Using Ball Screens as a Handler
A ball screen (on-ball screen) is an off-ball player setting a legal screen for the ball handler.
Individual Skills
Curl Cut: Movement Off Screens
A curl cut occurs when an off-ball player cuts around a screen set by a teammate, typically using the screen to change direction and cutting toward the ball or rim.
Direct answer
What is Curl Cut: Movement Off Screens?
A curl cut occurs when an off-ball player cuts around a screen set by a teammate, typically using the screen to change direction and cutting toward the ball or rim.
Quick facts
| Category | Individual Skills |
|---|---|
| Source volume | Basketball Knowledge Vault/vol2_intermediate_building_your_game.md |
What it is
- A curl cut occurs when an off-ball player cuts around a screen set by a teammate, typically using the screen to change direction and cutting toward the ball or rim.
Why it matters
- Curl cuts are effective because the screen creates separation and the curved path often leaves the defender trailing.
- The advantage of the curl over the roll is that it creates more space for a catch-and-shoot or gives you room to face the basket and make a decision.
How it works
- Unlike a roll (where the screener cuts to the basket), a curl involves using the screen to create space for a receive-and-shoot or receive-and-drive option.
- Mechanics: approach the screen from the correct angle (using the screen's inside shoulder to shield your defender), make contact with the screener, then cut around the screen in a curved path (the "curl").
- The curl can be executed to the ball handler's side (receiving a pass for a catch-and-shoot or short-range shot) or to the weak side (curling to open space).
Bilingual terms
| English | Curl Cut: Movement Off Screens |
|---|---|
| Simplified Chinese | 绕切：借掩护的跑位 |
| Traditional Chinese | Curl Cut：借掩護卷切 |
Related concepts
Off-Ball Movement
A V-cut is an off-ball movement in which a player moves directly away from the ball (toward the baseline or sideline) and then sharply cuts back toward the ball handler or a designated area.
Defending Off-Ball Screens
When an off-ball screen is set (a screen that doesn't involve the ball handler), the two defenders involved must decide how to defend it.
Double Screen (Off-Ball)
An Off-Ball Double Screen involves two offensive players setting simultaneous screens for one cutter — not in sequence (that is a stagger), but at the same time, side by side.
Back Screens, Down Screens, Cross Screens, and Flare Screens
Beyond on-ball screens (ball handler uses the screen), off-ball screens create movement and spacing for non-ball handlers.
Basket Cut and Fill
Both actions are read-based and must be executed at the right moment.