Definition
A buzz switch is a coordinated swap between two defenders — typically the marker and the dump defender — at the moment of a Give-and-Go. Instead of chasing the original thrower as they cut for the return, the marker stays on the disc; the dump defender picks up the cutting thrower. The defence "buzzes" the switch verbally so both players know it's on.
In Context
Buzz switching is the most common defensive counter to a heavy Give-and-Go team. By switching, the defence neutralises the thrower's momentum advantage — the original thrower's defender no longer has to recover, because someone else is taking that mark.
Our offensive answer to a buzz switch is built into Small Ball - Dribbling: when the defence buzzes, we recognise the swap and use a Cutback to create new space, then start a fresh Give-and-Go sequence from a different angle. The switch is only effective if the defence can keep doing it cleanly — and a switch chain breaks under the stress of a fast cutback.
If you are reading this from a defensive lens: the buzz switch only works with clear communication. A silent switch is a free cut for the offence, because both defenders end up on the wrong player.