An “illegal screen” in basketball occurs when a player sets a pick (or screen) in a way that violates the rules of the game. A screen is when a player stands still and uses their body to block or impede the movement of a defender, usually to free up a teammate. For a screen to be legal, several conditions must be met:
1. Stationary Position: The player setting the screen must be stationary before and during the screen. Moving while setting the screen is a violation.
2. No Contact: The player setting the screen cannot make illegal contact with the defender. This includes pushing, grabbing, or bumping into the defender. The defender must have a clear path to move, and any illegal contact, such as extending the arms or making unnecessary physical contact, can result in a foul.
3. Screening Area: The player setting the screen must give the defender enough space to move around the screen. If the player sets the screen too close or doesn’t give the defender room to avoid the pick, it can be considered illegal.
4. Feet Position: The player setting the screen must have their feet set, typically with their feet positioned shoulder-width apart, and they should not be moving into the defender’s path once the screen is set.
An illegal screen can result in a foul being called on the player who set the screen, and the opposing team will be awarded possession of the ball.
