Démarques

Démarques refers to the act of creating space or separation from an opponent in sports, particularly in team sports like basketball, soccer, and hockey. It is a fundamental offensive tactic that allows a player to receive a pass, shoot, or advance the ball. This maneuver involves a player moving strategically to get open, often by outmaneuvering or eluding their defender.

Common techniques for creating a démarque include sharp cuts, changes in direction, screening, and utilizing the movement of teammates. A player might use a quick burst of speed to get ahead of their defender or a sudden stop and change of pace to create separation. Setting screens, where a teammate positions themselves to impede the defender's path, is another effective way to generate a démarque. The goal is to become "open" or "free" from defensive pressure, making it easier to execute the next action.

Successful démarques depend on good timing, anticipation, and understanding of the game's flow. It requires players to read defensive positioning and react accordingly. A well-executed démarque not only benefits the player creating the space but also opens up opportunities for their teammates by drawing defenders away from other areas of the court or field. It is a continuous process throughout a game, crucial for maintaining offensive momentum and creating scoring chances.