Setup and Organization

This drill is run 3-on-3 from a horns alignment with one ball handler at the top of the key and two screeners positioned at the elbows. Each offensive player is guarded live. The coach dictates the coverage or offensive read — for example, “switch everything,” “over-and-hedge,” or “flat show.” The ball handler initiates from the center, bringing the ball down to the three-point line while both elbow players sprint up to set ball screens with their inside foot on the line. The coach can call the side of the screen to be used. The screener on that side rolls hard to the rim, while the opposite screener pops to space, mirroring a true horns-set action.

Step-by-Step Progression

1. Align 3-on-3: ball handler in the middle, two screeners at the elbows, and three live defenders.
2. On the coach’s signal, the ball handler brings the ball to the three-point line; both screeners lift and prepare to set their screens.
3. The coach designates which screen the ball handler will use (offense knows, defense does not).
4. The on-ball defender fights over or executes the called coverage; the screener rolls, and the opposite screener pops.
5. Play live through the possession — including re-screens, extra passes, or pull-ups — until the defense secures the rebound or a score/foul occurs.
6. After each possession, the next unit steps in quickly to maintain pace. Optionally, allow the defense to convert immediately into a 3-on-3 transition opportunity.

Scoring

Defensive scoring system: defensive stop = 1 point, charge drawn = 2 points, steal or defensive rebound = 1 point. A foul or score by the offense ends the possession and gives the offense the next defensive turn. Optionally, if the defense scores in transition following a stop, they retain defensive position. Run for 6–8 minutes with offensive and defensive groups alternating.

Coaching Points

Emphasize communication and clarity in coverage calls — hedge, switch, drop, or blitz. Defenders must coordinate with help behind the coverage and finish each possession with a rebound. Offensively, focus on screen angles, timing, and spacing — especially how the screener transitions from setting to rolling or popping. Reinforce the decision-making of the ball handler under pressure, reading both the first and secondary defenders. The drill teaches both sides of pick-and-roll play and builds game-speed reads within a compact 3-man framework.

Variations

Adjust the clock for situational focus (e.g., 3-seconds left for switch-everything scenarios). Add re-screens, double drags, or dribble-handoff options. Switch coverage types each rep (e.g., hedge, drop, ice) to train versatility. You can also progress to a 4-on-4 version by adding a corner spacer and weak-side tag defender to extend the coverage reads.