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Half-court or Set Offense.

When a team takes the time to develop a play in its frontcourt, such as the give-and-go or a screening play. Opposite of: Fast Break.

Half-court Press.

A defensive tactic that requires the defending team to guard its opponents as soon as the opposing team gets the ball into the frontcourt or when they cross the half-court line . Similar to the full-court press, it is fast-paced, swarming defense intended to create turnover or slow down an opponent.

Hand-check.

v. To use one or both hands, intermittently or continuously, on an opposing player, especially the ball handler.

Hand-checking.

n. A violation in which a defender uses his hand to impede a player's progress. A personal foul.

Hand-off Pass.

A crucial skill executed when two players are in close proximity to each other and one player moves or cuts by the ball handler who is in static or post position with his back to the basket. The hand-off pass is a must for post players who find space in advance of the defense, meet the ball and then hand off to a cutting player.

Hang Time.

The account of time a player can stay in the air while attempting a shot.

Hardwood.

n. A wooden Basketball court (e.g. "I can't wait to play on the hardwood").
adj. Term used to describe a wooden Basketball court (e.g. "I played there, it's got old-fashioned hardwood floors.")

Hashmark.

See: Midcourt Area Marker.