As you can see on the right, this is one simple offensive play we can use against a good defensive team. The 2 (shooting guard) cuts from corner to corner. The 5 (center) picks 2's defender. Then the 5, the 4 (power forward), and the 3 (small forward) are all set to get the rebound after the 1 (point guard) hits 2 for the open three-point shot.
To read ESPN.com analyst Fran Fraschilla's explanation of Syracuse's 2-3 zone, click here. The two guards play up front, circulating around the perimete and denying an open three-point look. The two forwards and center comprise the baseline defense, shifting from right baseline to left baseline as one. The "3" and "4" forwards are responsible for trapping in the corner. The key thing to keep in mind is that all defenders must be looking at the ball at all times, while staying in the 2-3 alignment.
Click here for explanation