5-Out Motion (Pass, Cut, Replace)
Teach spacing and constant movement with one simple rule: pass, cut to the basket, then replace the open spot.
What this drill teaches
A whole team offence built from one repeatable rule: pass, cut, replace. Because everyone follows the same rule, kids learn spacing and movement as a system, not memorised plays — the floor stays balanced no matter who has the ball.
In games: Replaces the game-day swarm-around-the-ball with organised, unselfish offence — an open key for cutters and drivers, and a team that doesn't collapse when one player is guarded.
- A hard basket cut after every single pass, no exceptions
- The vacated spot filled within a couple of seconds
- The middle of the floor kept empty until a cutter uses it
U12: walk it with no defence — expect forgotten cuts and unfilled spots for weeks. U16: expect live play with back cuts punishing overplays.
Equipment
1 ball, half court
Setup
Five players spaced around the three-point arc — two corners, two wings, one up top. Nobody stands in the middle.
Steps
- 1Pass to a teammate.
- 2Cut hard to the basket, looking for a return pass (give-and-go).
- 3If you don't get it, clear out to an open spot.
- 4The nearest player replaces the spot you left — always stay 5-out.
- 5Repeat: pass, cut, replace, over and over.
Coaching points
- Keep big gaps — space the floor.
- Cut with purpose every single time you pass.
- Fill the open spot so the team is always balanced.
- Move the ball side to side, don't hold it.
Why kids love it
It looks and feels like real team basketball, and the simple 'pass-cut-replace' rule gives even young teams organised, unselfish offence.
Variations
Walk through it with no defence until the pattern is automatic.
Add defenders and play live, or require 5 passes before a shot counts.
Add one rule: if your defender overplays the pass, cut behind them to the rim instead of receiving it.