Spacing
The deliberate positioning of attackers far enough apart to stretch the defence and open up passing and driving lanes.
Definition
Spacing describes how a team spreads its players across the playing area so defenders cannot guard two attackers at once. Good spacing keeps players far enough apart that a defender who helps on one opponent leaves another open.
The concept is central to modern basketball, where shooters stand beyond the three-point line to stretch the defence, and it also matters in football, netball and handball. Poor spacing lets defenders cover several attackers together, while good spacing multiplies the value of individual moves such as drives, screens and cuts.
Where you’ll hear “spacing”
Sports that use this term:
Basketball
A fast, dynamic team sport of running, jumping and quick decisions on court.
Football
The world’s most popular team sport — endless running, teamwork and community in one game.
Netball
A non-contact, position-based team sport of quick passing and accurate shooting.
Handball
A fast indoor team sport of passing, jumping and throwing to score with the hands.
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Tactics
- Fast breakPushing the ball up court at speed after a turnover or rebound to score before the defence sets up.
- Counter-attackWinning the ball and moving forward at speed to attack before the opponent can reorganise their defence.
- Zone defenceA defensive system where each player guards an area of the court rather than a specific opponent.
- Serve and volleyAn attacking tennis tactic where the server follows their serve to the net to finish the point with a volley.
- Wing playAttacking down the flanks and crossing the ball into the box to stretch the defence and create chances.