Splitting the Screen

/ˈsplɪtɪŋ ðə skriːn/
[ split-ing thuh screen ]

Definition of Splitting the Screen

An offensive strategy in basketball where a player breaches a defensive screen to create opportunities.

What is Splitting the Screen?

What is ?

"Splitting the screen" is a tactic in basketball employed by offensive players. It happens when a player with the basketball sees a screen being set by two defenders and instead of taking the screen, this player "splits" the defenders by dribbling the ball between them. It's a risky move that requires precision and speed, but when executed correctly, it can result in a clear path to the basket or an open teammate.

Examples of how to use the basketball term Splitting the Screen

What is ?

  1. The point guard surprised his opponents by splitting the screen and heading straight for the basket.
  2. During last night's game, LeBron James demonstrated his exceptional skills by successfully splitting the screen multiple times.
  3. Practice on splitting the screen can create opportunities for open shots during the game.

Splitting the Screen Strategy Tips

What is ?

Good timing and quick decision-making skills are vital for successfully splitting the screen. Strengthen your dribbling skills, speed, and learn to anticipate when the screen will be set to increase your chances of success.
Basketball Terminology

Browse the A-Z of Basketball Terms

Learn essential basketball terminology with definitions, pronunciations and the meaning of each word in layman's terms.

What does Splitting the Screen mean in Basketball?

In basketball, splitting the screen refers to an offensive player breaching a defensive screen by dribbling the ball between two defenders. This strategy creates scoring opportunities.

How would you explain Splitting the Screen in layman's terms?

Imagine two defenders blocking your path. Instead of moving around them, you dribble the ball straight between them, splitting them apart. That's essentially what splitting the screen is.

When should a player decide to split the screen?

A player should decide to split the screen when they see two defenders setting up the screen and feel confident in their dribbling and speed abilities.

What skills are required to split the screen effectively?

Successful screen splitting requires strong dribbling skills, quick speed, precise timing, and the ability to anticipate defensive moves.

Why is splitting the screen considered a risky move in basketball?

It's considered risky because a poorly executed attempt could lead to a turnover, as the ball dribbler is trying to navigate through a tight space between two defenders.

More Basketball Terminology

What is ?