In basketball, a side pick-and-roll, also known as a side screen-and-roll, is an offensive play commonly used to create scoring opportunities. It involves two players working together: the ball handler and a teammate who sets a screen, or pick, for the ball handler.
The play begins with the ball handler starting on one side of the court, typically near the sideline. The teammate who is going to set the screen positions themselves near the ball handler, between the ball handler and the defender guarding them. The teammate then sets a screen by making contact with the defender, impeding their movement and creating an obstacle for the defender to navigate around.
Once the screen is set, the ball handler has two options. They can either use the screen to drive towards the basket, using the screener as a shield to create separation from the defender and potentially score a layup or draw a foul. Alternatively, they can use the screen to create space for a jump shot by pulling up for a mid-range or three-point shot.
The success of a side pick-and-roll depends on the coordination between the ball handler and the teammate setting the screen. The ball handler must read the defender’s reaction to the screen and make the appropriate decision, while the screener needs to set a solid screen and quickly roll to the basket if the ball handler drives or pop out to the perimeter if the ball handler pulls up for a shot. This play is often utilized as part of a team’s offensive strategy to create mismatches, open up scoring opportunities, and force the defense to make quick decisions to counter the play.