What to remember

  • The screener must establish legal position.
  • The ball handler should set up the defender.
  • Use the screen closely enough to create an advantage.
  • Spacing gives the action room.

01

Set a legal screen

The screener arrives under control, establishes a stable position, and gives required time and distance when screening outside an opponent's field of vision. The screener cannot lean, extend, or move into contact illegally.

Rules differ by level, so coaches should teach the exact legal standard. Safety and balance come before creating contact.

02

Set up and use the screen

  1. Ball handler dribbles away or changes pace to move the defender.
  2. Screener communicates and arrives at a useful angle.
  3. Ball handler brings the defender close to the screen.
  4. Use a shoulder-to-shoulder path without colliding with the screener.
  5. Keep the eyes on the paint, roll, and help defenders.

03

Roll into open space

After the screen, the screener opens toward the basket and presents a target while staying in balance. The exact turn depends on angle and defensive coverage.

Do not roll blindly into a teammate. Other offensive players must preserve space in corners, wings, or opposite areas.

04

Use three beginner reads

  1. If the lane is open, the ball handler drives under control.
  2. If the screener is open, deliver a pass away from reaching hands.
  3. If help crowds both players, pass to the open teammate created by the help.
  4. If no advantage appears, keep the ball safe and reset.

Avoid these

Common beginner mistakes

  • Setting a moving or leaning screen.
  • Using the screen too far away.
  • Looking down during the action.
  • Rolling into occupied space.
  • Forcing the pass when help has closed the lane.

Try this next

Two-on-zero to two-on-two

18 minutes
  1. Walk through screen angle and legal stance.
  2. Add the ball handler's setup dribble.
  3. Practice drive and roll-pass reads without defense.
  4. Add one guided defender.
  5. Finish with short two-on-two possessions.

Score it: Award one point for a legal screen and one for the correct read.

Beginner questions

What is the pick in pick and roll?

Pick is another word for a screen. A teammate legally blocks or redirects the defender's path by establishing position.

Does the screener always roll to the basket?

No. Depending on space and skill, the screener may roll, slip early, or move away for a shot. Beginners should first learn the basic roll and spacing.

Sources and further learning

We use official basketball organizations for rules, standards, and instructional references. Always confirm the current rules for your league.