An “iso” play in basketball involves isolating one player, usually the best scorer, while teammates clear out to create a one-on-one scoring opportunity. The wing is the most common iso spot, but it can be executed from anywhere on the court. Since creating a high-percentage shot in isolation is challenging, it’s typically reserved for highly skilled players with strong ball-handling, footwork, and finishing abilities. Effective iso plays require quick decision-making, superior offensive skills, and the ability to break down defenders without team assistance.
4 Keys to Being an Effective Iso Player
Here’s how coaches can help their players learn to be effective in isolation plays:
a. 1-on-1 Drills
Isolations focus on creating space and using quick moves to beat the defender. One effective way to improve this skill is through 1-on-1 drills, like “King of the Court,” where players battle it out in isolation. By adding limitations, such as restricting dribbles to just four, players learn to make quick decisions and execute more efficiently. These drills mirror game scenarios, improving both offensive skills and the ability to break down defenders under pressure, key for effective isolation play.
b. Footwork Drills
Beating a defender 1-on-1 often relies on excellent footwork. Skills like the triple threat, jab steps, pivoting, and rip-throughs are essential in creating separation and gaining an advantage. Strong footwork gives players more control and flexibility in isolation situations, making it easier to get past defenders. One drill I highly recommend to develop footwork is the Tates Locke Box Drill, which helps improve agility, balance, and the ability to react quickly to defenders, enhancing a player’s overall isolation game.
c. Ball-Handling Drills
A strong ball handle is crucial for breaking down defenders and driving to the hoop. Incorporating ball-handling drills into your practice routine is essential for developing control, agility, and confidence in isolation situations. Drills like dribbling through cones, crossovers, and behind-the-back moves help improve dribbling under pressure. A solid handle ensures that a player can maintain possession, create space, and make quick decisions when attacking the basket. Be sure to practice both hands to become a versatile threat in 1-on-1 situations.
d. Decision Making
Absolutely, decision-making is critical in isolation plays. The ability to read the defense and react accordingly separates great players from the rest. When double-teamed, the player must be able to recognize the situation and make the right pass to an open teammate. If forced to the weak hand, a skilled player can still use footwork, quickness, and ball-handling to maneuver past the defender. Effective decision-making ensures that isolation plays don’t only rely on individual skill, but also on understanding when to pass, when to attack, and when to take control of the game.
5 Best Isolation Scorers Ever
To become an effective isolation player, one of the best strategies is to study the all-time greats who excel in this area. The five players listed below are masters at creating space, reading their opponents, and generating quality scoring opportunities, even in challenging situations.
1. Michael Jordan
Michael Jordan is widely regarded as the greatest basketball player of all time. His isolation scoring ability was unmatched, as he could dominate from every area of the floor. Whether driving to the basket, hitting mid-range jumpers, or creating space for a fadeaway, Jordan’s skill in one-on-one situations made him a constant threat to any defender.
2. Kobe Bryant
Kobe Bryant, like Michael Jordan, was a master in isolation situations. His footwork, combined with a deadly mix of fadeaways, step-backs, and aggressive drives, made him nearly impossible to guard. Bryant’s ability to read the defense and create space, along with his unshakable confidence, allowed him to thrive in 1-on-1 scenarios, making him one of the most lethal isolation players in basketball history.
3. Allen Iverson
Allen Iverson, despite being a smaller guard, was a nightmare for defenders in isolation. His iconic crossover dribble, especially against legends like Michael Jordan, became a defining move of his career. Iverson’s quickness, agility, and fearless attitude allowed him to break down defenders and create shots for himself in tight spaces. His ability to score in isolation situations, combined with his relentless drive, cemented his place as one of the most dynamic 1-on-1 players in NBA history.
4. Kevin Durant
Kevin Durant, standing at 7 feet tall with point guard-level handles and an elite jump shot, is a matchup nightmare in isolation. His ability to create his own shot from anywhere on the floor, combined with his length and skill, makes him nearly impossible to defend. Whether it’s a step-back jumper or driving past defenders, Durant’s versatility in iso situations sets him apart as one of the most unguardable players in the NBA. His unique skill set allows him to exploit mismatches and score efficiently in one-on-one situations.
5. James Harden
James Harden is renowned for his step-back jumper, but his ball-handling is what truly sets him apart. His ability to control the game with precise dribbling allows him to create shots for himself and break down defenders in isolation. Harden’s combination of craftiness, footwork, and scoring ability makes him one of the best isolation players ever. Whether it’s driving to the rim or hitting a three-pointer, Harden’s offensive versatility in one-on-one situations keeps defenders on their heels, making him a constant threat.