teammate. In recent years, it has become an increasingly popular tactic in the NBA, with players like James Harden, Kyrie Irving, and Stephen Curry using it to great effect.
The idea behind the ISO is simple: one offensive player isolates himself from the rest of the team, usually by using a screen or dribbling away from the rest of the players. This creates a one-on-one matchup, and gives the offensive player the opportunity to take advantage of a smaller and slower defender. As the player dribbles, they can use various moves to create space and get an open shot, or use a pass to find an open teammate.
Why Is The ISO An Effective Basketball Tactic?
The ISO is an effective tactic because it allows offensive players to take advantage of mismatches. If an offensive player is being guarded by a smaller or slower defender, for example, the ISO can create a situation where the offensive player has a significant speed or size advantage. This can lead to an easy shot, a drive to the basket, or an open pass to a teammate.
The ISO also allows offensive players to create more space for themselves, as they can isolate themselves from the rest of the team and move around more freely. This can create more open passing lanes and better opportunities to score, as the defense has fewer players to cover.
How Can Teams Use The ISO?
Most teams use the ISO in two main ways. The first is to create an advantageous one-on-one matchup for an offensive player. If a team has a player who is particularly good at shooting, for example, they can use the ISO to create an open shot for them. Similarly, if a team has a player who is good at driving to the basket, they can use the ISO to create a one-on-one matchup and give the player the opportunity to drive to the basket.
The second way teams use the ISO is to create space for other offensive players. As the player who is being isolated moves around the court, they can create more open passing lanes and better opportunities for their teammates. This can lead to easy shots, open drives, and more scoring opportunities.
Why Do Teams Choose To ISO?
The ISO is a popular tactic because it is effective and can create advantageous matchups for offensive players. It also allows teams to create more space for their teammates and make it easier to score. This can be especially important in the NBA, where teams need to score points quickly and efficiently in order to win games.
Conclusion
The ISO is an effective tactic used by many teams in the NBA and other basketball leagues. It allows offensive players to take advantage of mismatches and create more space for their teammates. This can lead to more open shots, drives to the basket, and scoring opportunities. It is an important tool in any team's offensive arsenal and can be used to great effect.