The pick-and-pop is a versatile offensive play that can be a game-changer when executed properly. It creates space for shooters, disrupts defenses, and allows for dynamic scoring opportunities. As a basketball coach, teaching this technique can add a powerful tool to your team’s offensive arsenal. In this blog post, we’ll break down the fundamentals of the pick-and-pop and provide techniques to help you teach it effectively.

What Is the Pick-and-Pop?

The pick-and-pop is an offensive move in which a screener sets a pick (or screen) for a ball-handler, then “pops” out to an open area on the floor, usually beyond the three-point line or mid-range, instead of rolling toward the basket (as in a pick-and-roll). This creates an open shot opportunity for the screener, particularly if they have good shooting ability.

The pick-and-pop is most effective when the screener is a capable mid-range or perimeter shooter, and when the defense expects a pick-and-roll, opening up space for a wide-open jumper.

Why Use the Pick-and-Pop?

1. Spacing the Floor: The pick-and-pop stretches the defense, forcing opposing bigs to leave the paint and guard the perimeter. This opens up driving lanes for guards and creates better spacing overall.
2. Punishing Over-Help: Defenses often collapse to prevent drives off the screen, leaving shooters open for the pop. This forces the defense to make tough decisions.
3. Versatility: Unlike the pick-and-roll, which relies on finishing at the rim, the pick-and-pop allows for a variety of shot opportunities, including three-pointers and mid-range jumpers.

Teaching the Pick-and-Pop: Step-by-Step

1. Understanding the Screen:
   • Setting a Solid Screen: The first step is to teach players how to set an effective screen. The screener should have a wide base, feet planted, and position their body to create maximum obstruction for the defender.
   • Timing the Screen: Timing is crucial. The screener should hold their position long enough for the ball-handler to make a move, but not so long that they risk an offensive foul.
2. Reading the Defense:
   • Ball-Handler’s Role: The ball-handler must read the defense. If the defender goes under the screen, the handler should be prepared to shoot or drive. If the defender fights over the screen, this is where the pick-and-pop can shine.
   • Screener’s Read: The screener needs to quickly assess whether to roll to the basket or pop out for a jumper. If the defense switches or drops coverage, the pop is likely to be effective.
3. The Pop:
   • Popping to Space: Once the screen is set, the screener should quickly pivot and move to an open area on the court, usually the elbow, wing, or three-point line. The goal is to create separation from the defender.
   • Positioning: The screener needs to anticipate where the ball will come from and set up in a spot where they can receive the pass with a good shooting angle. Teach players to catch the ball on balance, ready to shoot immediately.
4. The Pass:
   • Ball-Handler’s Role: After using the screen, the ball-handler needs to deliver an accurate pass. The ball should be passed quickly and directly to the popping player to exploit the space created by the screen.
   • Timing and Accuracy: Stress to your players that the pass must be on time and on target. The earlier the screener receives the ball, the more time they will have to get off a clean shot.
5. The Shot:
   • Quick Release: The screener should be prepared to shoot as soon as they receive the ball. Emphasize footwork and balance so players can get off a quick and efficient shot.
   • Repetitions in Practice: Incorporate shooting drills that simulate game situations, where the screener pops out and immediately takes a shot. This helps players develop muscle memory for catch-and-shoot scenarios.
6. Variations of the Pick-and-Pop:
   • Pick-and-Pop with a Slip: Sometimes the defense will overplay the pop. In this case, teach your players to fake the pop and slip to the basket for an easy layup.
   • Pick-and-Pop into a Dribble Hand-Off: Another variation is for the screener to pop out but instead of shooting, initiate a dribble hand-off with another guard or ball-handler, creating even more movement and confusion for the defense.

Drills to Teach the Pick-and-Pop

1. Two-Man Game Drill:
   • Pair up players in two-man teams: one as the ball-handler, the other as the screener. Run through repetitions of the pick-and-pop, with the screener popping to different spots on the court. Focus on timing, positioning, and shot execution.
2. Pick-and-Pop Shooting Drill:
   • Have a line of players practice setting a screen and popping to different shooting spots (elbow, wing, top of the key). After receiving the pass, the player must shoot within three seconds to simulate game pressure.
3. Defender Reaction Drill:
   • Add a defender to the mix. The ball-handler and screener must read how the defender reacts to the screen and decide whether to pop for a shot, drive, or roll to the basket. This helps players develop in-game decision-making skills.

Common Mistakes to Watch For

1. Late Pops:
   • Some players tend to hold the screen too long, making the pop less effective. Emphasize the importance of quickly moving to an open spot after setting the pick.
2. Poor Spacing:
   • Players may pop too close to the ball-handler or too far away from their shooting range. Teach your team the right balance to maintain good spacing without sacrificing shooting angles.
3. Hesitation to Shoot:
   • The screener may hesitate to take the shot after popping, which gives the defense time to recover. Encourage confidence in shooting, especially after a clean catch.

Conclusion

The pick-and-pop is a valuable offensive tool that requires a combination of timing, communication, and shooting ability. By teaching your players the key elements of this play—setting strong screens, reading the defense, and quickly popping out to open space—you can create consistent scoring opportunities for your team. Incorporate the techniques and drills outlined in this post into your practices, and watch as your players become more versatile and effective on the offensive end.