EP183: Understanding the 1 Can't Guard 2 Dominoes Principle

In this episode, George takes a closer look at two weak-side cutting principles—the cut and slide and the slot cut and how they connect to the idea of the "dominoes rule": one defender can't guard two players. Using NBA examples and small-sided games, George explores how these principles create passing windows, stretch the defense, and give players opportunities to attack advantages. He also shares an excerpt from a conversation with Alex Sarama about adapting these concepts based on defensive coverages and using off-ball actions to optimize player positioning.

Link to Episode EP169: Alex Sarama on Principles of Play and his Coaching Journey - https://open.spotify.com/episode/6K1R3SFpWiAnT56oyb9pRN

Chapters:

00:00 – Introduction to weak-side cutting principles

00:38 – Understanding the cut and slide

01:00 – Creating defensive dilemmas with the cut and slide

01:34 – Using cutting principles to create passing windows

02:16 – Applying cut and slide in small-sided games

03:04 – Introducing the slot cut and lift

03:20 – Stretching the defense and creating two-on-one situations

03:43 – Using the slot cut against different defenses

04:30 – Exploring the slot cut through small-sided games