Kristian Ferrell
The pick and roll is a commonly used offensive strategy in basketball, from youth leagues all the way up to the NBA. It is so effective because it forces the defense to make a decision, and if the defense is not prepared, it can result in an easy score for the offense. There are several ways to defend against the pick and roll, including trapping, switching, and hedging. The type of defense employed depends on the skill set of the players and the game plan. For example, if the ball handler is very quick, a hedge and recover strategy may be employed. If the defense is filled with capable shooters, a drop defense may be used. Blitzing or double-teaming the ball handler can also disrupt the offense, but it leaves the defense vulnerable to quick passes.
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Low drop coverage
In low drop coverage, the defender of the offensive player setting the on-ball screen (the screener's defender) drops below the screen to prevent scoring opportunities near the basket. The screener's defender is positioned near the free throw line, sometimes deeper into the paint, and their primary role is to stay between the roller and the basket, limiting easy shots. This strategy is often employed with a “no man behind” philosophy, where the screener's defender keeps both the ball handler and the roller in front of them. As the ball handler navigates the screen, the screener's defender backpedals, forcing the ball handler to take less efficient shots from further out.
However, low drop coverage is less effective against players who are skilled at "pick-and-pop" actions. If the screener is a strong shooter, they can counter the low drop coverage by moving to the perimeter for an open jump shot. Therefore, it is important for the screener's defender to have sufficient speed to close out on the screener if they pop out to the perimeter.
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High drop coverage
Overall, high drop coverage is a useful strategy to limit scoring opportunities near the basket and force the offense to take more challenging shots. However, it requires precise execution and quick recovery to be effective.
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Hedge and recover
The pick-and-roll is one of the most common offensive strategies in basketball, from youth leagues all the way up to the NBA. It's so effective because it forces the defence to make a decision.
The hedge is sometimes referred to as a 'show' because the screener's defender will briefly show themselves to the screen receiver, limiting their dribbling options. It is important that the defender stays connected to the screener and does not give the ball-handler the chance to 'split' the screen. The defender should recover with their arms up to potentially deflect the pass if the ball-handler throws to the screener.
Communication is vital when using the hedge and recover strategy. For example, in a wing pick and roll, when X5 switches with X1, X5 must shout "Switch" to ensure effective communication.
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Blitz/double team
Blitzing or double-teaming is a strategy used in basketball defense to counter the pick-and-roll play. It involves both the defender guarding the screener and the defender guarding the ball-handler working together to aggressively trap the ball-handler immediately after they come off the screen. This strategy aims to force the ball-handler to make quick decisions and can lead to turnovers and disrupted offensive plays.
When blitzing or double-teaming, it is crucial to have a strong help-side defense to support the trapping defenders. Most double-teams should occur on the sideline, as this prevents the ball-handler from reaching the middle of the floor, where they could exploit the temporary numerical advantage.
Blitzing or double-teaming is particularly effective when used against guards who prioritize attacking the rim over passing. However, it is important to avoid this strategy if your defenders are not quick enough to effectively trap the ball-handler, as it may result in a disadvantage for your team.
Communication is essential during the blitz or double-team to ensure proper execution and coordination among the defenders. Additionally, this strategy requires a good understanding of the game and the ability to adapt to the ball-handler's movements.
Overall, blitzing or double-teaming can be a powerful tool in defending the pick-and-roll, but it should be used judiciously and with a full understanding of its risks and benefits.
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Icing
When employing the icing strategy, the on-ball defender forces the ball handler towards the screen and into a waiting defender in the paint. This limits the ball handler's options to either making a difficult drive or a pass. The screener's defender should be a formidable presence inside for this strategy to be effective.
However, it is important to note that icing is less effective against teams with screeners who are capable of hitting three-pointers. Screeners can exploit the space created by the pick and pop, which can create opportunities for their team.
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Frequently asked questions
Defending the pick and roll is not a one-size-fits-all strategy. It requires a good understanding of the game, communication, and adaptability. Here are some general tips:
- Try to disrupt the offense by pressuring the ball, making it harder for the opponent to dribble and pass, and increasing the chances of a mistake.
- Trap the dribbler and go over the screen.
- Use the “Weak” strategy to push the ball handler to their non-dominant hand.
- Blitz/Double Team: Defenders aggressively trap the ball-handler, forcing them to make a decision and potentially causing turnovers.
Here are some specific techniques:
- Hedge and Recover: The defender momentarily impedes the ball handler's progress and then returns to their original position.
- Icing: The defender forces the ball handler towards the screen and into a waiting defender in the paint, limiting their options.
- Low Drop: The defender stays between the roller and the basket to protect the rim and limit easy scoring opportunities.
- Peel Switch: When an offensive player beats their defender, another defender intervenes, and the beaten defender switches to cover the vacant matchup.
A middle pick and roll is typically set from the free-throw line extended and above. It can be further categorized into flat and angled types. Here are some techniques to defend against a middle pick and roll:
- Jam: The defender hugs the picker and moves the screen up as the guard sprints underneath.
- Show: The defender steps out to slow down the guard coming off the pick.
- Level: The defender levels off the screen to prevent the guard from turning the corner and forcing them to dribble with their non-dominant hand.
The guard defender plays a crucial role in defending the pick and roll. Here are some tips specifically for guards:
- Go over the screen if the opponent has a strong shooting ability.
- Go under the screen if the opponent has a weak shooting ability to reduce the risk of them attacking the rim.
- Communicate effectively with your teammates, especially when executing switches or traps.
