How to Use a Screen in Basketball

Using a screen to get an open shot is a very effective way to score. This article focuses on how to effectively utilize your teammate's screen to get open for a shot. It takes hustle and some thinking to outwit your opponent and get the shot you want.

Things You'll Need

  • Teammate
  • Defender
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Instructions

    • 1

      Identify your teammate who is going to set the screen for you.

    • 2

      Take a jab step away from your teammate. This fake will get your defender off balance by moving him/her away from where you will be going.

    • 3

      Run like you are on fire-get to your teammate as quickly as possible. If you can simply outhustle your opponent to the spot you want to shoot from, you may not even need the screen.

    • 4

      As you approach your teammate (the screener), recognize where your opponent is positioned. This will be important once we get to Step 6.

    • 5

      Be sure to run very close to the screener. If possible, try to rub shoulders or grab the jersey of your teammate as you go past him/her. By staying close to the screener it will not allow your opponent to get through the screen easily-it could also lead to a foul on the defender if they run into your teammate.

    • 6

      If your opponent is to the ball side of you, simply run off the screen and call for the ball. Your teammate's screen should pick off the opponent and leave you open.

    • 7

      If your opponent is trailing you, curl around your teammate and call for the ball. By knowing that you are curling or wrapping around your teammate you have a huge advantage in that your opponent will not be able to keep up with you.

    • 8

      If your opponent tries to jump into the passing lane by coming over the screen, simply fade away from the screen and catch an over-the-top pass for an open shot. The defender will be caught between you and the screener.

    • 9

      Once you catch the pass, look to take the open shot or pass to an open teammate. In many cases the teammate who set the screen for you could roll to the basket for a pass from you and a lay-up.