The Golden State Warriors’ Split Action: A Masterclass in Offensive Versatility - By Marvin Bayer

Unleashing Scoring Opportunities with Precision and Movement

The Golden State Warriors’ "split" action, often referred to as post split action, is a dynamic offensive play that capitalises on the team’s elite shooting and seamless passing to create high-percentage scoring opportunities. Designed to exploit defensive decision-making, this play opens up shots for sharpshooters like Stephen Curry and Klay Thompson while creating lanes for cutters and bigs to attack the rim. Below, we break down the mechanics, key concepts, and why this play is a cornerstone of the Warriors’ offensive dominance.

Credit: The Film Room

How the Split Action Works

Post Entry

The play starts with a precise pass into the low post, setting the stage for the action. This entry draws defensive attention to the post player, forcing the defence to make critical choices.

Screen Away

After making the entry pass, the passer immediately sets a screen for the nearest perimeter player. This screen creates confusion, as defenders must decide whether to switch, fight through, or help on the post.

Split

The two players involved in the screen "split" apart. The player using the screen can either come off it for a jump shot or reject it to cut toward the basket, exploiting defensive positioning.

Shooting Opportunities

The split action frequently generates open catch-and-shoot looks for players like Curry and Thompson, whose shooting prowess thrives in these scenarios. Alternatively, it opens the lane for a big man to slip to the basket for an easy layup or dunk.

Defensive Reactions

Defenders often struggle with the split action because their instinct to help on the low post leaves them vulnerable to the player coming off the screen or the cutter. This hesitation creates mismatches and open shots, making the play difficult to counter.

Variations and Key Concepts

Slipping the Screen

Instead of setting a firm screen, the screener can slip to the basket, catching the defence off-guard and creating a quick scoring opportunity near the rim.

Backdoor Cuts

If the defence overplays the screen, the player coming off it can execute a backdoor cut to the basket, exploiting overzealous defenders for an easy score.

Flare Screens

The initial screener can pivot to set a flare screen for another perimeter player, creating additional shooting opportunities or forcing further defensive rotations.

Double Drag Action

In some variations, the Warriors employ a double drag screen to set up Curry for the split action, adding layers of complexity that amplify his ability to find open shots.

Why It Works

The split action is a hallmark of the Warriors’ offence because it leverages their exceptional shooting, pinpoint passing, and basketball IQ. By forcing defenders to make split-second decisions, the play creates mismatches, open shots, and cutting lanes. Its versatility allows it to adapt to different defensive schemes, making it a go-to weapon for generating high-percentage scoring opportunities.

Whether it’s Curry draining a three, Thompson hitting a mid-range jumper, or a big man finishing at the rim, the split action embodies the Warriors’ philosophy of movement, precision, and teamwork. It’s a play that keeps defences guessing and fans on the edge of their seats, cementing its place as one of the most effective offensive strategies in modern basketball.

Extra Tips for Players

To excel in executing the split action, players can incorporate these practical tips into their training and gameplay:

1. Master Timing: Coordinate your movements with the ball handler and screener. Start your cut or screen as the post entry pass is made to maximise defensive confusion.

2. Read the Defender: Watch your defender’s positioning. If they overcommit to the post or ball, use a backdoor cut or slip to exploit their mistake.

3. Practice Quick Decisions: Train to decide instantly whether to shoot, cut, or pass based on the defence’s reaction. Hesitation can close the window of opportunity.

4. Improve Screen Technique: Set solid, legal screens to free up teammates. Angle your body to impede the defender while avoiding fouls.

5. Stay Ready to Shoot: Perimeter players should always be prepared for a catch-and-shoot opportunity, keeping feet set and hands ready for a quick release.

6. Communicate Non-Verbally: Use eye contact or subtle gestures to signal your intent to teammates, ensuring smooth execution of cuts or slips.

7. Condition for Speed: The split action thrives in transition, so build stamina and sprint speed to maintain effectiveness throughout the game.

By honing these skills, players can maximise the split action’s potential, creating dynamic scoring opportunities and keeping the defence on its heels.