pick-and-roll

American  

[pik-uhn-rohl] / ˈpɪk ənˈroʊl /

noun

Basketball.

1. an offensive maneuver in which a player interposes their own body between a teammate with the ball and a defender, then cuts quickly toward the basket for a pass from that teammate.

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Usage

What does pick-and-roll mean? A pick-and-roll is an offensive play in basketball where a teammate screens off a defender and then breaks free so the ball-carrier can pass it to them.

Etymology

Origin of pick-and-roll

First recorded in 1960–65

Example Sentences

Sure, it’s basketballs to baseballs, and not a perfect comparison; just imagine how high Ohtani’s usage would be if you could spam the pick-and-roll with him.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 23, 2026

Doncic praised Hayes for his improvement in the pick-and-roll, noting how the center is finding “the right pocket” while Doncic is handling the ball.

From Los Angeles Times • Jan. 3, 2026

Kleber isn’t quite the rim protector or pick-and-roll player that Lively and Gafford are, but offers a solid inside presence.

From Seattle Times • May 28, 2024

Coach Darvin Ham was very clear Thursday that the Nuggets, in his view, are more than Jokic and Jamal Murray, a deadly pick-and-roll duo that is undoubtedly at the top of the scouting report.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 20, 2024

I know y’all think it’s time for the pick-and-roll, but 1 got something else in mind.

From "The Crossover" by Kwame Alexander