WNBA Pick-and-Roll: How One Simple Play Creates Many Scoring Chances

What Is a Pick and Roll?

The pick and roll is one of the most common plays in basketball.

It usually involves two players. One player has the ball while a teammate sets a screen for her.

The ball handler can then use the screen to move toward the basket or create space for a shot.

The player who sets the screen can then move toward the basket, which is called the "roll."

Why the Pick and Roll Is Important

The play can force defenders to make quick decisions.

A defender may need to stay with the ball handler while another defender watches the player setting the screen.

If the defense makes a mistake, the offense may find an open scoring opportunity.

The Ball Handler

The ball handler is usually a guard, although other players can also run the play.

She must read the defense carefully.

After using the screen, she may choose to shoot, drive, pass to the rolling teammate or find another open player.

The Screener

The second player sets the screen.

Her job is to give the ball handler space by making it harder for the defender to stay in front.

After setting the screen, she can roll toward the basket or sometimes move outside for a shot.

The Roll to the Basket

After setting the screen, the big player can quickly turn and run toward the basket.

If the defense follows the ball handler too closely, the rolling player may become open.

A well timed pass can then lead to a layup or another close shot.

The Pick and Pop

The screener does not always have to roll toward the basket.

She can instead move away from the basket and prepare for a jump shot.

This is known as a pick and pop.

It can be especially useful when the screener is a reliable outside shooter.

How Defenders Stop It

Defenses have several ways to defend the pick and roll.

They can switch assignments, stay with their original players or have another defender help.

The choice depends on the players involved and the team's defensive system.

Switching Defenders

When defenders switch, the defender guarding the ball handler may change.

This can create a different matchup.

For example, a guard may suddenly be guarded by a bigger player, while the screener may have a smaller defender covering her.

Offensive players can
look for ways to take advantage of these situations.

Creating Open Shots

The pick and roll can create more than just layups.

If defenders move toward the ball, another teammate may become open around the three-point line.

The ball handler can pass outside and give a shooter a good opportunity.

Passing Decisions

A good pick and roll player must make quick decisions.

She needs to recognize what the defense is doing.

If the defense protects the basket, she may pass outside.

If defenders stay with the shooters, she may attack the basket.

Timing Matters

Timing is extremely important.

If the screen comes too early or too late, the play may not work properly.

The ball handler and screener need to understand each other's movements.

Good timing can make the play much harder to defend.

Communication Helps

Teammates need to communicate before and during the play.

The screener needs to know where the ball handler wants the screen.

The ball handler also needs to understand where her teammate is moving.

Clear communication can reduce mistakes.

Pick and Roll With Different Players

The play does not have to involve only a point guard and center.

Different combinations can be used.

A forward can set the screen for another forward. A center can screen for a guard. The possibilities depend on the players on the court.

Young Players Can Learn From It

The pick and roll teaches young players several important basketball skills.

They learn how to read defenses, use screens, pass under pressure and make quick decisions.

Learning these skills can help players become more complete offensive players.

Why Fans Should Watch the Pick and Roll

The next time you watch a WNBA game, pay attention when two players come together near the top of the court.

Watch how the defenders react.

Look for the ball handler's decision and notice what the screener does after setting the screen.

You may discover that a simple two-player action can involve the entire defense.

The pick and roll is one of basketball's most useful offensive plays.

It can create driving lanes, open shots, passing opportunities and mismatches.

Its success depends on timing, communication, decision making and teamwork.

For WNBA fans, understanding the pick and roll can make watching games even more interesting because you can see how players read the defense and turn one simple play into several possible scoring opportunities.