Screening in basketball is a technique used to free up a teammate by blocking the defender, creating space for them to receive the ball or make a play. A well-executed screen can open up scoring opportunities. Here’s how to set an effective screen:
1. Positioning
– Stay Still: To set a legal screen, you must remain stationary. Moving or “picking” your opponent is considered a foul.
– Get Low: Bend your knees and lower your center of gravity. This helps you remain balanced and gives you a solid base to resist defenders trying to move around you.
– Proper Distance: Make sure you position yourself at an appropriate distance from your teammate. If you’re too close, the defender may still be able to fight through. If you’re too far, you won’t effectively block them.
2. Timing
– Wait for the Teammate: Timing is critical. Set the screen just as your teammate is coming toward you. If you set the screen too early or too late, it won’t be as effective.
– Stay Patient: Don’t rush the screen. Let your teammate get in the right position to use it effectively.
3. Angle
– Angle the Screen Properly: Position your body in the path of the defender so they must either go around you or be momentarily blocked. A screen set at an angle, typically at a 45-degree angle to the defender, works best.
– Use Your Body: You want to present your body as a solid obstacle. Try to make yourself as wide as possible without moving your feet.
4. Contact
– Set the Screen with Your Body: Don’t reach out with your hands or arms to create contact. Your feet should remain planted, and you should use your torso to make contact. This minimizes the chance of drawing an offensive foul.
– No Pushing: Avoid pushing your defender; this is considered illegal and will result in a foul.
5. After the Screen
– Roll or Pop: After setting the screen, either roll toward the basket (known as a pick-and-roll) or pop out to the perimeter (known as a pick-and-pop) to receive the ball or continue your play.
– Be Ready: Always be alert to what your teammate is doing after you set the screen. They may need your help again or may pass the ball back to you after the defender is momentarily blocked.
6. Screen Types
– On-Ball Screen: This is the most common type where a teammate uses the screen while handling the ball.
– Off-Ball Screen: When you set a screen for a teammate without the ball, often to free them for a shot or cut to the basket.
– Back Screen: Set behind the defender to help your teammate make a cut to the basket.
– Down Screen: A screen set below the player you’re helping, often used to help shooters get open.
7. Communication
– Verbal and Non-Verbal Cues: In a team setting, communicate with your teammates about when and where you’re setting screens. This can be done with hand signals or verbal cues to make sure everyone is on the same page.
Screening is a fundamental part of basketball that, when executed well, can significantly improve offensive flow and create open opportunities. Practice is key to becoming an effective screener.
