An illegal screen in basketball occurs when a player sets a pick or screen in a way that violates the rules. A screen is illegal if:
1. Moving Screen: The player setting the screen must remain stationary. If the player setting the screen is moving (especially while making contact with the defender), it’s considered a moving screen. This often happens when the player initiates the screen and then moves in the direction of the defender, causing illegal contact.
2. Impediment to Defender’s Movement: If the player setting the screen doesn’t give the defender enough space to move or make contact in a way that prevents the defender from getting around the screen, it’s considered illegal. This is called “blocking” the defender’s path.
3. No Time to Adjust: The player setting the screen must give the defender enough time and space to avoid the screen or go around it. If the defender has no opportunity to adjust and avoid the contact, it can be called an illegal screen.
4. Use of Elbows or Arms: If the player setting the screen extends their arms or elbows to make contact with the defender in an unnatural or excessive manner, it can be ruled as an illegal screen.
The penalty for setting an illegal screen is typically a personal foul, and the opposing team is awarded possession of the ball.
