Illegal Screen in Basketball

By Troy Wright •  Updated: 08/10/20 •  8 min read

screenNBA video rulebook

…with the screen being set from directly behind a defensive player. When setting a back screen, the screener must give the defensive player one step to avoid contact. The offensive player setting the back screen here positions himself directly behind the back of the defensive player, without giving that defender the required one step of space. Since the required step is not given by the offensive screener, this is an offensive foul for an illegal screen.

NBA players

The Definition of a Screen

Why Are Screens Used

Types Of Illegal Screens

What Makes an Illegal Screen in Basketball 

         

Not Giving Reasonable Space

     

Moving

               

Leaning In

       

Extending Your Lower Body

   

Extending Arms

        NBA VP of Referee and Replay OperationsMarc Gasol’sGolden State Warriors

When you go and set a screen to a moving opponent you have to get directly in his path and you have to be at that spot and give him an opportunity to stop or avoid contact.  You also can not have your legs extended outside your shoulders or your forearms extended.

What is the penalty for an illegal screen?

offensive foul  turnover  bonus 

Types of Basketball Screens

Why Do We Need An Illegal Screen in Basketball

    pick up games 

Summary

              Steph Curry’s ankle bracetraveling in basketballShare your best story using a screen.  Were you on the receiving end of a big one?  Lose a tooth? Did you deliver the hammer?  How do you call it on your court?  Do you think the illegal screen rules are too strict?  lease leave your comments , we’d love to hear them!

Troy Wright

I am a lifetime basketball enthusiast and loved playing basketball competitively through high school. I still try and play at least 3 times a week and explore all kinds of equipment and training to keep myself on the court and continually getting better. I am a college basketball fanatic and move onto the NBA when March Madness ends.