Basketball is a game of strategy, skill, and split-second decisions. Among the various plays that teams execute on the court, the pick and roll stands out as a fundamental tactic used at almost every level of the game. We'll dive into pick and roll drills, offering both players a guide to mastering this basketball maneuver.
The Anatomy of a Pick and Roll
The pick and roll is a two-player action designed to create scoring opportunities.
The effectiveness of this play hinges on the correct angle of the screen set and the ability of both the ball handler and the screener to read the defense and react accordingly.
Importance of a Solid Screen
The player setting the screen, often referred to as the screener or roll player, must establish a position that effectively creates separation between the ball handler and their defender. This act of setting screens requires precision and timing, as an illegal screen can result in a foul and a turnover.
Ball Handler and Screener
The magic of the pick and roll lies in the synergy between the ball handler and the screener. Both players must work in unison, with the ball handler using the screen effectively to create separation and the screener rolling towards the basket at the right moment. This coordination can be honed through targeted basketball drills that emphasize communication and timing.
Drill #1: The Basic Two-Player Pick and Roll
The first drill to master is the basic pick and roll. This drill involves one player setting a screen near the free throw line while the ball handler dribbles around the screen. The key coaching points here are for the screener to set a firm screen and for the ball handler to make a quick pass to the screener rolling towards the hoop.
Drill #2: Pick and Roll with Defense
Adding defenders to the drill simulates real-game conditions and forces both the ball handler and the screener to make quick decisions. In this drill, defenders are tasked with guarding the offensive players, creating a scenario where the offensive duo must use the pick and roll to break the defense and score.
Drill #3: High Pick and Roll
The high pick and roll is initiated further away from the basket, typically around the three-point line. This drill focuses on the ball handler and the screener creating separation from defenders at the top of the key. The high pick allows for a variety of options, including a jump shot for the ball handler or a roll to the basket by the screener.
Drill #4: Side Pick and Roll
Executing a pick and roll from the side, such as from the left wing or the opposite wing, introduces different angles and spacing challenges. This drill emphasizes the importance of the screener rolling quickly to the rim and the ball handler reading the defense to either take the shot or deliver a pass.
Drill #5: Pick and Pop
Not all pick and roll plays end with the screener rolling to the basket.
This drill is particularly useful for post players with the ability to shoot from mid-range.
Drill #6: Reverse Pivot and Slip
The reverse pivot and slip drill teaches the screener to fake setting a screen and then quickly slip to the basket. This move can catch defenders off guard and is effective against teams that are adept at defending traditional pick and roll plays.
Drill #7: Short Roll and Quick Pass
In situations where the defense collapses on the roll player, a short roll combined with a quick pass can be the answer. This drill practices the screener rolling only a short distance before receiving a pass for a closer shot or to make an additional pass to an open teammate.
Drill #8: Pick and Roll with Multiple Screens
Advanced pick and roll drills involve using multiple screens to create even more confusion for the defense. This drill requires two players setting screens at different points, allowing the ball handler to choose the most effective screen to use to create scoring opportunities.
Drill #9: Pick and Roll from the Middle
Executing a pick and roll from the middle of the court opens up both sides for potential plays. This drill focuses on the ball handler's ability to use the screen and then decide whether to drive, shoot, or pass based on the defense's reaction.
Drill #10: Pick and Roll with a Weak Side Action
Incorporating weak side action into the pick and roll drill adds another layer of complexity. While the pick and roll is happening on one side of the court, other players are engaged in movements that can distract the defense and open up additional scoring options.
Drill #11: Guard-to-Guard Pick and Roll
A variation of the pick and roll is the guard-to-guard screen, where one guard sets a screen for another. This drill practices the timing and quick decision-making required when two perimeter players collaborate to create a scoring chance.
Drill #12: Pick and Roll with a Dribble Handoff
Combining a dribble handoff with a pick and roll can be an effective way to catch the defense off balance. This drill works on the smooth transition from the handoff to the screen and roll, emphasizing fluidity and precision.
Drill #13: Pick and Roll with a Backdoor Cut
Sometimes, the best option out of a pick and roll is a backdoor cut from a teammate. This drill incorporates the timing of the cut with the execution of the pick and roll, teaching players to be aware of all available options.
Drill #14: Pick and Roll with a Screen Rejection
Rejecting the screen, or going the opposite direction of where the screen is set, can be a surprising move. This drill practices the ball handler's ability to read the defense and make a split-second decision to reject the screen and create a scoring opportunity.
Drill #15: Pick and Roll Endgame Situations
Practicing pick and roll drills in endgame situations, where the pressure is high, and the defense is tight, is crucial. This drill simulates late-game scenarios, forcing players to execute the pick and roll with precision under duress.
Drill #16: Pick and Roll with Transition
The transition pick and roll drill focuses on executing the play in a fast-break situation. This teaches players to quickly identify the opportunity for a pick and roll and to execute it effectively while on the move.
Drill #17: Pick and Roll with Contact
Basketball is a physical game, and pick and roll plays often involve contact. This drill emphasizes the ability to maintain composure and execute the play despite the physicality of the defense.
Drill #18: Pick and Roll with a Follow-Up Screen
Sometimes, the initial pick and roll doesn't create an open shot. This drill practices setting a follow-up screen to give the ball handler another chance to create a scoring opportunity.
Drill #19: Pick and Roll with a Delay
A delayed pick and roll can be deceptive and effective. This drill works on the timing of the delay and the sudden burst of action that follows, catching the defense off guard.
Pick and Roll Drills FAQs
We hope this Frequently Asked Questions can be a resource for your questions about perfecting this essential basketball move. Whether you're a seasoned player or just looking to improve your team skills on the court, get ready to roll in for more knowledge.
What is the most important aspect of a successful pick and roll?
The most important aspect is the coordination and timing between the ball handler and the screener, as well as the ability to read the defense and make quick decisions.
How can a team defend against a pick and roll effectively?
Defending against a pick and roll requires good communication among defenders, quick switches or hedging strategies, and the ability to anticipate the offensive players' movements.
Can the pick and roll be used in any offensive system?
Yes, the pick and roll is a versatile play that can be adapted to fit various offensive systems and can be executed by players of different positions and skill sets.
Summary
The pick and roll is a dynamic and versatile play that can be executed in various ways to create scoring opportunities. By practicing the drills outlined in this article, players can develop the skills necessary to execute an effective pick and roll, while coaches can incorporate these drills into their training sessions to improve their team's offensive strategy. Remember, the key to a successful pick and roll is the synergy between the ball handler and the screener, precise timing, and the ability to read the defense.
