Pick-and-Roll Coverage Calls
Communication
Legend
- player
- coach / parent
- movement path
How it works
Execute correct pick-and-roll defensive coverage by communicating the call clearly before the screen is set.
What you need
- basketball
- hoop
Your focus
Pick-and-roll defense breaks down because of communication failures, not lack of athleticism. Calling 'hedge,' 'switch,' or 'drop' before the screen is set gives both defenders time to execute correctly. Teams that master this communication can guard elite pick-and-roll without giving up easy baskets.
Set up small-sided activity pick-and-roll at the top of the key. Ballscreen defender calls coverage before ball handler reaches the screen.
The two defenders execute the called coverage, switch, hedge and recover, or drop.
Possession plays out. Coach grades communication timing: called before screen = full credit, called during = half credit, no call = zero.
Run 10 possessions per pair, rotating coverage calls.
Helpful cues
- Call it early, the screener telegraphs where they're going
- 'Switch' means both defenders commit instantly, no hesitation
- The non-ball defender is responsible for confirming the call
Adjust the challenge
Make it easier
Strip it back
Pre-assign the coverage so players only need to execute the call.
UpLVL it
Add the next challenge
Add a third offensive player as a spacer to create more variables.No account needed
Build a practice plan
Add drills, keep the plan in this browser, then share a link with your staff or parents.This library helps you find the right drill. Inside UpLVL the right drill finds the player.
This library helps you find the right drill. Inside UpLVL the right drill finds the player.After every practice, UpLVL automatically surfaces the drills each player needs to work on most. See it for yourself.