Nearly a decade ago, the Golden State Warriors set off a seismic shift in the NBA by introducing a defensive strategy that would go on to shape the league's future. This strategic acumen came to the fore during the 2015 postseason, propelling the Warriors toward becoming a basketball dynasty. What made people take notice was not just their fluid ball movement but also how they redefined defense.
In a pivotal second-round series against the Memphis Grizzlies, the Warriors deployed a novel approach by assigning center Andrew Bogut to guard Grizzlies' wing Tony Allen. On the surface, this seemed unconventional, given Allen's reputation as a defensive stalwart rather than a sharpshooter, highlighted by his career 28.2% average from three-point range. However, it was this very metric that the Warriors sought to exploit.
As the series unfolded, the Grizzlies initially took a 2-1 lead, casting doubt on the Warriors' game plan. However, the strategic decision to have Bogut step away from the basket to neutralize Allen’s offensive inadequacies paid dividends. Allen's playing time precipitously decreased from nearly 35 minutes per game to about 21 minutes over the final three encounters. This shift played a critical role in turning the tide as the Warriors mounted a successful comeback to win the series, setting them on a path to their first championship in 40 years.
This tactical decision reached beyond just that one moment, resonating throughout the NBA as teams began to understand and implement similar defensive switches. Fast forward to today, this strategic insight remains a template for top-tier teams aiming to find any edge over opponents.
Milwaukee Bucks' guard Jrue Holiday finds himself at a tactical crossroads reminiscent of that era. Recently, against the same Memphis team, Holiday chalked up a career-high in three-point attempts, firing 17 times from beyond the arc. Previously only exceeding 13 attempts on rare occasions, this offensive strategy raised eyebrows and hinted at deliberate planning by Milwaukee.
Guarding him, Jaren Jackson Jr. tried to quell Holiday's perimeter onslaught. Holiday sank just four of those 17 attempts, but the sheer volume of shots underscores a modern NBA that prioritizes long-range shots. This shift is a far cry from years past when two-point strategies dominated the landscape.
The Boston Celtics, known for their offensive prowess, have been pioneers in this new style of play. With a league-record efficiency last year, they are on track to attempt more three-pointers than two-pointers this season, boasting a scoring rate slightly above 1.2 points per possession. Yet, even with this high-powered offense, they recently stumbled against a revitalized Memphis team.
Holiday's performance offers an interesting case study in how shooting percentages can vary significantly based on defensive pressure. Since joining Milwaukee in the 2020-21 season, he has consistently shot over 40% from three, including a remarkable 42.4% on open attempts last season. However, this season, he is hitting 35.8% on wide-open shots, suggesting that even beneath the brightest lights and amidst advanced strategies, players' performances can fluctuate.
In reflecting on the ripple effects of the Warriors' 2015 defensive tactics, it's evident that what was once seen as innovative is now integrated into the fabric of today’s game. Teams continue to explore adjustments that maximize player strengths and target opponent weaknesses, a testament to the Warriors' enduring influence on the sport.
As the season progresses, the NBA remains a dynamic chessboard, with teams consistently seeking the ultimate combinations of personnel and strategy. Watching these developments unfold provides enthusiasts with compelling narratives, as each strategic decision has the potential to tip the scales. The legacy of the Warriors' approach to defense serves as a touchstone for many teams aiming to carve out their own slice of basketball history.