HPTFZ (ach pe te ef ze) noun. An acronym that stands for "hyperbolic, paraboloid, transitional, floating zone defense." It is a matchup zone that relies on long-limbed, versatile defensive players who can communicate effectively and adjust quickly to the changing shape of the offense. Each defensive player must cover a specific offensive player until that man leaves his area. The defenders must continuously pick up and switch, handing a man off if he goes away from the ball or staying with him if he goes toward the ball. The primary benefit to this strategy is that it limits penetration and inside play, forcing the opposing team to shoot a high percentage from the outside.

Usage example: The Pistons are killing the Bulls by using the HPTFZ defense.

Word History: The HPTFZ was invented by Detroit Pistons coach Flip Saunders prior to the 2001-2002 season, when zone defenses became legal in the NBA. Go here for the full story.

Labels: defense, Flip Saunders, Word of the Day