The pick-and-roll is one of the most effective plays in basketball, used at every level of the game. It creates opportunities by forcing defenders to make quick choices, opening space for the ball handler and the screener.

For Lykkers looking to sharpen their skills, understanding how to read and use ball screens will help you run smoother offense and score smarter. This guide will break down the basics of setting, reading, and executing the pick-and-roll so you can add it to your game.

Understanding the Basics

Before you can run the pick-and-roll effectively, you need to know what makes it work and how to use each role properly.

What is a Ball Screen?

A ball screen (or pick) is when a teammate sets a stationary screen on your defender, giving you room to dribble into open space. This forces the defense to react and gives you options to attack.

The Ball Handler’s Job

As the ball handler, your main goal is to use the screen effectively. That means setting up your defender by dribbling toward the screen, brushing close to the screener, and making a quick decision after the defense reacts.

The Screener’s Job

The screener sets a solid, legal screen without moving, then rolls or pops after the ball handler uses it. Rolling means cutting toward the basket, while popping means stepping away to an open shooting spot.

Why It Works?

The pick-and-roll works because it forces two defenders to guard the ball handler at once. If they switch, roll, or hedge, one of them is likely to make a mistake—and that’s when you take advantage.

Reading and Executing the Play

Knowing how to react after the screen is what turns a basic play into a scoring secret.

Read the Defense

Pay attention to how defenders react. If your defender fights over the screen, look to drive. If they go under the screen, pull up for a jumper. If both defenders trap you, find the open teammate.

Use the Screen Tight

Don’t leave space between you and the screener. Dribbling shoulder-to-hip with the screener makes it harder for your defender to slip through. Staying close gives the play maximum effectiveness.

Make Quick Decisions

The pick-and-roll moves fast. After you use the screen, you have just a second or two to decide: shoot, drive, or pass. Hesitating gives defenders time to recover, so be decisive.

Trust the Roll or Pop

When your teammate sets the screen, they’ll either roll to the basket or pop out for a shot. Look for them immediately after the defense reacts—this pass is often the easiest way to get points.

Mix It Up

Don’t use the pick-and-roll the same way every time. Sometimes drive hard, sometimes pull up, sometimes hit the screener quickly. Keeping defenses guessing makes the play much harder to stop.

The pick-and-roll is simple but powerful. By working closely with your screener, staying tight to the screen, and reading the defense quickly, you can create endless scoring chances for yourself and your teammates. For Lykkers, the lesson is clear: it’s not just about running the play, but about reacting smartly to what the defense gives you. Mastering these basics will make you a stronger, more confident player on the court—ready to use one of basketball’s oldest tricks to your advantage.