Proper Execution of On-Ball Screens
On-Ball screens being run on all levels - youth to professional. On-Ball screens are basically two player isolations involving the ballhandler and a screener. An array of quick hitting options make them very difficult to defend. Most On-Ball screens are set midcourt, near the top of the free throw circle or on a wing. However, they can take place anywhere on the court. On-Ball screens are a favorite to use to create a good shot as the shot or game clock runs down.
The keys to the success of the On-Ball screens is in proper execution and coordination. The ballhandler and screener both have to think and function as one unit. This requires proper footwork, timing, non-verbal communication, and experience. This also means having a working knowledge of various defensive reads and counters.
Basic Skills &Techniques
THE SCREENER: Setting a Solid Screen
THE BALLHANDLER: Setting Up and Using the Screen
VARIATIONS: Mid, Side and Horns Alignments
Screener's Actions
Setting a Solid Screen
When setting a screen, execute a bent knee jump stop keeping arms tucked in close to body.
Assume a solid, wide base. Do not allow defender to push through screen.
Be stationary and do not lean or step out at last moment. Being set and holding the screen not only makes the screen more effective, but it also reduces the chances of getting called for a moving or illegal screen.
Maintain vision on the ball at all times observing the defensive deployment. How the is the defense defending the screen? Normally, teams will defend On-Ball screens only one way with the majority "Showing &Recovering."
Screen and Roll
After setting a solid On-Ball screen, the screener should be alert to counter the defensive actions. The majority of times, the screener will seal off the defender by executing a reverse pivot and roll to the basket for shot or rebound.
Screen and Pop
However, if the screeners are good outside shooters, they have the option of popping out for ball reversal pass and a spot up shot.
Screener's Reads & Counters
In basketball, it is the defense that dictates offensive options, not the offense. Therefore, the ability to read and counter defensive actions is paramount to any offensive success. In addition, on On-Ball screens, it is just as important for the screener to read and counter defensive deployment as it is for the ballhandler.
Defensive Reads: What if the . . . .
The defender CHASES OVER the Screen?
The ballhandler's defender GOES UNDER the screen?
The defenders SWITCH on the screen.
Smaller Defender is MISMATCHED INSIDE on switch?
The screener's defender steps out and SHOWS EARLY on screen?
The defenders SHOW &RECOVER on screen?
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The screener's Defender the DENIES SCREEN?
Ballhandler' Actions
It is the sole responsibility of the ballhandler to set up the defender and use a screen properly.
Setting Up the Screen
In setting a solid On-Ball screen, the ballhandler must have patience and allow the screener to get set. In executing the On-Ball screen, the ballhander starts with a move toward the basket. If the defender does not react, the ballhandler should continue and dribble penetrate to the basket for shot. When defender does react, the ballhandler should then make a strong drive over the On-Ball screen to the basket.
Centering the Screen
With a head and eyes up dribble, "Center" the screen by stepping toward the middle of the screener with the inside foot and then stepping over the screen with outside foot. This will force the defender into either chasing over or going under the screen.
Utilizing the Screen
The most common error in using a screen is moving BEFORE the screener can get set. Have patience and wait until screener is in position prior to initiating action.
Change direction and accelerate off the screen.
"Center" the screen by taking a step with inside foot directly into the screener.
Come off the screener tight (shoulder to shoulder) with explosiveness.
Read and counter the defensive reactions.
Ballhandler's Reads &Counters
In basketball, it is the defense that dictates offensive options, not the offense. Therefore, the ability to read and counter defensive actions is paramount to any offensive success. In executing On-Ball screens, it takes a coordinated effort by both the screener and ballhandler to counter the defensive actions being used against them.
Defensive Reads: What if the . . . .
Click on the desired read to view illustrated counter option
Defender CHASES OVER the screen.
Baseline Defender HELPS OUT on drive.
Weakside Defender SAGS OFF wing to help on drive.
Defender GOES UNDER the screen.
Defense SWITCHES on the screen.
Bigger defender MISMATCHED OUTSIDE against quicker ball handler.
Defense SHOWS and RECOVERS on screen.
Defender CHEATS OVER the screen early.
On-Ball Screens Variations
The basic option of On-Ball screens is for the ballhandler to drive hard to the basket off the screen. The screener, usually a power forward or post, sets the On-Ball screen ("Big" screening for "Small"). The ballhandler has the option of turning the corner for a drive to the basket or executing a pull up jumper if the defense goes below the screen. The ballhandler also has options of a drop pass to the post, or kick out passes to the shooters spotting up on the wings. If the defense switches on the screen, then the screen-and-roll becomes a viable option.
MID SCREEN
SIDE SCREEN
HORNSClick on the specific screen to view illustrated execution details.
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