Teaching the Pick and Roll
The pick and roll is a fundamental offensive play in lacrosse that creates space, confuses defenders, and opens up high-percentage scoring opportunities. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown to teach the basics effectively, ensuring that players grasp the strategy and execute it properly.
1. Setting the Pick:
• Body Positioning: The player setting the pick (the picker) should position themselves close to the defender guarding the ball carrier. The picker should be shoulder-width apart, knees slightly bent, and in a strong, balanced stance. Emphasize keeping their feet still once the pick is set to avoid being called for a moving pick.
• Angle of the Pick: The picker needs to set the screen at an angle that forces the defender to either go around them or switch to another player. This angle is crucial because it makes it harder for the defender to stay on the ball carrier.
• Communication: Before setting the pick, the picker should communicate with the ball carrier, signaling when and where they plan to set the screen. This verbal cue allows the ball carrier to prepare to use the screen effectively.
2. Rolling to Space:
• Timing the Roll: After setting the pick, the picker should wait for the defender to collide or start maneuvering around the screen. Once the defender is caught in the pick, the picker “rolls” or cuts toward the goal or open space. This timing is essential—if the roll is too early or too late, the opportunity may be lost.
• Stick Protection: While rolling, the picker should protect their stick and be ready for a pass. The stick should be positioned away from defenders to avoid checks, keeping it in a shooting-ready position.
• Finding the Open Lane: The picker’s movement should create a clear lane toward the goal or open space on the field. The goal is to get free from defenders, forcing a switch or mismatch.
3. Using the Pick (Ball Carrier’s Role):
• Tight Dodging: The ball carrier must use the pick by dodging tightly around the screen. Staying close to the pick makes it more difficult for the defender to follow, forcing them to go around the picker and creating separation.
• Reading the Defense: As the ball carrier moves around the pick, they should quickly read the defense. If the defense switches, the ball carrier might have a favorable matchup against a slower or weaker defender. If the defense doesn’t switch, the ball carrier may have space for a shot, or the rolling picker may be open for a pass.
• Option to Shoot or Pass: After the dodge, the ball carrier can either shoot if space is created or pass to the picker who should be rolling toward an open spot. This decision depends on the defensive reaction.
4. Reading and Reacting to the Defense:
• Switching Defenders: If the defenders switch after the pick, this often creates a mismatch. A smaller defender may now be covering the picker, or a slower defender might be on the ball carrier. Encourage players to recognize these mismatches and take advantage.
• No Switch: If the defenders don’t switch, the ball carrier should look to capitalize on the space created by the pick. The picker rolling toward the goal may now be open for a quick pass, or the ball carrier may have an open shot.
• Misdirection: A more advanced concept is faking the roll. If the defense is anticipating the roll, the picker can fake the cut and pop out to receive the ball from a different angle.
5. Incorporating into Drills:
• Start Simple: Begin by practicing the pick and roll with no defenders. This allows players to focus on timing, communication, and the mechanics of the pick and roll. Players can switch roles to understand both the picker and ball carrier’s responsibilities.
• Add Light Pressure: Introduce light defensive pressure to simulate a real-game scenario. This gives players a chance to practice reading the defense and reacting accordingly, building confidence in their decision-making.
• Game Situations: Finally, run the pick and roll in full-speed scrimmages or game-like situations. Encourage players to adapt the pick and roll based on what the defense gives them—whether it’s a switch, help defense, or no rotation at all.
Why the Pick and Roll is Effective:
• Creates Space: By setting a screen, the picker forces the defender to react, creating space for both the ball carrier and the rolling player. This movement opens up lanes for shots or passes.
• Confuses Defenses: The pick and roll forces defenders to communicate and make quick decisions. If they hesitate or fail to switch effectively, the offense gains a significant advantage.
• Promotes Teamwork: The pick and roll requires coordination between teammates, emphasizing communication and timing. It’s a simple yet effective way to build offensive chemistry.
• Versatility: This play can be used in various areas of the field and at different stages of a game. Whether in settled offense or transition, the pick and roll can create scoring opportunities against both man-to-man and zone defenses.
By teaching and practicing the fundamentals of the pick and roll, players will learn how to work together, capitalize on defensive weaknesses, and create high-quality scoring chances. With time, this simple but powerful play can become a cornerstone of your offensive strategy.
