Basketball: A Look at a Few Alternative Ball Screen Reads

Headed into the postseason, teams need pick-and-roll competence. The most common ball screen reads include the handler driving, the handler shooting (when the handler defender goes under), passing to the roller, and passing to the screener popping. 

But other worthy nuances and options occur, too. Here are a few with brief videos. 

Flat screens.

• Why? Prevents the defense from calling a side defensively.
• Issue? Screener must give the defender a step to prevent fouling. 

Butt screens. 

• Why? Main advantage is the screener can see the court ahead.
• Issue? Remaining stationary. 

Rejected screens.

• Why? Defenses 'expect' the common actions.
• Issue? Making the right read. 

Rescreens.

• Why? The initial screen may not go as planned. 
• Issue. Decision-making and often skill of the handler. 

Slips/ghost screens. 

• Why? Overeager defenders get trapped. Spontaneous or planned...
• Issue. Better used after successful pick-and-rolls. Carolina turns it into a primary threat.

Lagniappe. Many great coaches from around the world share their expertise. Here's a pick-and-roll video from Pascal Meurs.