Setting Screens in Basketball

To set a screen in basketball you need to make sure that your feet are set and that you aren't leaning to the side. You want to get low and wide on the screen and choose the proper angle to set the screen at. A screen is used to help get a teammate open but can also result in the person that setting the screen getting open as well if the defense over helps on the player using the screen.

That is why after setting a screen you set you want to react and be ready to get the basketball. Some examples would be, opening up or spacing for the shot, rolling to the basket for a layup, or immediately going to set another screen. You should always do something though after you set a screen, don't just stand.

There are several different types of screens that you can use to help get your teammates open. Some are more complicated than others, but all are good tools to use to help the offense run smoother. Every team needs players that are willing to set screens for their teammates. Here are 4 basic types of screens that you can use the next time you play. Also included with each type of screen is a link to watch a play with that type of screen in it.

4 Types of Screens

• Ball Screen: This is when you go up and screen the ball handlers man. Make sure that you get your feet set before setting the screen and also that the screen is at a good angle for the player dribbling the ball. Ball Screen Play

• Down Screen: You will most likely use this type of screen for a wing player. What you are going to do is go position yourself away from the ball next to the player that is going to use the screen. That they can run their man off of you and come out to the perimeter or curl off of you to receive the basketball. Down Screen Play

• Back Screen: Find a teammate that is on the perimeter and go back screen their man so that they can cut into the paint to receive the pass for a layup. This is another type of screen where you need to pick the proper angle to set the screen at. Back Screen Play

• Flare Screen: This is similar to the back screen but the only difference is the angle of the screen. Instead of screening them so they can cut into the paint, you are going to screen them so that they can cut along the perimeter for a shot. This screen is going to be set so that the shooter is moving away from where the basketball is at. Flare Screen Play

Setting screens in basketball is a big part of the game. It is not something that requires much skill but it does require knowing how and then the desire to do it. If you would like to checkout more of our free basketball plays click here.