Most of us non americans have the same problem. At least I've now seen 2 NBA games live and have some sort of idea how basketball works and roughly what sort of things each player is supposed to do.
The game is designed to let you play how you want .. My understanding of the game engine is that every tactic should have a good chance of succeeding if you have the right players for what you're trying to do. As Charles pointed out, the aim of the game design is to have, for example, different centers have an equal chance of success. So a good rebounding center would be good for one tactic, a good jump shot centre better for something else. Alternatively good passing players can make a successful offense by making easy chances, or good long range shooters should be equally successful, even though they take more difficult shots.
Here are some links to help you get started:
What sort of skills players need for offense
(http://www.guidetocoachingbasketball.com/offense.htm)An extensive guide to basketball tactics
(http://www.cybersportsusa.com/hooptactics/HoopTactics.asp)Edited 4/12/2007 2:29:44 PM by BB-Oxidus