How to Counter a Blitz Defense in the Pick & Roll
Goal
Teach players how to effectively counter the Blitz defense in a pick-and-roll situation. The goal is to capitalize on the defense's aggressive trapping, using quick passes, spacing, and smart reads to find open shots.
Setup
Ball handler starts with the ball at the top or on the wing.
Screener is set up in the middle or at the top, ready to set the screen.
Wing players position themselves at the top and in the corners, ensuring optimal spacing for quick passes.
Step-by-Step Execution
1. Recognizing the Blitz
As the ball handler comes off the screen, the on-ball defender and the screener's defender trap the ball handler by jumping out aggressively.
The key is for the ball handler to recognize the trap immediately and remain calm.
2. Quick Passes
Quick ball movement is essential to beat the Blitz. The ball handler should look for the short roll option with the screener quickly cutting to an open space.
Screener’s role: The screener must short roll to the open space (usually near the free-throw line or short corner) to avoid crowding the ball handler, creating a clean passing lane.
If the screener is covered, the ball handler should look for other passing options, such as a skip pass to the wing or a quick lob to the short roller.
3. Offensive Spacing
Wing players should move up to the ball handler’s level, offering themselves as passing options.
Corner players should shift up to the wings, ensuring the offense has adequate spacing for the ball handler to make quick passes without interference.
Spacing is key to opening up passing lanes and avoiding a crowded offense.
4. Exploiting the Defense
Ball handler's vision: As soon as the ball handler sees the trap, they must maintain their dribble and quickly scan for the open teammate. The defense’s aggressive movement gives the offense a temporary advantage.
Attack the middle: Once the ball has been passed to the short roller or wing, the offense should look to attack the basket or kick out to open shooters.
Moving the ball quickly creates easy opportunities for an open shot or a driving lane.
Coaching Tips
Calmness under pressure: Teach the ball handler to stay composed when trapped and to avoid panicking.
Recognize the trap: Make sure the ball handler recognizes the Blitz and immediately looks for the short roll or outlet pass.
Timing the pass: The screener should roll quickly but with enough distance from the ball handler to remain a viable passing option.
Spacing: Remind wing players and corners to adjust their positions to maximize spacing, creating clear passing lanes and options.
Full Breakdown
What is Blitz Defense in Pick & Roll?
Blitz defense is a trap strategy where the defenders on both the ball handler and the screener aggressively double-team the ball handler after the screen is set. The goal is to pressure the ball handler, force a bad pass, or create a turnover. Blitz is commonly used to disrupt the timing of pick-and-roll plays.
Why It Works (And How to Counter It)
Blitz defenses can be highly aggressive and leave passing lanes open due to the quick, chaotic movements of the defenders. This can lead to a temporary defensive disadvantage that the offense can exploit.
Quick passes and spacing are essential when facing a Blitz. By recognizing the trap early, the ball handler can quickly pass to the screener or open teammate, attacking the defense’s aggressive positioning.
Variations and Progressions
Short Roll: The screener can short roll to a mid-range spot to maintain spacing and be available for a quick pass.
Pick-and-Pop: If the defense overcommits to the trap, the screener could pop out for a jumper or 3-point shot.
Handoff Options: The ball handler can execute a quick handoff with the screener if the defenders leave the screener open.
Common Errors and Fixes
| Mistake | Fix |
|---|---|
| Ball handler rushes the pass | Slow down the decision-making; read the defense. |
| Screener crowds the ball handler | Maintain enough space for a clean pass. |
| Wing players fail to move up | Ensure wings adjust to ball handler’s level for passing lanes. |
Youth & High School Adjustments
Youth: Emphasize footwork and calm decision-making under pressure.
High School: Train quick recognition of the Blitz and teach players how to stay spaced correctly for clean passing.
