Effect of Pick and Roll exploitation speed on mismatch situations

Abstract

Ball screens are the most frequently used offensive tactic in basketball. A performance analysis wasperformed to examine this offensive strategy in combination with different defensive actions. The purpose of this study was to examine the exploitation speed of Pick and Roll (PnR) in mismatches created by defensive switch. The study sample consisted of 26 matches from the EuroLeague championship throughout 2017–2018 (16 matches) and 2018–2019 (10 matches). A total of 472 Pick and Roll actions were analyzed in which the defense responded with switching, and the Pick and Roll exploitation speed (in the first 4΄΄or after 5΄΄) was examined. The results showed that most Pick and Roll plays (63.8%) occurred during 9΄΄– 16΄΄ of the 24΄΄ ball possession (p <0.05). The duration of Pick and Roll actions lasted primarily from 1΄΄ to 4΄΄ (64.8%). Furthermore, most Pick and Roll phases occurred without the use of a pass or with at least one pass (73.8%), and it was exploited in the first 4΄΄ (81%) when the Pick and Roll result was positive (p<.001). The outcome of the match and the effectiveness of the Pick and Roll were not affected by the exploitation time of the mismatches. Finally, the home team had a higher percentage of effective Pick and Rolls performed during the first 4΄΄. The above findings are important findings for coachesto apply best practices for exploiting this offensive energy. Effective use of PnR requires a lot of practice by athletes and further investigation by researchers to find the best possible options for its exploitation.