In basketball, an “illegal screen” refers to a situation where a player sets a screen (a pick) in a way that violates the rules. A screen is a legal move when a player stands still and uses their body to block a defender, allowing a teammate to move freely. However, the screen becomes illegal if:
1. Moving Screen: The player setting the screen is moving when they make contact with the defender. To set a legal screen, the player must be stationary or have their feet set when the screen occurs.
2. Pushing or Hitting: The player setting the screen uses excessive force or physically pushes the defender away, which makes the screen illegal.
3. Blocking the Defender’s Path: If the player setting the screen does not give the defender enough time or space to avoid contact, it’s considered an illegal screen. The defender must be given a clear path to get around the screen.
4. Screening from Behind: If the player sets the screen too close to the defender, or if they try to screen from behind the defender (instead of positioning in front), it can result in an illegal screen.
An illegal screen is usually called as a personal foul on the player setting the screen, and the opposing team is awarded possession of the ball.
