Butler Sideline Out of Bounds (SLOB) Dribble Handoff Play

Very simple sideline out play that is essentially a give an go hand off between the inbounder and the 5. Saw Butler run this SLOB under Brad Stevens against Purdue a few years ago.

Executing a clean sideline out-of-bounds (SLOB) play can be the difference between a frustrating turnover and a quick, easy bucket. One highly effective and simple strategy to add to your basketball playbook is the Sideline Dribble Handoff (DHO) play, famously utilized by Brad Stevens during his successful tenure coaching the Butler Bulldogs.

During a memorable matchup against Purdue a few years ago, Butler ran this exact SLOB play to catch the man-to-man defense completely off guard. At its core, this play is essentially a quick give-and-go handoff between the inbounder (Player 3) and the center (Player 5).

If you are a basketball coach looking for a reliable, easy-to-teach man set to generate quick offense, this Butler SLOB is a must-have.

Step-by-Step Play Breakdown

Based on the playbook animation, here is exactly how to run the Butler Sideline Out DHO:

Step 1: The Setup (0:00)
- Player 3 (the inbounder) stands on the sideline with the basketball.
- Player 1 is positioned out near half-court as a safety outlet.
- Player 2 starts at the center of the free-throw line.
- Players 4 and 5 begin on the right and left low blocks, respectively.
Step 2: Clearing Space & Flashing High (0:01)
- Player 2 clears out of the high post area by dropping down towards the left low block.
- Simultaneously, Player 5 takes advantage of the vacated space, flashing hard from the low block up to the free-throw line/elbow area to present a clear passing target.
Step 3: The Inbound Pass (0:02)
- Player 3 passes the basketball safely inbounds to Player 5, who has now established position at the top of the key.
Step 4: The Give-and-Go DHO Action (Completion)
- Immediately after making the inbound pass, Player 3 steps onto the court and sprints directly toward Player 5.
- Player 5 executes a quick dribble handoff (DHO) right back to Player 3. Because Player 3 is coming off the handoff at full speed, they gain an immediate downhill advantage to attack the basket or create for others.

Why This SLOB Play Works

This play is incredibly effective because of its deceptive simplicity. By having your center (Player 5) flash high, you pull the opposing team’s rim protector away from the basket. The immediate give-and-go action then allows your inbounder to attack the paint with momentum before the defense has time to switch or recover.

Download the PDF of Butler – Sideline Out Dribble Handoff Play and view the animation here.