Relocate
When a player moves from one perimeter spot to a new, more advantageous position, deliberately finding gaps in the defense's rotation.
When It's Used
When the defense rotates to cover the roll man or cutter, perimeter players relocate to spots where help defenders came from.
What It Creates
Finds gaps in the defense's rotation, puts the player in position for an open shot, more proactive than drifting.
About This Action
Relocating is a sophisticated off-ball spacing technique where an offensive player, typically on the perimeter, deliberately moves from their current position to a new, more advantageous spot, specifically exploiting a void created by defensive rotations. Unlike systematic 'filling' (moving to a pre-determined spot) or passive 'drifting' (reacting without specific intent), relocation is an 'IQ' play requiring a keen understanding of defensive principles and anticipation. The primary cue for a perimeter player to relocate is a defensive helper committing to a primary action, such as 'tagging' a roll man on a pick-and-roll, digging down on a post-up, or helping off the strong-side corner against a dribble-drive penetration. The essence of relocation lies in identifying where a help defender *came from* and moving proactively into that vacated space. For instance, if a defender guarding the weak-side corner collapses to 'tag' a rolling big man, the corner offensive player doesn't simply stay put; they might relocate to the slot above, or even the strong-side wing if the defense has overcommitted elsewhere, seeking a clear passing lane and an uncontested shot opportunity. This movement forces the defense into continuous, often belated, rotations, commonly necessitating a 'skip-pass' across the court or a rapid 'touch-pass' to exploit the newly formed gap. The objective is to put the relocating player in a prime 'catch-and-shoot' position, thereby punishing defensive over-help and maintaining offensive flow. Relocation is a critical component of modern offensive schemes, particularly those emphasizing 'dribble-drive' penetration and dynamic spacing. It forms a crucial link in a common offensive chain: a 'dribble-drive' draws help, prompting a 'tag' by a weak-side defender, which then triggers the 'relocate' by that defender's assignment. This leads to a 'skip-pass' from the driver, culminating in a 'catch-and-shoot' opportunity. Executed correctly, it capitalizes on defensive indecision and commitment, turning a successful defensive help action into an offensive advantage.