Explainer: How to run a 4-out, 1-In motion offense

• 4-out, 1-in motion offense works against man-to-man and zone
• It requires good floor spacing and movement off the ball
• It's an excellent offense for teams that want a balance approached to scoring

The four-out, one-in (4-out, 1-in) offense is a perimeter-oriented offensive system where four players position themselves around the three-point line while one player operates inside the paint or near the low post. This offensive setup is commonly used at all levels of basketball due to its spacing, movement, and versatility.

Basic Formation

• Four perimeter players are stationed around the three-point line (typically two wings, a point guard, and a player in the slot or corner).
• One post player stays inside the paint or at the low block, acting as the primary inside scoring option.

Key Actions in the 4-Out, 1-In Offense

1. Ball Movement & Spacing
   • The perimeter players pass the ball quickly around the arc to create movement and shift the defense.
   • Players maintain spacing to avoid crowding the driving lanes and allow cutters to operate.
2. Dribble Penetration & Kick-Outs
   • Guards and wings are encouraged to drive into the paint to collapse the defense.
   • Once the defense collapses, they can kick out to an open shooter or dump the ball to the post player.
3. Post Play & Inside-Out Action
   • The post player establishes position near the block and looks for scoring opportunities.
   • If the post player is doubled, they can pass back out to a shooter or cutter.
4. Cutting & Off-Ball Movement
   • Perimeter players use basket cuts, backdoor cuts, and off-ball screens to get open looks.
   • The post player can set screens for perimeter players to create shot opportunities.
5. Pick-and-Roll Opportunities
   • The post player sets screens for perimeter players, leading to pick-and-roll or pick-and-pop actions.
   • This action forces defenders into tough decisions, creating mismatches.

Advantages of the 4-Out, 1-In Offense

✅ 1. Excellent Floor Spacing

• Creates driving lanes for guards to penetrate and attack the rim.
• Forces defenders to cover more ground, making it harder to provide help defense.

✅ 2. Enhances Dribble Penetration

• Guards can attack one-on-one matchups without immediate congestion in the paint.
• Collapsing defenders lead to kick-out opportunities for open three-point shooters.

✅ 3. Maximises Perimeter Shooting

• Spacing provides better three-point shot opportunities.
• Allows teams with multiple shooters to spread the floor and stretch defenses.

✅ 4. Utilises a Skilled Post Player

• The inside player has more room to operate in the paint without congestion.
• Forces the defense to choose between guarding the perimeter or helping inside.

✅ 5. Works Well Against Zone & Man Defenses

• The offense stretches zone defenses, creating open passing lanes.
• Forces man defenses into tough one-on-one situations.

✅ 6. Adaptable for Any Team

• Works for teams with skilled guards, strong post players, or multiple shooters.
• Can be modified for motion offense, dribble-drive, or screen-heavy play.

Disadvantages of the 4-Out, 1-In Offense

❌ 1. Requires Skilled Shooters

• Without consistent perimeter shooting, defenders can sag off and clog the paint.

❌ 2. Can Be Ineffective Without a Strong Post Player

• If the inside player isn’t a scoring threat, defenses won’t collapse inside.
• Post players who struggle with passing out of double teams can lead to turnovers.

❌ 3. Vulnerable to Defensive Pressure

• Defenses that apply high ball pressure can disrupt passing and force turnovers.
• Without strong ball-handlers, offense can stagnate.

❌ 4. Less Effective Against Aggressive Zone Defenses

• Against extended zone defenses, perimeter players may struggle to create inside scoring.
• Requires quick ball movement and precise cutting to beat zones.

❌ 5. Can Lead to One-Dimensional Play

• Teams that rely too much on perimeter shooting may struggle if shots aren’t falling.
• If players don’t attack the basket enough, defenses won’t respect drives.

Who Should Use the 4-Out, 1-In Offense?

✅ Teams with strong perimeter shooters who can stretch the defense.
✅ Teams with a dominant post player who can score inside and pass out of double teams.
✅ Teams that want a balanced approach between inside and outside scoring.
✅ Teams that play fast-paced offense and rely on ball movement.

Who Should Avoid the 4-Out, 1-In Offense?

❌ Teams without perimeter shooters (defenses can collapse inside).
❌ Teams without a skilled post player who can finish inside.
❌ Teams that struggle with ball movement and passing under pressure.

The 4-Out, 1-In offense is an effective system that balances perimeter shooting, dribble penetration, and inside scoring. It maximises spacing, encourages ball movement, and works well for modern basketball styles. However, it requires skilled shooters, a capable post player, and disciplined spacing to work effectively.