If the defense shows a two-guard front (e.g. 2-3 zone - diagram A), use a one-guard offense to "split" the two top defenders. Offensive sets to use are: 1-3-1, 1-2-2, 3-out 2-in, or 1-4 offense. See 2-3 Zone Offense. The opposite applies if the defense shows a one-guard front (e.g. 1-3-1 or 1-2-2 zone).

The 'Trilogy' 1-3-1 offense is a basic continuity you can use against any 2-3 zone defense. It's simple enough that it can be used by young and inexperienced teams... But will also work for older and more experienced teams who understand and can take advantage of the spacing and angles that this 1-3-1 offense creates.

Approaching the zone with a one-pass-shot, or ball-reversal-shot, gets the defense off the hook. Another key to combatting the zone is movement. Many times, the offensive players stand around and the zone shifts with each pass. The offense occupies set positions during the possession in hopes of finding an opening.