Step through it
The cue: “Run to the screen, don't wait for it.” Only the defender who gives the read is drawn.
Read the three steps as text
- The break slows at the top of the key. 1 has the ball and 5, the trailing big, runs up behind. X1 and X5 are still getting back.
- 5 runs to the ball screen without waiting. X5 is still drifting back and has not arrived.
- 1 uses the screen and 5 rolls to the rim. X1 is stuck behind and X5 is late, so 1 passes to the roller. The cue: Run to the screen, don't wait for it.
Ask, don't tell
After the rep, ask one question: “Was the defence set when you arrived?” Judge the decision, not whether the shot went in.
Why it is in this library
Every read here passes the same tests: it is a read, not a reaction; it has few moving parts; it fits five-out spacing; it transfers as a concept; and it falls back into normal play if the read is not there. Teach the roles (screener, cutter, passer), not the positions.
Unofficial fan-created resource. The read is distilled from published coaching playbooks, curated and reviewed by Ravi Sundram, and the diagram is a schematic drawn for this site. Not affiliated with any team, coach or league.