When a squad is outmatched, they need to play the game better than the opponent. The simplest way to do so is to create continuous movement: not only the ball but the people on the court as well. When C.S.K.A. Moscow led the Toronto Raptors at halftime during a 2008 exhibition game, it was not entirely due to the Raptors’ poor skill level; the Euroleague Champions Cup holders never stopped moving. The patterns were simple but ceaseless (flex, pass/screen away, and other basic sets). C.S.K.A. ran their offence throughout the shot clock until Toronto committed an error.
On the pick-up court, selfishness abounds. Against a tough opponent, it is difficult to create opportunities. Defensive pressure forces mistakes which lead to frustration. The solution is not to stand still and stop working. It is a saying oft-repeated but the disadvantaged player must try even harder.
Slowing the play down and running association-like isos accomplishes nothing. Forcing indiscriminate drives off the glass will not result in points. Passing and cutting will eventually lead to a human error and the faster tempo will make the game an athletic contest, evening things out.