The Pick the Picker Play is an offensive set built around dodging, cutting, and setting picks to create movement around the 8m. The play uses multiple actions in sequence, giving the ball carrier options while creating opportunities for cutters to come off picks.

The diagrams use four movements: dodge, pass, cut to set pick, and cut off pick.

Setup

Set up the players in the following positions around the 8m:

  • X1 and X2 are positioned at the top.

  • X3 and X4 are positioned on the left and top of the 8m.

  • X5 is positioned on the right side.

  • X6 and X7 are positioned below the 8m.

The diagrams show the ball beginning with different players as the play progresses.

Running the Play

1. X1 Starts the Dodge

X1 begins the play with a dodge down the left side.

As X1 initiates the dodge, X3 moves across the top of the 8m to begin the next action.

The goal is to get the defense moving as the play develops.

2. X3 Sets the Pick

X3 cuts across to set a pick.

The pick gives another attacker an opportunity to cut into space while the defense has to navigate the movement.

The timing between the dodge and the pick is important.

3. Cut Off the Pick

After setting the pick, X3 cuts off the pick.

This creates another movement for the defense to defend and gives the offense a potential cutting option.

The diagram on page 3 shows the cutter moving off the pick while the initial dodger continues away from the action.

4. Continue the Picking Action

The play then shifts to the opposite side.

X5 moves into position to set another pick, while the cutter comes off the pick toward the middle.

This keeps the defense moving instead of allowing defenders to settle into their original positions.

5. Attack From the Right Side

The final diagram shows X2 carrying the ball and dodging down the right side.

The previous movement has created space and movement around the 8m, allowing the offense to continue attacking from the opposite side.

Key Concepts

Dodge

The initial dodge gets the defense moving and starts the sequence.

Cut to Set the Pick

Players should move with purpose when setting a pick. The cut needs to create a useful angle for the pick rather than simply standing in the defender's way.

Cut Off the Pick

Once the pick is set, the picker becomes a cutter. This gives the defense another movement to account for.

Keep the Defense Moving

The play uses actions on both sides of the 8m. As one action develops, another pick and cut can create the next opportunity.

Coaching Points

When teaching the Pick the Picker Play, focus on:

  • Timing the cuts with the dodge

  • Setting picks with purpose

  • Cutting hard off the pick

  • Keeping players moving

  • Creating space for the ball carrier

  • Moving the action from one side of the 8m to the other

The key is to make each movement lead into the next. The dodge creates movement, the cut creates the pick, and the pick creates another cutting opportunity.