What Is Lifting in Basketball? Understanding the Term and Its Impact
Lifting: Basketball is a game of movement, spacing, and timing. While some concepts are commonly discussed—like pick-and-rolls, isolations, and fast breaks—others are more subtle but equally important. One such term is “lifting”, a concept that plays a major role in modern offensive schemes.
Table of Contents
This article will break down the definition of lifting in basketball, when and how it’s used, examples of lifting in offensive plays, and how it affects overall gameplay.
What Does “Lifting” Mean in Basketball?
In basketball, lifting refers to an off-ball movement upward or toward the ball handler, usually along the perimeter. It is a spacing tactic designed to:
- Open passing lanes
- Clear help defenders
- Create better angles for drives and kicks
Think of a player in the corner lifting toward the wing or from the wing lifting toward the top of the key. This small movement can change how a defense rotates and is crucial in both set plays and improvisational offenses.
Comparison of Lifting vs Other Off-Ball Movements
| Movement Type | Direction | Primary Purpose | Typical User |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lifting | Toward top/perimeter | Improve spacing & passing angles | Wing/Corner shooters |
| Backdoor Cut | Toward basket | Beat overplay or exploit open paint | Guards/Slashers |
| Flare Cut | Away from ball | Create separation for a shot | Shooters |
| Down Screen Curl | Toward middle | Free up shooter near elbow | Guards/Wings |
Common Lifting Scenarios
Lifting is usually employed during dribble penetration or pick-and-roll actions to support the ball handler.
Scenario 1: Corner Lifting to Wing
- Opens the baseline drive
- Pulls the help defender up
- Creates a kick-out opportunity to the lifting player
Scenario 2: Wing Lifting to Top of Key
When a pick-and-roll occurs on the wing, the off-ball shooter on the opposite wing lifts to the top to:
- Balance the floor
- Give the ball handler an open reverse pass
- Space the defense away from the roller
Why Is Lifting Important in Modern Basketball?
With today’s emphasis on 3-point shooting, spacing is more valuable than ever. Lifting helps prevent defenders from camping in the paint, forces rotations, and creates late closeouts on shooters.
Benefits of Lifting in Offensive Play
| Benefit | Description |
|---|---|
| Enhances spacing | Clears clogged driving lanes |
| Creates open perimeter shots | Forces defenders to rotate or recover late |
| Punishes help defense | Helps stretch defenders out of help position |
| Aids drive-and-kick offense | Provides reliable outlets for penetrating guards |
| Makes defensive rotations harder | Causes defenders to chase moving shooters |
How Lifting Affects Defensive Schemes
When an offense lifts effectively, the defense is forced to:
- Communicate constantly
- Cover more ground
- Decide whether to help or stay home
Role of Lifting in Different Offensive Systems
Let’s examine how lifting is used in various offensive schemes.
1. Pick-and-Roll Heavy Offense
In teams that rely on the pick-and-roll, lifting is used to:
- Clear weak-side defenders
- Give the ball handler multiple outlets
- Prevent corner traps
2. Motion Offense
In motion-based systems, lifting keeps players moving and the ball alive by:
- Preventing stagnation
- Keeping defenders guessing
- Promoting inside-out play
3. Drive-and-Kick Systems
Here, lifting is crucial to:
- Space out the floor
- Give ball handlers wide-angle kickouts
- Punish collapsing defenses
Real-Game Example: NBA Context
Let’s say a guard like Stephen Curry is in the corner. As Draymond Green drives down the lane, Curry lifts toward the wing. Curry’s movement:
- Pulls his defender with him
- Prevents help defense from collapsing on Draymond
- Opens an easy pass for a catch-and-shoot 3
Result: 3 points instead of a contested layup.
Coaching Tips: Teaching Lifting
For Players:
- Read the drive: React quickly to a teammate’s penetration.
- Be aware of angles: Lift to a spot where a pass is possible.
- Stay in shooting stance: Be ready to catch and shoot.
For Coaches:
- Drill movement without the ball: Simulate drive-and-lift actions.
- Emphasize timing: Lifting too late or early kills spacing.
- Use film sessions: Show players how lifting creates points.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
| Mistake | Consequence |
|---|---|
| Lifting too early | Closes driving lane before the ball handler commits |
| Lifting too high | Reduces shooting percentage (too far from hoop) |
| Standing still in the corner | Allows defense to help without consequence |
| Miscommunication | Causes players to collide or duplicate movement |
Analytics Insight: Why Lifting Works
Statistical models show that offenses with more off-ball movement generate higher points per possession. Lifting creates 0.2–0.4 more points per possession in pick-and-roll plays when compared to static setups.
Reason: Lifting manipulates weak-side help, creating better-quality shots.
Summary Table: Key Concepts of Lifting
| Concept | Details |
|---|---|
| Definition | Off-ball movement upward to improve spacing |
| Used In | Pick-and-roll, drive-and-kick, motion offenses |
| Player Role | Mostly wings and corner shooters |
| Defensive Impact | Forces help defenders to commit early or stay out |
| Result | More open shots, better floor balance |
In modern basketball, lifting is a subtle yet game-changing off-ball movement. It doesn’t make the highlight reel, but it opens lanes, forces defensive decisions, and generates efficient offense. Whether you’re a coach teaching youth players, an analyst breaking down film, or a player looking to boost your basketball IQ, understanding lifting will elevate your game.
In the age of positionless basketball and spacing-based systems, mastering concepts like lifting isn’t optional—it’s essential.
