In basketball, the “horn set” refers to a specific offensive formation or play that is commonly used by teams. It is named after the shape that the players form on the court, resembling the shape of a horn.
The horn set typically involves two players stationed at the elbows (the areas on the free-throw line extended on both sides of the key) and three players positioned along the baseline. The players at the elbows are often referred to as the “horns,” while the players along the baseline are known as the “corners” and the “wings.”
The primary objective of the horn set is to create spacing and open up scoring opportunities for the offense. It provides several options for the team to execute various plays or initiate offensive actions. Here are a few common strategies employed from the horn set:
1. Pick-and-Roll: The horns can set screens for the ball handler, who then has the option to drive to the basket or pass to the rolling big men or shooters in the corners.
2. Dribble Handoff: One of the horns receives a handoff from the ball handler, who then rolls or cuts to the basket, while the other horn moves to a different position to create movement and confuse the defense.
3. Double Staggered Screens: The horns set screens for the guards or wings in the corners, who can either use the screens to get open for a jump shot or drive to the basket.
4. High-Low Action: The horns can pass the ball to each other at the elbows, looking for opportunities to feed the ball inside to the low post player or cutters moving towards the basket.
The horn set provides versatility and flexibility in offensive play calling, allowing teams to adapt and exploit defensive weaknesses. The spacing created by the players’ positioning allows for better ball movement, player movement, and scoring opportunities.
It’s important to note that while the horn set is a popular offensive formation, teams use various other sets and formations depending on their personnel, coaching strategies, and game situations. The horn set is just one of many offensive options teams have in their playbook.