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OffenseDecision Making

Pick and Roll (PnR) Drill

The pick and roll is basketball's most versatile offensive action. This drill develops the ball handler's decision-making - drive, pass, or pop - while building the screener's footwork and rolling technique.

Age RangeAges 9+
Duration10 minutes
Group SizeGroups of 2 or 3
SportBasketball

Equipment Needed

  • One basketball
  • One hoop

Setup

  • Ball handler starts on the wing with the ball; screener positions 8 to 10 feet away, ready to set a pick at the top of the key.
  • One or two defenders guard each player loosely at first, focusing on positioning over pressure.
Pick and Roll (PnR) Drill1Ball handler2ScreenerXXrolldriveScreen → roll to rim; handler reads drive, pass, or pop

Instructions

  1. Ball handler dribbles toward the screener; screener sets a solid pick by turning their shoulders square and establishing position.
  2. Ball handler uses the screen to attack the defender; screener seals their defender and rolls toward the basket.
  3. Ball handler reads the defense - pass to the rolling screener, drive, or pop the screener for a three-point look.
  4. Run 5 to 6 possessions, then rotate roles so all players practice both handling and screening.
Coaching Points
  • Screener: Set the pick with feet shoulder-width apart and body turned square - avoid reaching or extending too far.
  • Ball handler: Dribble hard off the screen, attack the defender's hip, and read the pick-and-roll defense.
  • Screener: After setting the screen, seal the defender and roll hard to the basket with hands ready to catch.
  • Emphasize timing and communication - the screen and attack must happen together, not in sequence.

Variation

Add a second defender on the roll or a weak-side helper to teach ball handler to adjust and find the open man. Progress to live 3v3 or 5v5 games to apply the PnR in game-speed conditions.

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