Late game Dunk for the Celtics

This clip comes from Celtics vs OKC on March 8th, 2020.

This is a simple play but certain parts/actions had to fall into line for it be executed well. Even though the Celtics score here, they would go onto lose the game by 1.

Take a look at the video and diagram first:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1bVDMlpJ9fU

Breakdown:

1. This does give the Celtics a few looks

2. First if Kemba moved a bit quicker you might have had an open layup after curling around Theis. It also looks like he go a bit held up coming over the screen. And maybe Hayward's man would be able to get there on the help

3. After the inbound, Smart goes to set a down screen. As soon as Theis swings to Hayward, he goes to set a stagger. However, he is very quick to turn around to set a ball screen for Hayward.

4. Theis rolls is wide open for the dunk

Reasons this worked:

1. Tatum and Kemba are basically diversions in this situation. They both are basically in the corner the whole time. Tatum doesn't even move.

2. Having everyone outside the 3pt line gives the Celtics to ability to judge real quick how OKC is going to play the corners. Since they hug up on Tatum and Kemba, this gives them the spacing they are looking for.

3. Theis does a great job of selling the stagger to throw off the defender.

4. Hayward does the right thing and still goes towards the defense and not away. Moving away would mean he has to make a longer pass and gives the defense more time to react. By going towards the basket, even just for a few inches, helps him with the pass and dunk

5. Back to Tatum and Kemba. Since they are both threats from the corner and 3, OKC didn't want to leave them any room. This works extremely well for the Celtics. By keeping them in the corner and having Smart set a pin down, it distracts OKC enough to leaves the paint wide open. There is no help and little time to recover.

The spacing and defensive coverage played a major role in execution. Also, the three players not involved in the action. Smart's pin down on Kemba leaves enough to the imagination that if he gets open he is taking the shot. Enough can't be said about the actions of players not directly involved in a play. Any slip up or lack of focus could have changed the outcome of this EOG situation.