Last Updated on: 3rd August 2023, 10:43 pm
What Is A Basketball Screen?
A basketball screen, also known as a pick or pick-and-roll, is a fundamental offensive strategy in basketball where one player sets a screen for a teammate to create space for them to receive a pass, drive to the basket, or take a shot.
The player setting the screen, known as the screener, stands in the path of the defender guarding the player with the ball, known as the ball handler. The screener then contacts the defender, creating a barrier that slows them down or forces them to change direction. This allows the ball handler to either drive to the basket or take a shot, or pass the ball to an open teammate who has been freed up by the screen.
The pick-and-roll is a common screen variation, where the screener rolls towards the basket after setting the screen, creating another scoring opportunity for themselves or a teammate. The screen is a versatile offensive tool that can be used in various situations, from isolating a player in a one-on-one matchup to creating open shots for multiple players.
Types Of Basketball Screens
Players can use several types of basketball screens to create space and opportunities on the court. Here are some of the most common types of screens:
- Ball Screen: This is the most common type of screen in basketball, where the screener sets a screen for the ball handler to create space for them to drive to the basket or take a shot.
- Down Screen: In this type of screen, the screener sets a screen for a teammate moving toward the baseline or the corner of the court. This is often used to create open shots for perimeter players.
- Back Screen: This is when the screener sets a screen for a teammate cutting toward the basket from the perimeter. This can create a scoring opportunity for the cutter or draw defenders away from other players.
- Flare Screen: In this type of screen, the screener sets a screen for a teammate moving away from the ball, toward the perimeter. This can create space for the player to receive a pass and take an open shot.
- Cross Screen: This is when the screener sets a screen for a teammate moving across the court, often toward the basket. This can create a scoring opportunity for the cutter or draw defenders away from other players.
- Slip Screen: This is a variation of the ball screen, where the screener sets a screen but then quickly slips toward the basket before the defender can react. This can create an open scoring opportunity for the screener.
These are just a few examples of the different types of screens that basketball players can use to create space and opportunities on the court. Each type of screen requires different skills and strategies, and can be effective in different situations.
Basketball Screen Drills
Basketball screen drills are an important part of any team’s practice routine, as they help players develop the skills and coordination needed to execute screens effectively during games. Here are some basketball screen drills that coaches and players can use to improve their screen-setting and screen-using abilities:
- 2-on-2 Screen Drill: In this drill, two offensive players set screens for each other while two defenders try to stop them. The offensive players must communicate effectively and use proper footwork to set and use screens effectively.
- Circle Screen Drill: This drill involves four offensive players forming a circle around a defender, with one player setting a screen for another to cut toward the basket. The other two offensive players must be ready to receive a pass or set a screen if necessary.
- Screen and Roll Drill: This drill focuses on the pick-and-roll, with one offensive player setting a screen for another and then rolling toward the basket. The ball handler must read the defense and make the right decision, either passing to the roller or taking a shot.
- Screen and Pop Drill: This is a variation of the screen and roll, where the screener “pops” out to the perimeter instead of rolling towards the basket. This can create an open shot opportunity for the screener.
- Screen and Slip Drill: This drill focuses on the slip screen, where the screener sets a screen but then quickly slips toward the basket before the defender can react. The ball handler must be ready to pass to the screener for an open shot.
These are just a few examples of the many basketball screen drills that coaches and players can use to improve their skills and coordination. By practicing these drills regularly, players can become more effective at setting and using screens, which can lead to more scoring opportunities and better team performance on the court.
What Is A Moving Screen In Basketball?
A moving screen in basketball occurs when an offensive player sets a screen on a defender while moving. This is a violation of the rules, as screens must be set while the screener is stationary and in a legal position.
A moving screen is typically called by the referee when the screener is still moving as the defender makes contact with them, or when the screener moves to impede the defender’s movement. This can result in a turnover or a foul against the offensive player, depending on the severity of the infraction.
Moving screens can be a common issue in basketball, as players may try to gain an advantage by setting screens while moving. However, it is important for players to understand the rules and execute screens properly in order to avoid committing this violation. Proper screen-setting technique involves establishing a legal position, making contact with the defender, and holding the screen until the ball handler has passed by.
