What To Know
- The pick and roll is a two-man play that involves a ball handler (usually a guard) and a screener (usually a big man).
- Switching is a defensive strategy in which the defender guarding the ball handler switches onto the screener, and the defender guarding the screener switches onto the ball handler.
- Hedging is a defensive strategy in which the defender guarding the screener steps out to meet the ball handler, while the defender guarding the ball handler drops back to guard the screener.
Basketball is a game of strategy, skill, and teamwork. One of the most effective offensive plays in basketball is the pick and roll, a simple yet devastating play that can create scoring opportunities for any team. If you’re looking to improve your basketball game, mastering the pick and roll is a great place to start.
Understanding the Pick and Roll
The pick and roll is a two-man play that involves a ball handler (usually a guard) and a screener (usually a big man). The ball handler dribbles towards the basket while the screener sets a screen on the defender guarding the ball handler. The screener then rolls towards the basket, creating a pick-and-roll situation.
Benefits of the Pick and Roll
The pick and roll is a versatile play that can be used to create a variety of scoring opportunities. Some of the benefits of running the pick and roll include:
- Creating mismatches: The pick and roll can create mismatches between the ball handler and the defender guarding the screener. This can lead to easy scoring opportunities for the ball handler.
- Opening up driving lanes: The pick and roll can open up driving lanes for the ball handler. This can allow the ball handler to get to the basket for a layup or dunk.
- Creating passing lanes: The pick and roll can create passing lanes for the ball handler. This can allow the ball handler to pass the ball to an open teammate for a shot.
How to Run the Pick and Roll
Running the pick and roll effectively requires teamwork and communication between the ball handler and the screener. Here are the steps on how to run the pick and roll:
1. Set the Screen: The screener should set a solid screen on the defender guarding the ball handler. The screen should be set at a 45-degree angle, with the screener’s body facing the defender.
2. Roll to the Basket: After setting the screen, the screener should roll towards the basket. The screener should roll hard and fast, creating a pick-and-roll situation.
3. Attack the Basket: The ball handler should attack the basket as soon as the screener sets the screen. The ball handler can either drive to the basket for a layup or dunk, or pass the ball to an open teammate.
Variations of the Pick and Roll
There are many different variations of the pick and roll. Some of the most common variations include:
- High Pick and Roll: In the high pick and roll, the screen is set at the top of the key. This variation is often used to create mismatches between the ball handler and the defender guarding the screener.
- Low Pick and Roll: In the low pick and roll, the screen is set near the basket. This variation is often used to create easy scoring opportunities for the ball handler.
- Side Pick and Roll: In the side pick and roll, the screen is set on the side of the court. This variation is often used to create passing lanes for the ball handler.
Defending the Pick and Roll
Defending the pick and roll can be challenging, but there are a few strategies that can be used to stop the play. Some of the most common defensive strategies against the pick and roll include:
- Switching: Switching is a defensive strategy in which the defender guarding the ball handler switches onto the screener, and the defender guarding the screener switches onto the ball handler. This can be an effective strategy if the defenders are able to communicate and switch quickly.
- Hedging: Hedging is a defensive strategy in which the defender guarding the screener steps out to meet the ball handler, while the defender guarding the ball handler drops back to guard the screener. This can be an effective strategy if the defender guarding the screener is able to contain the ball handler.
- Blitzing: Blitzing is a defensive strategy in which both defenders guarding the ball handler and the screener double-team the ball handler. This can be an effective strategy if the defenders are able to trap the ball handler and force a turnover.
Recommendations: Mastering the Pick and Roll
The pick and roll is a fundamental play in basketball that can be used to create scoring opportunities for any team. By understanding the benefits of the pick and roll, learning how to run the play effectively, and practicing defending the play, you can improve your basketball game and become a more valuable player.
FAQs:
Q: What is the most important thing to remember when running the pick and roll?
A: Communication between the ball handler and the screener is key. Both players need to be on the same page in order to run the play effectively.
Q: What is the best way to defend the pick and roll?
A: The best way to defend the pick and roll depends on the situation. Switching, hedging, and blitzing are all common defensive strategies that can be used to stop the play.
Q: What are some of the most common variations of the pick and roll?
A: Some of the most common variations of the pick and roll include the high pick and roll, the low pick and roll, and the side pick and roll.
